Seattle is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It's situated in the state of Washington. Seattle is known for its thriving tech industry, vibrant music scene, and its significant cultural contributions. It is the region's economic, transportation, and cultural hub. Since the mid-20th century, Seattle has been a major player in influencing global technology. The city is famous for its stunning skyline, including the futuristic Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the stunning waterfront. The city is home to several Fortune 500 companies, including Amazon and Starbucks.

The United States conducts a census every 10 years, with the most recent one occurring in 2020. As of the 2010 census, Seattle had a population of 608,660, with the 2020 population estimated to be over 700,000. Seattle is recognized for its diversity, with a large LGBTQ+ population and several vibrant ethnic neighborhoods. The city is known for its religious diversity, with residents identifying as Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, and more. As a melting pot of cultures, Seattle residents speak numerous languages, including English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Tagalog, and Chinese. The city is home to the iconic Space Needle, a legacy of the 1962 World's Fair. Seattle is also known for its music scene, having birthed grunge music in the 1990s.

The City of Seattle operates under a mayor-council form of government. The mayor is elected at large and is the executive branch of the city government, responsible for enforcement of laws, administration of city departments, and budgeting. The Seattle City Council is the legislative branch and is made up of nine council members, also elected at large, who pass laws, set policies, and hold the purse strings of government. Each council member serves a four-year term. The city is also part of King County, which provides additional services such as public health and transit.

Seattle is a major economic powerhouse, boasting one of the most robust city economies in the United States. The city is a hub for trade, technology, aerospace, and commerce, with a GDP of over $300 billion. Fortune 500 companies Amazon and Starbucks are headquartered in the city, and Microsoft is located in nearby Redmond. The Port of Seattle is a major gateway for trade with Asia, handling over 26 million tons of cargo annually.

Seattle is known for its forward-thinking approach to infrastructure. The city and the wider King County region have implemented ambitious plans for transportation, utilities, and digital connectivity. Significant investments have been made in public transit, including light rail and bus systems. The city is also home to major technology companies, ensuring high-speed digital connectivity. However, like many cities, Seattle faces challenges with housing affordability and traffic congestion.