Housing has been a little less expensive, but is starting to increase. The University District is the major neighborhood east of I-5, featuring the University of Washington, an incredible business district, and tons of student housing and businesses that cater to students. It is a busier area with a lot of activity. Further east are several neighborhoods - Laurelhurst and Windermere, both of which are located on Lake Washington, and are fairly exclusive, very expensive neighborhoods with few rentals available. Further north are Assumption and Hawthorne Hills - neighborhoods bounded by the University District, UW, and Sand Point Way.
Numerous homes have views of mountains.
Most are single family residences, but there are some rentals with prices that are a little above moderate. Housing is generally cheaper the farther north you travel, with smaller houses and yards, and some apartments. Ravenna has a splendid park, Community Center and an interesting mix of homes, ranging from UW professors to student renters. PCC is a major draw. Bryant is very similar to Ravenna, except the homes and yards are bigger and there are more single family residences and fewer rentals.