The economy of Seattle is fueled by a mix of traditional industrial firms and “new economy” internet and technology firms, as well as service, design, and clean technology firms. The Port of Seattle, which also manages Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, is a key trading and cruise port for Asia. In terms of container capacity, it is also the eighth largest port in the United States. In 2015, its maritime cargo activities amalgamated with those of the Port of Tacoma to form the Northwest Seaport Alliance. Despite being hit by the Great Recession, Seattle has maintained a relatively solid economy and is known for its start-up enterprises, particularly in green building and clean technologies.
Seattle’s municipal administration pledged in February 2010 to become North America’s first “climate neutral” city, with a target of achieving zero net per capita greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
The business scene is still dominated by large corporations. Seattle is home to seven companies on Fortune 500’s 2022 list of the largest companies in the United States (based on total revenue): Amazon, Starbucks, freight forwarder Expeditors International of Washington, Nordstrom, forest products firm Weyerhaeuser, online travel company Expedia Group, and real-estate technology company Zillow.
