Welcome to Auburn, WA
Auburn, Washington offers the perfect blend of suburban comfort and urban accessibility, making it an increasingly popular choice for families and professionals seeking affordable living near Seattle. With its rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and strategic location between major employment centers, Auburn provides residents with small-town charm while keeping big-city opportunities within easy reach.
📍 Auburn, WA at a Glance
- Population: 87,256
- Location: 26 miles south of Seattle, nestled in the Green River Valley between Tacoma and Bellevue
- Incorporated: 1891
- Known For: Muckleshoot Casino Resort, historic downtown district, and being the “Gateway to Mt. Rainier”
🔗 Dive Deeper into Auburn
💸 Cost & Budget
🏘️ Housing & Lifestyle
🚍 Utilities & Transportation
🏙️ City Comparisons
🔍 In-Depth Relocation Overview
🗳️ Politics & Civic Life
Auburn maintains a balanced political landscape with active civic engagement. The city council operates on a non-partisan basis, focusing on practical solutions for local issues. Community involvement is strong, with numerous neighborhood associations and volunteer opportunities through organizations like the Auburn Food Bank and local environmental groups.
🚓 Crime & Safety
Auburn’s crime rates are moderate for the Puget Sound region, with the city investing heavily in public safety improvements. The Auburn Police Department maintains strong community policing programs, and most residential neighborhoods report feeling safe. Areas near downtown and the transit center see more activity, while suburban neighborhoods like Lakeland Hills enjoy lower crime rates.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
Auburn’s dining scene reflects its cultural diversity. Local favorites include Oddfellas Pub & Eatery for American fare, El Rinconsito for authentic Mexican cuisine, and Trotter’s Family Restaurant for hearty breakfasts. The Muckleshoot Casino Resort offers multiple dining options and entertainment venues. Downtown Auburn hosts seasonal events like the Auburn International Farmers Market and the annual Veterans Day Parade.
🏛️ Local Government
Auburn operates under a mayor-council form of government with seven council members representing different wards. The city provides comprehensive services including utilities, parks maintenance, and economic development programs. City Hall is known for being responsive to resident concerns, with regular town halls and online engagement platforms.
🚍 Transportation
Auburn Station serves as a major transit hub with Sounder commuter rail service to Seattle and Tacoma. King County Metro provides extensive bus routes throughout the city. Highway 167 and State Route 18 offer direct access to I-5 and I-405. The city maintains over 100 miles of sidewalks and is expanding its bicycle infrastructure, though most residents rely on personal vehicles for daily transportation.
🏘️ Housing & Real Estate
Auburn’s housing market offers more affordability compared to Seattle proper, with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. Popular neighborhoods include Lakeland Hills for newer construction, Lea Hill for established homes with larger lots, and downtown Auburn for urban-style living. The median home price hovers around $550,000, making it attractive for first-time buyers priced out of closer-in suburbs.
🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life
With over 30 parks and 247 acres of open space, Auburn provides ample outdoor recreation. Game Farm Park spans 47 acres with sports fields and wilderness trails. Roegner Park offers disc golf and hiking paths. The nearby Green River Trail provides 19 miles of paved pathways for cycling and walking. Mount Rainier National Park is just 50 miles away for weekend adventures.
💼 Job Market
Auburn’s economy benefits from its strategic location and diverse employment base. Major employers include the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe (4,500+ employees), MultiCare Auburn Medical Center, and the Auburn School District. The city’s proximity to Boeing facilities, Amazon warehouses, and the Port of Tacoma provides additional job opportunities. The median household income is approximately $75,000, with strong growth in healthcare, logistics, and retail sectors.
🧑🏫 Education
Auburn School District serves over 17,000 students across 15 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 4 comprehensive high schools. Auburn Riverside High School and Auburn Mountainview High School both offer Advanced Placement programs. Private options include Auburn Adventist Academy and several Montessori schools. Green River College’s Auburn campus provides higher education and workforce training programs.
🌞 Climate & Weather
Auburn experiences a mild Pacific Northwest climate with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average summer highs reach the mid-70s, while winter temperatures typically stay above freezing. The city receives about 40 inches of rain annually, mostly between October and May. Snow is rare but possible, and the proximity to mountains offers easy access to winter sports.
💬 Community Sentiment
Residents appreciate Auburn’s diversity, affordability, and convenient location. Many cite the strong sense of community, especially in established neighborhoods, as a major draw. Common concerns include traffic congestion during peak hours and the pace of development. Overall, locals describe Auburn as a welcoming city that maintains its small-town feel despite rapid growth.
✨ Why People Are Moving to Auburn
Auburn attracts newcomers with its winning combination of affordability, accessibility, and community spirit. Whether you’re a young family seeking good schools and safe neighborhoods, a professional looking for an easy commute to Seattle or Tacoma, or someone drawn to the outdoor recreation opportunities, Auburn delivers on multiple fronts. The city’s ongoing investments in infrastructure, parks, and downtown revitalization ensure that Auburn will continue evolving while preserving the qualities that make it a great place to call home.