Living in Auburn, WA: Top Reasons to Move to This Seattle Suburb, The Cost Of Living, & Whether YOU Should Move Here!

Living in Auburn, WA: Top Reasons to Move to This Seattle Suburb, The Cost Of Living, & Whether YOU Should Move Here!

As a PNW native and Realtor, I’ve worked in Auburn for years & reveal what it’s like to live in Auburn, WA, the cost of living, & whether you should move here!

I was just driving around the neighborhood, after arriving early to a listing appointment (Traffic was Good!) so I thought I would make a little video to give you an idea of what some of the Auburn neighborhoods are like, so you could get an idea for how far your money will go in this south Seattle suburb, and decide if THIS is the place you want to call home.

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What’s It Like Living in Auburn, WA?

Are you curious about what it’s really like to living Auburn, Washington?

Whether you’re relocating from Seattle, downsizing into the suburbs, or buying your first home, Auburn has a lot to offer—but it’s not perfect.

In the video below, I take you on a guided tour of some of Auburn’s suburbs and discuss the Pros and Cons of Auburn, WA as a place to live, so you can get a feel for the lifestyle, housing market, and community vibe before you decide to move here.

👇 Watch the video now to learn:

• What homes cost in Auburn compared to Seattle
• The best neighborhoods for families (hello, Lakeland Hills!)
• What the commute is like using Highway 167 or the Sounder Train
• The real deal on Auburn’s schools, traffic, and amenities
• Whether Auburn might be the right place for you

📲 Pro Tip: If you’re already thinking about moving to Auburn, fill out this form to contact me, and I’ll help you get started with a personalized home search—no pressure, just real answers.

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Auburn Reviews: What’s It Really Like Living in Auburn, WA?

If you’re considering moving to Auburn, Washington, chances are you’ve searched for “Auburn Reviews” to get an inside look at what it’s really like to live here.

The good news? You’re not alone—and you’ve come to the right place.

As a local Realtor helping people buy and sell homes in Auburn for years, I’ve seen the good, the great, and the occasional challenge that comes with life in this growing South King County suburb.

To help you decide if Auburn is right for you, I’ve rounded up some common feedback we hear from residents, clients, and online reviews.

What People Love About Auburn:

• Affordability: Compared to Seattle and Bellevue, Auburn’s housing prices are much more approachable. Many families and first-time buyers say Auburn was the only place they could actually buy without breaking the bank.
• Location: Easy access to I-5, Highway 167, and the public transportation makes commuting doable, especially for those working in Seattle, Tacoma, or Renton.
• Community Feel: Locals describe Auburn as “down-to-earth,” “family-friendly,” and “not too flashy, but safe and real.”

Common Complaints About Auburn:

• Traffic on 167: If you’re commuting during rush hour, you’ll hear reviews of frustration with bottlenecks and backups—especially near the 18 interchange.
• Mixed School Ratings: Depending on the neighborhood, schools can range from top-tier to underwhelming. Parents often mention the importance of doing research before choosing where to live.

And if you’re here to do that research, I want to make it easy for you, so I’ve arranged this article to be skimable, full of my personal experiences, and easy for you to find what you’re looking for!

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What To Know Before You Decide To Move To Auburn, WA

If you’re thinking about living in Auburn, Washington, you’re not alone.

Although many chalk it up as being rural and “out in the boonies,” this scenic city in the Green River Valley has become one of the Seattle metro area’s most desirable locations.

With over 87,000 residents, Auburn offers a perfect balance of community charm, outdoor recreation, and access to major job hubs like Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellevue.

Located just 28 miles south of Seattle and 15 miles north of Tacoma, it’s an ideal spot for commuters who want more space without sacrificing convenience.   

This would be a great place to live if you and your spouse worked in Seattle, Bellevue and/or Tacoma.  It’s a nice “split the difference location” for couples that have to go in opposite directions for their drives to work. 

What sets Auburn apart is its versatility.

Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant downtown district, peaceful suburban neighborhoods and golf-course communities, or the rolling farmland at the city’s edge, living in Auburn delivers a lifestyle that fits just about everyone. 

Although I still feel like Auburn is stigmatized as being semi-farmland, there are golf-course housing communities here that are quite sophisticated. 

It’s a place where you can catch a concert at the casino, enjoy a quiet afternoon on the trail, or shop your favorite name-brand stores—all in the same weekend. Add in affordable home prices and great transportation options, and it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing to make a living in Auburn their home.

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Real Estate Market in Auburn

Living in Auburn means tapping into one of South King County’s most dynamic and accessible real estate markets.

Auburn offers a wide range of housing options, including established single-family homes, modern townhomes, low-maintenance condominiums, and growing new construction developments.

If you’re thinking about new construction, MainVue homes is a well-known builder in this area and they have a whole neighborhood dedicated to showcasing their model homes.  You can visit to learn which floorplan you like best and then find out where it is being built nearby.

This variety of home types and price points makes it an appealing destination for first-time buyers, families, downsizers, and investors alike.

New Construction Homes In Auburn, WA

I just visited the MainVue World Of Model Homes on my way back from my Auburn listing appointment, and I took a few pictures and videos.  What do you think:

Average Home Prices In Auburn, WA

According to Northwest MLS statistics, the median home price in Auburn as of early 2025 is approximately $550,000.

That’s notably more affordable than neighboring communities like Seattle (median ~$825,000) or Bellevue (median ~$1.3 million), offering more space and value for homebuyers looking to stay within commuting distance of major employment centers.

The Auburn housing market has experienced strong, steady appreciation over the past decade. Since 2015, home values in Auburn have increased by nearly 70%, reflecting growing demand and continued investment in the area. The city proved resilient during past downturns, including the 2008 housing crash, and has continued to recover thanks to its strategic location and community development.

Rental properties also play a key role in Auburn’s real estate landscape. According to RentCafe, the average rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in Auburn is around $2,300/month, making the area attractive for both renters and landlords. Vacancy rates remain low, and with strong tenant demand, investors are increasingly targeting Auburn for long-term rental opportunities.

Washington State has passed a new limit on rental price increases.  Landlords can increase rent by ~7% a year.  Usually, rents don’t go up that much annually (If they did, I’d probably be buying more rental property). But it’s something to keep an eye on if you plan on investing in real estate in this area, or renting before you buy here. 

Auburn vs. Seattle Real Estate Market: Key Comparison

If you’re trying to decide where to live and weighing your options between Auburn and living in Seattle, here’s a side-by-side comparison of essential real estate and lifestyle metrics.

Metric	Auburn, WA	Seattle, WA
Median Home Price	$550,000	$825,000
Average Rent (3-bedroom)	$2,300/month	$3,200/month
Commute to Downtown Seattle	~40 minutes (via I-5 or Sounder)	N/A (Already in city)
School District Rating	Auburn SD: Avg 6–7/10 (GreatSchools.org)	Seattle SD: Mixed, varies by school
Population (2023 est.)	~87,000	~750,000
Vibe & Density	Suburban, spacious	Urban, dense
New Construction Availability	High – Many developments	Limited due to density constraints
Access to Nature	Excellent – Trails, rivers, parks	Urban parks, but more limited
Real Estate Investment Potential	Strong rental demand + affordability	High value, but expensive entry

Why The Cost Of Living In Auburn, WA Matters To You…

Western Washington’s cost of living is extremely high.  We pay $1.10 per gallon in gas taxes, for crying out loud!

So, if you’re priced out of living in the city of Seattle or looking for more home for your money, Auburn offers a compelling alternative.

You’ll enjoy a quieter, more residential environment with good schools, plenty of green space, and commuter access via major highways and the Sounder Train.

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The Cost Of Living in Auburn – What To The Statistics Tell Us?

Now, if you’ve been SHOCKED by the housing prices here in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, you’re probably asking yourself whether you can afford to buy a home here. 

You may be wondering: Is the cost of living in Auburn higher or lower than the national average?

Let’s break down the housing costs here.

Auburn’s cost of living index is typically slightly higher than the national average, but noticeably lower than Seattle or Bellevue, which are among the most expensive cities in Washington State.

While the national cost of living index is set at 100, Auburn usually lands around 115–120, depending on fluctuations in housing and transportation costs.

By contrast, Seattle often scores around 165, and Bellevue can push even higher, especially due to premium housing prices.  (Bellevue is the most expensive area to live in the state!)

When it comes to the average cost of housing, the median home price in Auburn is around $525,000, which is substantially lower than Bellevue’s median (around $1.3 million) and Seattle’s median (roughly $850,000). That makes Auburn an attractive option for buyers who want to stay within King County but need something more budget-friendly.

Other cost categories like groceries, utilities, and healthcare tend to hover near the national average, so while you may pay a bit more for housing compared to some smaller towns, you’re still getting solid value—especially when you factor in access to transit, job markets, and outdoor amenities.

If you’re analyzing cost of living data to make your decision about where to live next, Auburn deserves a spot on your radar. It offers a strong balance between affordability and access, especially when compared to larger neighboring cities.

Remember, if you’re looking for a home for sale in Auburn, WA

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How Do Income Levels in Auburn Compare to the National Average?

When evaluating the cost of living index, it’s important to look at income levels as well.

According to recent cost of living data, the median household income in Auburn, WA is approximately $78,000, which is higher than the national average, currently estimated at around $74,000.

When we first moved the Pacific Northwest (in 2006) my husband was making $70K per year and we were able to afford a condo we bought for $285K.  We sold it 10 years later for $350K.  Experts say you can afford a house that is ~3x your annual income, (which would have been $210K), so we stretched a little beyond that to get our foot in the door with our first home. 

While Auburn residents may pay slightly more in housing and transportation than people living in more rural areas, the higher-than-average median income helps offset those expenses.

Compared to Seattle and Bellevue—where median incomes soar into the six-figure range—the earning potential in Auburn is solid but more moderate, which is reflected in the area’s more affordable housing and services.  Many people who live here commute to the “big cities” for work.

Overall, income levels in Auburn are well-aligned with the city’s cost structure, making it a stable and accessible choice for working families, remote professionals, and first-time home buyers alike.

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Community Overview: What It’s Like Living in Auburn

Being in Auburn means being part of a city full of character-rich neighborhoods, each offering its own unique vibe, history, and lifestyle.

Whether you’re drawn to:

• Quiet cul-de-sacs with views of Mount Rainier,
• Modern planned communities with walkable amenities, or
• Tree-lined streets near downtown,

…Auburn has a neighborhood for every type of buyer.  

The good news is that there are lots of fun things to do in Auburn.

The heart of the city is Historic Downtown Auburn, which has seen significant revitalization in recent years.

Once primarily an industrial and railroad hub, the downtown has transformed into a vibrant urban village and there is a supportive community of business owners there encouraging the community to shop locally!

Today, you’ll find charming coffee shops, family-run restaurants, locally owned boutiques, and a growing brewery scene. 

Popular community events around Auburn like the Auburn Farmers Market, Art Walk, and Veterans Day Parade bring the area to life throughout the year, making it a welcoming spot for residents and visitors alike.

Just a few minutes away, The Outlet Collection Seattle (formerly known as SuperMall) stands as one of the largest outlet malls in the Pacific Northwest and has goods and services of all kinds! (There’s another huge outlet mall north of Seattle in Marysville.)

The Outlet Collection Super Mall features over 130 brand-name stores including Nike, Nordstrom Rack, and H&M, along with a variety of fast-casual and sit-down restaurants. The mall also houses a movie theater, kids’ play areas, and hosts seasonal events, making it a favorite weekend destination for families.

Another benefit of the Auburn lifestyle is having access to nature and green space at every turn.  There are lots of outdoor activities here to enjoy!

The city is home to more than 30 public parks, athletic fields, and natural open spaces that support an active and outdoor lifestyle.

• Les Gove Park is one of Auburn’s crown jewels. Centrally located, it features a splash pad, expansive playground, outdoor basketball courts, skate park, walking trails, picnic areas, and a community center offering programs for youth and seniors alike. When my kids were young, I used to love taking them to parks with a splash pad.  There was no risk of drowning, I didn’t have to get in the water to supervise them, and it’s generally too cool around here for pool water to really heat up, so the splash pads are a nice place for watery fun without the maintenance and expense of heating a pool! Les Grove Park is also home to the White River Valley Museum and the Auburn Senior Activity Center, creating a true hub of multigenerational activity.
• Game Farm Park is another resident favorite, with sports fields, picnic shelters, and scenic walking paths along the White River.
• For those who love water activities, the Green River and White River offer opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and riverside hikes.
  I did a postcard mailing project for one of my home buyer clients, to find a potential seller of a home along green river where he could go fishing in his back yard! (And yes, we did get a bite!)
• Trails like the Auburn Environmental Park Trail provide birdwatching and nature viewing right in the heart of the city.
• Golfers will enjoy the scenic Auburn Golf Course, an 18-hole public course with lush fairways and mountain views.

Neighborhoods in Auburn like Lakeland Hills, Lea Hill, West Hill, and Jensen Park offer a wide range of housing styles and prices, from luxury homes with panoramic views to cozy townhomes close to schools and shopping.

Many neighborhoods include pocket parks, trails, and community spaces, helping residents feel connected and fostering a strong sense of neighborhood pride.

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Nearby Attractions and Activities

Spending time in the Auburn area puts you right in the middle of some of the most exciting attractions and destinations in the Puget Sound region.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, live entertainment, or family-friendly weekend plans, Auburn’s central location gives you convenient access to it all—without having to drive far from home.

Here are some of the top attractions you’ll enjoy as part of the Auburn lifestyle:

Emerald Downs Racetrack

Located right in Auburn, Emerald Downs is one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier thoroughbred racing venues.

Although I don’t bet on the ponies, I love coming here with my family and letting them get up close to those big powerful animals.  You can talk to owners in the paddock as you watch the racers come out.  If you were ever a horse-crazy girl, like I was, or are a fan of reading Dick Francis’ horse racing mysteries, you won’t want to miss this family-friendly adventure spot!

This beautiful, open-air track hosts live horse racing from spring through fall and offers a fun, social atmosphere for families, couples, and groups of friends.

One of my clients was invited here to see a Corgi race (yes, those cute little dogs).  I think it was an exhibition race in between the horse racing events.  They had a blast, but they said it was a Looong drive down from Edmonds, WA where they live.

Beyond just the races, Emerald Downs features food trucks, beer gardens, themed event days, and even fireworks shows. Whether you’re a horse racing fan or simply want a unique night out, this is a local gem that adds a lively flair to living in Auburn.

Golfing in Auburn, Washington

The golf course community near the Green River in Auburn, Washington, is called the Auburn Golf Course. This public 18-hole facility is situated on 150 acres along the Green River and offers scenic views from several hillside holes. The course is a par 71 and stretches over 6,314 yards from the back tees.

It features over 20 bunkers, two ponds with fountains, and a waterfall, providing a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers. 

The Auburn Golf Course is located at 29630 Green River Rd SE, Auburn, WA 98092. In addition to the golf course, the facility includes a pro shop, equipment and power cart rentals, professional instruction and lessons, tournaments and leagues, and youth activities. The clubhouse, built in 2007, houses a 150-seat banquet and meeting facility, a 110-seat full-service restaurant, and a pro shop.

While the Auburn Golf Course itself is a public facility and not a private residential community, the surrounding area offers a variety of housing options that provide convenient access to the course and the natural beauty of the Green River. If you’re interested in exploring homes near the Auburn Golf Course, feel free to reach out, and I can provide you with more information on available properties in the area.

Pacific Raceways

Just a short drive away in Kent, Pacific Raceways is a must-visit for motorsports enthusiasts. This multi-purpose racing complex features a drag strip, road course, and off-road track that host everything from NHRA drag racing to car shows and driver education events. Car clubs, racing fans, and thrill-seekers come from across the state to experience the track. It’s a high-octane entertainment option close to home for Auburn residents.

Mount Rainier National Park

One of Washington’s most iconic natural landmarks, Mount Rainier National Park is just over an hour’s drive southeast of Auburn.

With its towering 14,410-foot peak, the park is a haven for hikers, climbers, campers, and nature lovers. In warmer months, explore hundreds of miles of scenic trails, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. In the winter, enjoy snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, and breathtaking views of snow-covered forests. For those living in Auburn, the ability to escape to such natural beauty on a day trip is a unique advantage.

Although Mount Rainier is beautiful, I must caution you to be careful hiking there.  Especially if you go snow hiking, off trail or anything extreme or risky.  When I was in high school, some of my friends from the cross-country team went hiking there, and one of them died, falling off a cliff. 

It’s safe, and beautiful and I go with my kids and mother to look at the wildflowers.  We have 50-something friends from church who have summited it.  So I don’t want to put you off of it altogether… just be prudent. 

Muckleshoot Casino Resort

Located right in Auburn, the Muckleshoot Casino Resort is a top entertainment destination in the region. Operated by the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, the casino features thousands of slot machines, table games, poker rooms, and an expansive selection of dining options—from quick bites to upscale restaurants. Recently expanded, the resort also includes a luxurious hotel and event center, hosting major concerts, comedy acts, and live entertainment. It’s a one-stop destination for nightlife, gaming, and weekend getaways—all just minutes from home.

Other Popular Destinations Near Auburn:

• Soos Creek Botanical Garden & Heritage Center – A beautifully maintained public garden located just north of Auburn, offering walking trails and plant collections in a serene setting.
• Wild Waves Theme & Water Park – Located in nearby Federal Way, this amusement park is a summertime favorite for families, featuring water slides, roller coasters, and family rides.
• Washington State Fairgrounds in Puyallup – Home to the biggest fair in the state, as well as year-round expos, concerts, and seasonal festivals like Oktoberfest and the Spring Fair.

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Schools and Education in Auburn

For families considering making their homes in Auburn, good schools and education is often a top priority—and Auburn delivers with a solid public school system, a respected community college, and a variety of educational programs for students of all ages.

Auburn School District Overview

The Auburn School District (ASD) serves more than 17,000 students across 22 schools, including 15 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 3 high schools. The district is known for its focus on equity, inclusion, and preparing students for college and careers. The district boundaries span not only the city of Auburn but also parts of neighboring communities such as Kent, Pacific, and Algona.

Auburn School District – Top-Rated Public Schools (Niche.com, 2025)

School Name	Grade Levels	Niche Grade	Highlights
Lakeland Hills Elementary	K–5	A	Excellent academics, strong parental involvement, safe environment
Auburn Riverside High School	9–12	B+	High graduation rate, AP courses, strong athletics and extracurriculars
Arthur Jacobsen Elementary	K–5	B+	Supportive staff, great student-teacher ratio, high parent satisfaction
Chinook Elementary School	K–5	B	Diverse school community with good academic progress
Rainier Middle School	6–8	B	Strong in arts and technology; diverse student body
Auburn High School	9–12	B-	Career & technical education focus, wide range of electives
Gildo Rey Elementary	K–5	B-	Safe and welcoming environment, growing academic programs
Pioneer Elementary School	K–5	B-	Emphasis on literacy and early learning development

Many Auburn schools offer STEM programs, dual-language immersion options, and career and technical education (CTE) pathways. The district also partners with local employers and colleges to support workforce readiness and internships for upper-grade students.

Higher Education: Green River College

In addition to K–12 education, living in Auburn offers access to a well-regarded post-secondary institution: Green River College. Located on a forested 180-acre campus in the Lea Hill neighborhood, Green River serves over 8,000 students annually, including a strong population of international students from more than 60 countries.

Key offerings at Green River College include:

• Associate Degrees: University transfer programs in arts, sciences, and business
• Professional & Technical Programs: Nursing, aviation, information technology, and more
• Bachelor’s Degrees: Applied management, IT networking, and aeronautical science
• Running Start: High school juniors and seniors can earn college credits tuition-free

Green River is consistently ranked among the top two-year colleges in Washington State for student support and transfer success, with many students moving on to institutions like the University of Washington, WSU, and Central Washington University.

Additional Educational Resources in Auburn

Libraries: Auburn Public Library and nearby branches offer tutoring, literacy programs, and after-school enrichment

Auburn Virtual Learning: Flexible, online learning options for K–12 students

Auburn School District’s Early Learning Center: Preschool and early childhood programs

Multilingual Education: Support for students speaking over 80 languages district-wide

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Transportation and Commuting

One of the major perks of living in Auburn is its excellent commuter access. Public transportation is plentiful, making it easy to get around Auburn.

Strategically located in South King County, Auburn connects easily to regional job centers via State Route 167, State Route 18, and Interstate 5, the State of Washington’s major International North-South freeway.

These major highways make it simple to reach Seattle, Bellevue and Redmond (The East Side “Tech Corridor,” and even Tacoma, in under an hour, depending on traffic.

This week, it took me about an hour and 15 minutes to drive north to the Snohomish county line, during rush hour (started heading north about 4:30 PM).   

From downtown Seattle, at lunch time, my drive was about 45 minutes.  Traffic wasn’t too bad in either direction or at either time of day. 

For those looking to avoid freeway congestion, you can also take the train!  (That’s right… choo, choo!)

The Auburn Sounder Station offers direct commuter rail service to both downtown Seattle and Tacoma. With free parking and a comfortable ride, the Sounder Train is a popular option for professionals seeking a hand-free ride to the big city.

King County Metro Transit also operates an extensive network of local and regional bus routes throughout Auburn and neighboring cities like Kent, Federal Way, and Renton, making the bus an easy way to get around Auburn and surrounding municipalities.

Multiple park-and-ride lots around the city make it easy to blend driving and transit, especially for commuters headed into Seattle.

And for frequent fliers, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is just a 20-minute drive from most Auburn neighborhoods, offering fast access to domestic and international flights.

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Pros and Cons of Living in Auburn

Pros	Cons
More affordable home prices than Seattle, Bellevue, or Kirkland	Higher property crime rate in some neighborhoods (check local stats)
Easy commuter access via SR-167, SR-18, I-5, and the Sounder Train	Traffic congestion during peak hours on major routes
Diverse housing options (single-family, condos, new construction)	Limited nightlife compared to Seattle or Tacoma
Close to outdoor recreation (Green River, Mount Rainier, local parks)	Weather is gray and rainy much of the year (typical for the region)
Strong sense of community with local events and public services	Public schools are improving, but vary by neighborhood
Proximity to SEA Airport (about 20 minutes away)	Some industrial areas near downtown may lack residential appeal
Growing economy and job access to Boeing, Amazon, and local employers	Downtown still in transition, with some underdeveloped sections
Cultural diversity and inclusive community vibe	Limited upscale shopping/dining compared to larger cities

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Ready To Make Auburn Your Home?

Living in Auburn offers the perfect balance of affordability, accessibility, and lifestyle—making it one of the Seattle area’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re drawn to its commuter-friendly location, excellent outdoor recreation, diverse neighborhoods, or growing real estate opportunities, Auburn is a city with something for everyone.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Auburn, don’t navigate the market alone. I’m Emily Cressey with HomePro Associates, and I specialize in helping buyers find the perfect home and sellers maximize their property’s value.

Call or text me at (206) 578-3438 to schedule your personalized consultation. Whether you’re just starting your home search or you want a professional analysis of your property’s worth, I’m here to help every step of the way.

Want to stay in the know? For more market updates, home tours, and expert real estate tips, be sure to check out our YouTube channel and follow along as we cover the latest trends in the Seattle-area housing market.

Let’s make your next move a smart one—right here in beautiful Auburn, Washington.