Living in Auburn, WA: Top Reasons to Move to This Seattle Suburb
Living in Auburn, WA: Top Reasons to Move to This Seattle Suburb
If you’re thinking about living in Auburn, Washington, you’re not alone. 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.
What sets Auburn apart is its versatility. Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant downtown district, peaceful suburban neighborhoods, or the rolling farmland at the city’s edge, living in Auburn delivers a lifestyle that fits just about everyone. 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.
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. This variety makes it an appealing destination for first-time buyers, families, downsizers, and investors alike.
According to Redfin, 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.
Auburn vs. Seattle Real Estate Market: Key Comparison
If you’re weighing your options between living in 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 This Matters
If you’re priced out of Seattle or looking for more home for your money, living in 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.
Community Overview: What It’s Like Living in Auburn
Living 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 heart of the city is Historic Downtown Auburn, which has seen significant revitalization in recent years. Once primarily an industrial and railroad hub, downtown has transformed into a vibrant urban village. Today, you’ll find charming coffee shops, family-run restaurants, locally owned boutiques, and a growing brewery scene. Popular community events 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. It 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.
Living in Auburn also means having access to nature and green space at every turn. 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. It’s 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. 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 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.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Living in Auburn 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. This beautiful, open-air track hosts live racing from spring through fall and offers a fun, social atmosphere for families, couples, and groups of friends. 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.
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.
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.
Schools and Education in Auburn
For families considering living in Auburn, 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
Transportation and Commuting
One of the major perks of living in Auburn is its excellent commuter access. Strategically located in South King County, Auburn connects easily to regional job centers via State Route 167, State Route 18, and Interstate 5. These major highways make it simple to reach Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, and even the Eastside tech corridor in under an hour, depending on traffic.
For those looking to avoid freeway congestion, 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 quieter suburban lifestyle without giving up quick city access.
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. 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 travelers, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is just a 20-minute drive from most Auburn neighborhoods, offering fast access to domestic and international flights.
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 |
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.
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