What to know when moving to Auburn, WA
Auburn at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 23.8% of residents rent and the median household income is $107,218.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to 12 nearby postsecondary institutions, including Green River College.
- The Reality Check:
- A 9.1% poverty rate amid a median rent of $1,927.
- Commute:
- 2.6% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for 147 rainy days a year, so invest in good rain gear.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Auburn has a population of 36,041, with a median household income of $107,218. The area is home to a notable 12 educational institutions, providing a wealth of options for continuing education. However, with 23.8% of residents renting, housing can be competitive, especially at a median rent of $1,927.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a high percentage of public transit users, as only 2.6% of residents utilize it.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,927, while the median home value stands at $538,800, indicating a typical housing market.
- 28.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, reflecting a moderately educated community.
- The poverty rate is 9.1%, which may affect local economic dynamics.
- Only 23.8% of the population are renters, suggesting a largely owner-occupied housing market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Washington, property crime rates have seen a significant decline of 43.1% since 2022, with a state annual rate of 1,940.4 per 100,000 residents, which is 25.4% higher than the national average. Violent crime also decreased by 26.2% during this period, with a rate of 282.2 per 100,000 residents, 13.2% lower than the national average.
- Violent crime: 282.2 per 100,000 vs. national average of 325.3
- Property crime: 1,940.4 per 100,000 vs. national average of 1,546.9
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have decreased by 46.1% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Washington).
Schools & Higher Ed
Auburn has access to a total of 12 postsecondary institutions in the nearby area, including well-known options like Green River College. Other regional institutions include Highline College and Paul Mitchell the School-Federal Way, which enhance educational opportunities for residents.
- Postsecondary institutions: 12
- With College Scorecard data: 12
- Nearby institutions include Green River College and Highline College.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Auburn experiences an annual precipitation total of 37.6 inches, with 147 rainy days each year. The wettest season is winter, which accounts for 15.7 inches of that total. This climate supports a range of outdoor activities in local parks.
- Steel Lake Park - 4.5 stars (2,857 reviews)
- Les Gove Park - 4.4 stars (2,583 reviews)
- Game Farm Park - 4.5 stars (1,989 reviews)
- Five Mile Lake Park - 4.5 stars (1,753 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.