What to know when moving to Federal Way, WA
Federal Way at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 52.4% of residents are renters and the median household income is $70,800.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $1,650, making it a relatively affordable option in the Seattle metropolitan area.
- The Reality Check:
- 14.3% of the population lives below the poverty line, indicating some economic diversity.
- Commute:
- Only 5.7% use public transit, so plan on a car for getting around.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,650 in rent, which is common in this area.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Federal Way has a population of 52,210, with a median household income of $70,800. About 52.4% of residents are renters, indicating a balanced housing market. The education level shows that 27.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, contributing to a community with a relatively educated workforce.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a high public transit share, as only 5.7% commute by public transportation.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,650, which reflects a competitive rental market.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $428,500, which can be a significant investment.
- 27.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, illustrating a well-educated community.
- 14.3% of the population lives below the poverty line, showcasing economic diversity.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Washington state, crime rates show a downward trend in recent years, with property crime down by 43.1% since 2022.
- Violent crime: 282.2 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national rate of 325.3.
- Property crime: 1,940.4 per 100,000 residents, higher than the national average of 1,546.9.
- Notable trend: The homicide rate has decreased by 46.1% since 2022, with a current rate of 2.8 per 100,000 residents.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Washington).
Schools & Higher Ed
Federal Way has access to a total of 14 postsecondary institutions, with 4 located in King County and 10 in nearby Pierce County.
- Paul Mitchell the School-Federal Way
- Green River College (Auburn)
- Highline College (Des Moines)
- Pima Medical Institute-Renton (Renton)
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
King County experiences an annual precipitation of 37.6 inches over approximately 147 rainy days. Rain is more frequent in the fall and winter seasons, with 11.7 inches and 15.7 inches, respectively.
- Point Defiance Park - 4.7 stars (16,581 reviews)
- LeMay - America's Car Museum - 4.7 stars (4,476 reviews)
- Museum of Glass - 4.6 stars (4,290 reviews)
- Dash Point State Park - 4.5 stars (3,835 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places API.