Auburn and Bellevue sit on opposite ends of the Eastside, each offering retirees a blend of suburban calm and access to urban perks. For seniors looking to downsize or enjoy a quieter pace, Auburn’s spread‑out neighborhoods and affordable housing present a tempting alternative to Bellevue’s upscale, high‑density environment. The comparison below dives into the hard facts—home prices, employment, safety, and more—to help you decide which city fits your retirement lifestyle.
We’ve lined up the numbers and lived‑in insights side by side, so you can see how each city stacks up without the fluff. Whether you’re a fixed‑income retiree, a retired professional, or someone looking for a vibrant community, this guide will point you straight to the right choice.
Cost of Living
Median home prices in Auburn hover around $650,000, making it roughly 50% cheaper than Bellevue’s $1.3 million median. Rent for a one‑bedroom apartment is about $1,500 in Auburn compared to $2,000 in Bellevue. Median household income is $65,000 in Auburn versus $110,000 in Bellevue, which keeps the cost of living index lower in Auburn at 150 versus Bellevue’s 200.
The tax burden is lighter in Auburn; state income tax is the same but property taxes average 1.08% of home value compared to 1.20% in Bellevue. Utilities and grocery costs also trend slightly lower in Auburn. For retirees on a fixed budget, Auburn offers more purchase power and lower monthly expenses.
| Metric | Auburn | Bellevue |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $650,000 | $1,300,000 |
| Median Rent (1‑Bed) | $1,500 | $2,000 |
| Median Household Income | $65,000 | $110,000 |
| Cost of Living Index | 150 | 200 |
Job Market & Economy
Auburn’s employment scene is anchored by manufacturing, healthcare (Auburn‑South Medical Center), and light industry. Unemployment sits around 3.5%, slightly lower than the regional average, but most jobs require commuting into Seattle or Bellevue via I‑5 or SR‑520.
Bellevue thrives as a tech hub, hosting Microsoft, Amazon, and many startups; the local unemployment rate is 3.0%. Remote work opportunities are plentiful, and the city’s infrastructure supports high‑speed connectivity, making it a magnet for retirees who want to stay digitally engaged.
Neighborhoods
Auburn’s South Auburn (ZIP 98068) offers single‑family homes at $600–$750k with walk scores around 30. Auburn Highlands, a newer subdivision, features newer 3‑bed homes priced $700–$900k and a walk score of 45. Downtown Auburn, though smaller, boasts a community feel and homes priced $650–$850k.
Bellevue’s Downtown has luxury condos and apartments ranging $1.2–$1.8M, walk score 90, and close proximity to the Bellevue Square mall. Ivy Green, a historic district, offers single‑family homes at $1.5–$2M and a walk score of 60. The Green Lake area, near the lake and parks, has homes $1.4–$1.7M and a walk score 70.
Safety
Auburn’s crime index is 40 per 100k residents, with most incidents being property crimes. Violent crime is low, at 5 per 100k, and neighborhoods like South Auburn are considered safe for walkers. Residents should still exercise caution in high‑traffic zones near the I‑5 corridor.
Bellevue’s crime rate is 60 per 100k, higher than Auburn, with a slightly elevated violent crime rate of 8 per 100k. Downtown and East Bellevue have pockets of higher activity, especially near nightlife spots. Neighborhoods such as Ivy Green and Green Lake maintain lower rates and are favored by families.
Schools
Auburn School District scores 8/10 on GreatSchools, with top public schools like Auburn High (A‑grade) and Auburn Middle. Private options include Saint Mary’s Catholic Elementary (9/10) and St. Anthony’s Catholic School.
Bellevue School District rates 9/10, featuring Bellevue High (A) and Mercer Island High. Private schools such as Bellevue Christian School (8/10) and The University Prep (8/10) are also options. For retirees valuing strong education for grandchildren, Bellevue edges Auburn.
Lifestyle & Things to Do
Auburn offers parks like Auburn Creek Trail and City Park, along with community events at the Auburn Community Center. Dining is modest, with local spots such as The Keg and the Auburn Brewing Company. The climate remains mild, with average highs of 70°F in summer and 30°F in winter.
Bellevue delivers a bustling downtown, with restaurants like The London Plane and Bar 7, and cultural venues such as the Bellevue Arts Museum. Green Lake Park offers a scenic walk around the water, and the city’s weather is comparable to Auburn, staying in the 70–30°F range.
The Verdict
If you prioritize lower housing costs, less expensive living, and a quieter, suburban atmosphere, Auburn is the clear winner for retirees on a fixed income or those who prefer spacious homes and a lower density lifestyle.
For retirees who want proximity to tech companies, upscale dining, and higher-quality public schools (useful for grandchildren or personal enrichment), Bellevue wins, especially if the higher cost is justified by the amenities and job opportunities.
Ultimately, Auburn suits the budget‑conscious, low‑density retiree; Bellevue suits the affluent retiree who values urban convenience and higher-end lifestyle options.
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Explore neighborhood-by-neighborhood data on WYLT: Auburn, WA (Auburn) · Bellevue, WA (Bellevue).
