Let the numbers do the talking.
Auburn, WA vs Seattle, WA
Auburn, WA vs Seattle, WA: What the data shows
Auburn, WA is in Auburn, WA while Seattle, WA is in Seattle, WA — both in the same state. On home prices, Auburn, WA is the more affordable option at $354,900 median — $418,300 less than Seattle, WA's $773,200. WYLT rates Auburn, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Seattle, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Auburn, WA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Auburn, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Seattle, WA has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Auburn, WA has Low flood risk and Seattle, WA has Low flood risk.
Seattle, WA is the more walkable neighborhood. Auburn, WA scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Seattle, WA's 90/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, Seattle, WA has the higher school rating — Auburn, WA rates 6.5/10 and Seattle, WA rates 7.8/10.
| Category | Auburn, WA | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $355K ✓ Lower price | $773K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $68K | $111K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 | 90/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 89/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.5/10 | 7.8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for good schoolsCar‑dependent commutersThose prioritizing low flood risk | Young professionalsRemote workersTransit riders |
Bottom line
If you need decent schools and a quiet, car‑centric life and can handle a higher price, Auburn is the more sensible choice. If you value walkability, transit access, and city buzz and can afford the steep cost, downtown Seattle fits best.
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