Let the numbers do the talking.
Auburn, WA vs Vancouver, WA
Auburn, WA vs Vancouver, WA: What the data shows
Auburn, WA is in Auburn, WA while Vancouver, WA is in Vancouver, WA — both in the same state. On home prices, Auburn, WA is the more affordable option at $354,900 median — $58,400 less than Vancouver, WA's $413,300. WYLT rates Auburn, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Vancouver, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Auburn, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Vancouver, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Auburn, WA has Low flood risk and Vancouver, WA has Low flood risk.
Vancouver, WA is the more walkable neighborhood. Auburn, WA scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Vancouver, WA's 31/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Vancouver, WA has the higher school rating — Auburn, WA rates 6.5/10 and Vancouver, WA rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Auburn, WA | Vancouver, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $355K ✓ Lower price | $413K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $68K ✓ Higher income | $62K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 | 31/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 17/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 57/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 45 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.5/10 | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for good schoolsCar‑dependent commutersThose prioritizing low flood risk | Families seeking good schools on a budgetPeople willing to commute to Seattle by carOutdoor lovers who enjoy riverfront and park access |
Bottom line
For families prioritizing decent schools and a quiet environment, Auburn might be a slightly more suitable option, despite its drawbacks. However, for individuals who value walkability or want to avoid the high home price to income ratio, Vancouver could be a more practical choice. Ultimately, both neighborhoods are trade-offs, and the decision depends on what matters most to you.
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