Top 5 Affordable Cities Near Seattle to Live

Home to Amazon, Microsoft, Starbucks, Expedia, and a multitude of other major companies, Seattle has become a hub for tech and business. All of these companies have attracted economic growth and talent, but it has also driven up the cost of housing—as of July 2024, the median 1-bedroom rent in Seattle was $1,990. And while that number might fluctuate a bit month to month, it is still in the country’s top 20 most expensive cities, according to Zumper data.

So, if you want to rent an apartment in a slightly more affordable place but maintain easy access to Seattle, you’re in luck. Several cities within commuting distance offer a high quality of life at a lower cost than the Emerald City. Here are our top picks for the best cities near Seattle to call home.

The best cities near Seattle

1. Tacoma
2. Federal Way
3. Renton
4. Auburn
5. Everett

1. Tacoma

• Driving distance from Seattle: 33.8 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 43 minutes
• Population: 221,776
• Median rent: $1,622, -17% lower than national average (as of July 2024)
• Best for: Families, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts
• Attractions: Point Defiance Park, Museum of Glass, Tacoma Art Museum, Tacoma Dome

Why Tacoma is a great place to live

Tacoma is a hidden gem for families and creatives alike. The city has a good school district and a strong arts scene, anchored by the Museum of Glass and the Tacoma Art Museum. Washington is full of opportunities for outdoor adventurers, and Tacoma is no different—Point Defiance Park, a 760-acre oasis with a zoo, aquarium, and endless hiking trails, allows residents to get outside without leaving the city boundaries. Plus, Tacoma’s affordability means you can enjoy all the metro area offers without breaking the bank.

2. Federal Way

• Driving distance from Seattle: 23.3 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 36 minutes
• Population: 97,863
• Median rent: $1,917, -2% lower than national average (as of July 2024)
• Best for: Families and nature lovers
• Attractions: Dash Point State Park, Wild Waves Theme & Water Park, Pacific Bonsai Museum

Why Federal Way is a great place to live

Federal Way is a fantastic choice for families who want to be close to nature. The city is home to Dash Point State Park, which offers camping, hiking, and beachcombing along the Puget Sound. Kids will love spending summer days at Wild Waves Theme & Water Park, while the Pacific Bonsai Museum is a unique cultural attraction. Federal Way’s excellent school district and tight-knit community make it a welcoming place to put down roots.

3. Renton

• Driving distance from Seattle: 12.3 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 26 minutes
• Population: 104,047
• Median rent: $2,195, +13% higher than national average (July 2024)
• Best for: Young professionals
• Attractions: Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, Henry Moses Aquatic Center, Renton History Museum, Jimi Hendrix Memorial

Why Renton is a great place to live

Renton is a great choice for young professionals who want a quick commute to Seattle without sacrificing access to the great outdoors that comes with living farther away from urban centers. The city’s crown jewel is Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, which features a swimming beach, boat launch, and several waterfront restaurants. Renton is also a must-visit destination for music lovers, as it’s the final resting place of legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix. With its thriving job market and ample green spaces, Renton offers the perfect balance of work and play.

4. Auburn 

• Driving distance from Seattle: 25.9 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 39 minutes
• Population: 80,006  
• Median rent:t: $1,795, -8% lower than national average (July 2024)
• Best for: Families and retirees
• Attractions: White River Amphitheater, Flaming Geyser State Park, Auburn Environmental Park, Muckleshoot Casino

Why Auburn is a great place to live

Auburn is a charming city that’s perfect for families and retirees alike. The Auburn School District gets a good rating from Niche—especially for its diversity—and the city is also home to Green River College, which offers continuing education classes for seniors. Auburn’s main attraction is the White River Amphitheater, which hosts big-name concerts throughout the summer. Head to Flaming Geyser State Park for a more low-key outing to see the famous “flaming geyser” powered by methane gas.

5. Everett

• Driving distance from Seattle: 35.8 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 54 minutes  
• Population: 111,337
• Median rent: $1,802, -8% lower than national average (July 2024)
• Best for: Aviation enthusiasts and beer lovers
• Attractions: Boeing Future of Flight, Funko HQ, Schack Art Center, Scuttlebutt Brewing Company

Why Everett is a great place to live 

Everett is a dream come true for aviation enthusiasts, as it’s home to the Boeing Future of Flight museum and the world’s largest building by volume. The city also has a thriving craft beer scene, anchored by Scuttlebutt Brewing Company and its nautical-themed taproom. With its larger-than-life sculptures and exclusive merchandise, Funko HQ is a must-visit destination for pop culture fans. With its unique attractions and friendly community, Everett is a city full of surprises.

Whether you’re seeking family-friendly environments, vibrant arts scenes, or outdoor adventures, these affordable cities near Seattle offer the perfect blend of convenience and quality of life to suit any lifestyle.