Auburn WA

Auburn, Washington – Nestled between the bustling cities of Seattle and Tacoma, Auburn offers a refreshing balance of urban convenience and small-town charm. With its rich heritage, scenic landscapes, and a strong sense of community, Auburn is a place where history meets modern living. Whether you're exploring the beautiful Green River, attending a show at the historic Auburn Avenue Theater, or cheering at a high-speed race at the Emerald Downs racetrack, this city welcomes you with open arms and countless possibilities.

• Population: ~85,000
• Weather: Mild and temperate (35–80°F); rainy winters and pleasant, dry summers.
• Places To Visit: Emerald Downs, Game Farm Park, Soos Creek Botanical Garden, White River Valley Museum, Muckleshoot Casino Resort.
• Top Activities: Hiking along the Interurban Trail, enjoying live performances, fishing in the Green River, attending city festivals, exploring local shops and eateries downtown.
• Famous Food: Pacific Northwest seafood at Sun Break Café, hearty breakfast at Longhorn Barbecue, and locally-loved pastries from Sweet & Savory Pie Company.

Auburn, WA, located in the heart of the Seattle metropolitan area, is home to a diverse economy fueled by manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, retail, and education. With its growing population and access to major transportation hubs, Auburn offers a variety of career opportunities for skilled professionals and entry-level workers alike. Below are some of the top jobs in the city.

Top 5 Jobs in Auburn, WA

Auburn, Washington might be smaller than Seattle, but it's packed with spots where students can unwind, have fun, and take a break from school stress. Whether you're into the outdoors, grabbing a snack, or exploring local culture, Auburn has chill vibes waiting for you.

Game Farm Park – This local favorite is perfect for lazy afternoons or group outings. You can walk along the trails, have a picnic with friends, or just lie back and chill in the open fields. It’s peaceful but never boring.

The Outlet Collection Seattle – More than a shopping center, this spot is great for spending a few hours browsing stores, grabbing a smoothie, or visiting the arcade with friends. Plus, it's indoors—so rainy days are no problem.

Les Gove Park – Looking to be outside but stay close to the heart of the city? This park has sports courts, open grassy areas, and even a cool multipurpose center if you’re into arts or cultural events. It’s a low-key, go-to place for students nearby.

Zola’s Cafe – Need a cozy corner to study or just hang out? This local coffee shop has comfy seating, friendly vibes, and great drinks. Plus, they often have open mic nights or live music—so there's always something going on.

Iron Horse Casino – A fun place for students over 18 who want to try something different. It features events, music, and good food—all in a lively atmosphere. Even if you’re not gambling, it's a cool place to relax and people-watch.

Brannan Park – If simple and quiet is more your speed, you’ll love this hidden gem. Pack a blanket, grab takeout, and chill on the grass under the trees. Sometimes the best way to recharge is by doing absolutely nothing.

Neely Mansion – Want a sprinkle of history with your hangout? This beautifully restored mansion offers tours and community events. It’s a cool way to connect with Auburn’s local past—and honestly, it makes a great Instagram backdrop too.

Auburn proves that you don’t need a big city to have big fun. Whether you're hitting the mall, sipping lattes, or wandering through parks, there are plenty of places to vibe and reset here. So grab your friends (or go solo if that’s your thing) and make the most of what Auburn has to offer.

Auburn, WA, is nestled in the heart of King County and offers access to an array of quality colleges and universities. Students in Auburn benefit from a combination of community, technical, public, and private institutions, all providing excellent programs in healthcare, technology, business, and other top fields. Here’s a look at the leading public and private colleges and universities in and around Auburn, WA.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Auburn, WA

Green River College – Located right in Auburn, Green River College is known for its diverse programs in the arts, sciences, aviation, and technology. Its welcoming campus and strong transfer agreements help students take the next step in their education or career.

Highline College – Just a short drive from Auburn, Highline College offers outstanding programs in health sciences, business, and applied technology. Its student support services and multicultural environment make it a popular choice.

University of Washington Tacoma – While not in Auburn itself, UW Tacoma is easily accessible and gives local students the prestige of a University of Washington degree. It is well-respected for programs in business, computer science, education, and social work.

Pierce College District – With campuses in neighboring cities, Pierce College provides affordable and flexible education in nursing, early childhood education, and general studies, making it a smart option for students in the Auburn area.

Bellevue College – As one of the largest public colleges in the region, Bellevue College is renowned for its innovative programs in information technology, health, and business. Its hands-on approach helps students succeed in today’s job market.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Auburn, WA

DeVry University – Federal Way Location – Conveniently located for Auburn residents, DeVry University offers flexible online and on-site programs in business, technology, and healthcare. It’s ideal for adult learners and career changers as well as recent high school graduates.

Northwest University – Situated in nearby Kirkland, Northwest University is a private Christian institution with respected undergraduate and graduate programs in business, nursing, psychology, and education. Its supportive community fosters both academic and personal growth.

Seattle Pacific University – While based in Seattle, SPU provides a welcoming atmosphere for Auburn students seeking strong liberal arts and professional programs. Its emphasis on service and leadership development stands out.

City University of Seattle – Known for its flexible schedules and career-focused degrees, CityU serves many Auburn students pursuing bachelor’s or master’s degrees in business, education, and technology fields.

University of Puget Sound – Located in nearby Tacoma, University of Puget Sound is a highly regarded private liberal arts college. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized instruction, and a strong alumni network.

Whether you’re looking for a public or a private institution, Auburn, WA, and the surrounding region offer plenty of educational opportunities to help you achieve your goals. From hands-on technical programs to rigorous university degrees, the path to your future starts close to home.

Auburn, WA, is home to several excellent high schools that aim to shape students into successful, well-rounded adults. From strong public institutions focused on academics and career readiness to private schools offering personalized learning experiences, there's a lot to choose from in this vibrant community. Whether you're a parent seeking the right fit for your child or a student exploring options, here’s a look at the top public and private high schools in Auburn.

Top Public High Schools in Auburn, WA

• Auburn Riverside High School – Known for its strong academics and wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, Auburn Riverside also excels in athletics and extracurricular activities. It maintains a supportive environment that encourages students to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
• Auburn Mountainview High School – This school emphasizes college and career readiness through a diverse curriculum that includes AP classes, Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, and strong arts and athletics departments. Community involvement is also a strong focus here.
• Auburn High School – Auburn High offers a rich academic experience with a wide variety of academic pathways. Known for its inclusive culture, the school also provides strong support programs for different learning needs.
• – A smaller, alternative high school that focuses on personalized learning for students who benefit from a different environment. West Auburn is praised for its caring teachers and individualized support.
• Thomas Jefferson High School – Although technically located in nearby Federal Way, many Auburn students attend this high-performing school. With strong science and math programs, it offers both academic rigor and a variety of student clubs and sports.

Top Private High Schools in Auburn, WA

• Auburn Adventist Academy – A college-preparatory Christian high school offering faith-based education in a close-knit community. With strong academics, leadership training, and spiritual growth opportunities, it's a great choice for families seeking values-based learning.
• Rainier Christian High School – Located just outside Auburn, this private school offers a Christ-centered education focused on building character, leadership, and academic achievement. Smaller class sizes mean more individualized attention for each student.
• Seattle Christian School – Though not directly in Auburn, many families from the area choose this private school for its strong academic reputation and robust spiritual foundation. It offers top-tier education with an emphasis on service and biblical values.
• Puget Sound Adventist Academy – This private high school near Auburn focuses on academic excellence with a strong spiritual foundation. Small classes and dedicated faculty help prepare students for success in college and life.
• Pacific Christian Academy – Just minutes from Auburn, this independent Christian school promotes both academic achievement and personal growth. Students benefit from a balanced education that nurtures their mind, body, and spirit.

No matter what your educational goals or values may be, Auburn offers a wide range of high-quality public and private high schools. With dedicated teachers, a commitment to student success, and strong community support, these schools are helping shape the leaders of tomorrow.

Auburn, Washington may be a small city nestled between Seattle and Tacoma, but it's a proud part of Washington State's thriving sports culture. While Auburn itself doesn’t have major league professional sports teams, its close proximity to Seattle makes it a hotspot for passionate sports fans who fiercely support teams across a variety of leagues and sports. Whether you're cheering courtside or watching from a local sports bar, Auburn residents have plenty to root for just a short drive away.

Football – Seattle Seahawks (NFL)

• Seattle Seahawks – Just about 30 minutes north of Auburn, the Seattle Seahawks are one of the most beloved NFL teams in the Pacific Northwest. They won their first Super Bowl title in 2013 (Super Bowl XLVIII), led by quarterback Russell Wilson and the "Legion of Boom" defense, which included stars like Richard Sherman and Earl Thomas. Whether it's the roar of the crowd at Lumen Field or the sea of blue and green across the region, including Auburn, the 12th Man shows up strong every season.

Baseball – Seattle Mariners (MLB)

• Seattle Mariners – Playing their home games at the beautiful T-Mobile Park, the Mariners are Washington’s Major League Baseball team. While they've yet to capture a World Series title, they’ve made playoff appearances that electrify fans across the state. Legendary players like Ken Griffey Jr., Edgar Martinez, and Ichiro Suzuki have made the Mariners a team with devoted followers, including many from Auburn who make the trip for game day excitement.

Soccer – Seattle Sounders FC (MLS)

• Seattle Sounders FC – If you're a soccer fan living in Auburn, chances are you're a supporter of the Sounders. Competing in Major League Soccer since 2009, the team has been incredibly successful, winning two MLS Cups (2016 and 2019) and multiple U.S. Open Cups. With a passionate fan base and electric matchday atmosphere at Lumen Field, the Sounders have brought world-class soccer to the region—and Auburn fans are all in.

Hockey – Seattle Kraken (NHL)

• Seattle Kraken – Seattle's newest professional sports team, the Kraken joined the NHL in the 2021–22 season and brought a wave of hockey enthusiasm to Washington. Playing home games at Climate Pledge Arena, the Kraken have already begun to build a loyal following. Even in Auburn, hockey fans proudly rock the deep sea blue and red-eyed tentacles of the Kraken as they help grow the sport in the region.

Women's Basketball – Seattle Storm (WNBA)

• Seattle Storm – The Storm are one of the WNBA’s top franchises, with four championships (2004, 2010, 2018, and 2020). Led at various times by legends like Sue Bird and Breanna Stewart, the team has brought high-level women’s basketball to the Pacific Northwest. Many Auburn families head to Seattle to catch a game and support this powerhouse team that continues to inspire fans of all ages.

While Auburn may not have pro teams of its own, it proudly stands as part of Washington’s united sports community. With incredible talent, loyal fan bases, and growing enthusiasm across all major sports, Auburn residents never have to travel far to find the thrill of professional competition.

Auburn, Washington is a dynamic city in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Nestled between Seattle and Tacoma, it’s full of rich history, unique attractions, and small-town charm with big-city access. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here are 10 fun facts that make Auburn a special place to explore:

1. Two Counties, One City – Auburn is one of the few cities in Washington that sits in both King and Pierce counties.
2. Railroad Roots – Originally named Slaughter (yes, really!), Auburn was a major stop on the Northern Pacific Railway in the late 1800s, giving the city its early identity.
3. Home of the Muckleshoot Tribe – The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe has deep ancestral roots in this region and continues to play a vital cultural and economic role in Auburn today.
4. Revved Up at Emerald Downs – Auburn is home to Emerald Downs, one of the top racetracks in the Pacific Northwest where horse racing fans come from all over during the spring and summer months.
5. Brunch and Planes? – The Museum of Flight Restoration Center is located right in Auburn, offering aviation lovers a behind-the-scenes look at historic aircraft being brought back to life.
6. More Than Just Rain – Yes, it’s Washington, and yes, it rains. But Auburn gets about 141 sunny days per year — not bad for a city in the Pacific Northwest!
7. Green Spaces Galore – With more than 30 parks and over 23 miles of trails, Auburn is perfect for outdoor lovers looking to hike, bike, or simply enjoy some time in nature.
8. It’s Got That Holiday Spirit – Every year, Auburn lights up the season with its annual Santa Parade and Tree Lighting Festival, attracting families from all over the region.
9. Filmmaker’s Favorite – With its beautiful landscapes and vintage vibes, Auburn has been used as a filming location for several independent films and commercials over the years.
10. City of Two Rivers – Auburn sits at the confluence of the White and Green Rivers, giving the city its lush beauty and making it a great spot for fishing, kayaking, or riverside picnics.