Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Federal Way, WA
Thinking about moving to Federal Way, WA? With a population just over 100,000, this vibrant city offers affordable home prices around $484,000 and average rents of $1,730. Residents enjoy a moderate cost of living, a 32-minute average commute, and access to scenic Pacific Northwest weather with mild summers and wet winters. While property crime rates are higher than average, Federal Way features diverse neighborhoods, convenient access to major hospitals, and a variety of public and private school options—making it a solid choice for families and commuters alike.
Demographics - Federal Way, WA
Demographics - Federal Way, WA
Federal Way is home to just over 101,000 residents, offering a diverse community where nearly 40% identify as White, 17% as Asian, and 11% as Black, with over 20% of the population speaking a language other than English at home. The median age is 36.4, reflecting a balanced mix of families and working professionals. The city has a moderate population density, creating a vibrant yet comfortable urban atmosphere.
Population:
101,030
Density:
3,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.4
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
20.6%

Ethnic Composition
White:
39.2%
Black:
11.1%
Asian:
17.3%
Others:
32.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Federal Way, WA?
Federal Way’s cost of living is moderately above the national average, with a median home value of $484,000 and average rent at $1,730 per month. Utilities and transportation costs are reasonable, while housing is the largest expense. State taxes are relatively low, making the area attractive for those seeking affordability in the Seattle metro region.
Median House Value:
$484,000
Gross Rent:
$1,730
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$104
Auto Insurance:
$1,380
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$755
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
122.5
Grocery:
117.7
Housing:
140.9
Utilities:
97.6
Transportation:
108.2
Health Care:
111.2
Miscellaneous:
104.0
Crime
Is Federal Way, WA a safe place to live?
While Federal Way’s property crime rate is higher than the national average, with a 1 in 32 chance of experiencing property crime, violent crime remains comparatively lower at 356 incidents per 100,000 residents. Residents should take standard safety precautions, especially in certain neighborhoods. The city continues to work on community safety and policing efforts.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
356
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,160
Crime Index:
3,516
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 281
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 32
Weather
What is the weather like in Federal Way, WA year-round?
Federal Way features classic Pacific Northwest weather, with mild summers averaging highs around 77°F and cool, wet winters with highs near 48°F. The city receives about 38 inches of rain annually and enjoys sunshine about 44% of the year. This climate supports lush greenery and outdoor activities year-round.

Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
48°F

Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
63°F

Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
44%
Neighbors
Federal Way’s residents enjoy a median household income of $77,200 and a family income of $88,000, with nearly 90% of adults holding at least a high school diploma. The average commute is just over 32 minutes, and about 5.6% use public transportation. The city’s diverse population includes more than 30% non-English speakers, enriching local culture and community life.
Median Income:
$41,300
Household Income:
$77,200
Family Income:
$88,000
Per Capita Income:
$34,900
Income Male:
$48,600
Income Female:
$41,900
Poverty Rate:
9.8%
Non English Speakers:
31.6%
Rent:
$1,730
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
5.6%
Commute Time:
32.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.4%
Bachelors or More:
28.6%
Education
How are the schools in Federal Way, WA?
Federal Way offers a variety of educational options, including well-rated public schools such as Federal Way High School and Lakota Middle School, as well as several private and parochial schools. Local colleges like Highline College and Green River College are just a short drive away, offering higher education and workforce training opportunities. The city’s schools have a high graduation rate, supporting families and lifelong learners.

Public Schools
Name:
Federal Way High School
Street:
30611 16th Ave S
Phone:
253-945-5400
Students:
1,700
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.7
Name:
Lakota Middle School
Street:
1415 S 314th St
Phone:
253-945-4800
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.3

Private Schools
Name:
St. Vincent de Paul School
Street:
30527 8th Ave S
Phone:
253-839-3532
Students:
210

Colleges
Name:
Highline College
City:
Des Moines
State:
WA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
15,100
Name:
Green River College
City:
Auburn
State:
WA
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
7,900
Healthcare
Federal Way provides strong healthcare access, with major hospitals like St. Francis Hospital and MultiCare Auburn Medical Center offering comprehensive services, including emergency care. The area has 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, and over 91% of the population has health insurance. Residents benefit from reliable healthcare resources and facilities nearby.

Major Hospitals
Name:
St. Francis Hospital
Address:
34515 9th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003
Phone:
(253) 944-4100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
MultiCare Auburn Medical Center
Address:
202 N Division St, Auburn, WA 98001
Phone:
(253) 833-7711
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
76.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Federal Way, WA?
The housing market in Federal Way is relatively stable, with a median home price of $484,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,730. About 56% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a low foreclosure rate of 0.6%. Modest home appreciation and a reasonable vacancy rate make it accessible for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$484,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,730
Owner Occupied Rate:
55.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents of Federal Way handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located in Olympia and accessible online. The DMV provides comprehensive services for drivers, including licensing, title transfers, and renewals. Helpful customer service and an easy-to-navigate website streamline the process for new arrivals.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
405 Black Lake Blvd SW, Olympia, WA 98502
Phone:
1-360-902-3900
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.