📍 About ZSE & Auburn
Seattle ARTCC (ZSE) is located in Auburn, Washington, a growing suburb between Seattle and Tacoma. Auburn offers a mix of suburban living, access to nature, and convenient transportation links. It’s a strong choice for those who want affordability compared to Seattle, without sacrificing access to big-city amenities.
🏡 Where to Live
For Singles & Young Couples
- Downtown Auburn – Walkable, near transit, restaurants and bars
- Kent – Nearby city with more apartments and entertainment
- Renton – Trendy, near The Landing shopping center, closer to Seattle
For Families
- Lakeland Hills – Quiet planned community with parks and schools
- Federal Way – Affordable suburban neighborhoods with easy freeway access
- Maple Valley – Excellent schools, nature access, great for families
🚗 Commute Times to ZSE Facility
- 0–15 min: Downtown Auburn, Lakeland Hills
- 15–30 min: Kent, Federal Way, Covington
- 30–45 min: Renton, Maple Valley, Tacoma
🎓 Top School Districts
🧳 Things to Do – Within 2 Hours, Year-Round
🏞️ Outdoor Activities
- Mount Rainier National Park: Hiking, climbing, and scenic drives
- Green River Trail: Walking, biking, and nature views along the river
- Lake Tapps: Boating, kayaking, and summer fun
🎭 Culture & Events
- Emerald Downs Racetrack: Horse racing and events in Auburn
- Muckleshoot Casino: Entertainment, dining, and gaming
- Seattle: Concerts, museums, pro sports, Pike Place Market
✈️ Nearby Airports
- Seattle-Tacoma Intl (SEA): ~25 minutes north via I-5 or WA-167
- Boeing Field (BFI): ~30 minutes – useful for general aviation
🧭 Helpful Resources for Newcomers
🛡️ Crime & Safety + Town Websites
- Auburn: Generally safe; varies by neighborhood
- Maple Valley: Very safe, family-oriented
- Federal Way: Affordable, but some areas have higher crime rates
💰 Cost of Living
- Housing: Median home ~$550K–$700K
- Rent: 1-bedroom ~$1,500–$2,000/month
- Utilities: ~$200/month average
- Taxes: No state income tax; higher sales tax
🌆 Neighborhood Highlights
- Downtown Auburn: Walkable, near transit and shops
- Lakeland Hills: Popular with families, modern development
- Renton Highlands: More urban feel, easy airport access
☀️ Seasonal Weather
- Winter: Cool and wet, 30s–40s°F
- Spring: Mild with blooming cherry blossoms, 50s–60s°F
- Summer: Warm and dry, 70s–80s°F
- Fall: Cool with vibrant foliage, 50s–60s°F
🚇 Public Transportation & Traffic
- Sounder Train: Auburn Station to Seattle in under 45 minutes
- Traffic: Heavy during rush hours on I-5, WA-167, and I-405
- Transit Access: Buses and light rail connections through Sound Transit
🏥 Healthcare & Urgent Care
- Hospitals: MultiCare Auburn Medical Center, Valley Medical Center in Renton
- Urgent Care: Indigo Urgent Care, MultiCare, and CHI Franciscan clinics
- Specialty Care: Available in Tacoma and Seattle
🫂 Social Life & Community
- Events: AuburnFest, Veterans Parade, Summer Sounds concerts
- Nightlife: Low-key in Auburn; more in Seattle and Tacoma
- Community: Diverse, family-friendly, welcoming
🍽️ Dining & Food Scene
- Local Favorites: Sun Break Cafe, Longhorn Barbecue, Oddfellas
- International Options: Korean, Thai, Mexican, and Vietnamese food plentiful
- Nearby Dining: Renton and Seattle offer upscale and trendy options
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Facility: ZSE located in Auburn industrial area
- Schedule: Rotating shifts with nights and weekends
- Facility Culture: Professional, supportive environment
📦 Moving Tips
- Utilities: Puget Sound Energy, City of Auburn Utilities
- Rain Prep: Buy quality rain gear and waterproof boots
- Storage: Numerous climate-controlled storage facilities nearby
❓ FAQs
- Is Auburn safe?
Yes, in most neighborhoods. Lakeland Hills and Lea Hill are particularly safe. - How’s the weather?
Mild and wet with beautiful summers - Does Auburn flood?
Some low-lying areas near the river flood occasionally—check FEMA maps