Federal Way Apartments and Rentals

One of the most vibrant cities in the Seattle/Tacoma metropolitan areas, Federal Way, Washington, is a city that continues to experience growth and a low unemployment rate when compared to the rest of the state and most of the country. Between 2000 and 2010, Federal Way experienced a 7.3 percent increase in population, proving that Federal Way continues to be a city that draws in a wide variety of residents. With so much growth, finding Federal Way apartments for rent should be a breeze. 

Federal Way first came to fruition when it became a popular logging settlement during the late 1800s. Federal Highway 99 gave the area a reliable connection to the growing cities of Seattle and Tacoma in the early 1920s. After the consolidation of several schools and the construction of many family-oriented housing areas, a commercial business district and a large shopping center, Federal Way began to blossom into its current bustling state.

Located just a few short miles south of Seattle, Federal Way is a great location for any individual looking to further their education. The University of Washington's main campus in Seattle is located 24 miles away, and is most well known for its medical programs. For an option that's a little closer to home, Federal Way residents can attend UW's Tacoma campus, which is only 15 miles away. Individuals looking for a top-notch liberal arts education may want to attend the University of Puget Sound, also located in nearby Tacoma, Washington.

Approximately 22,000 people work in Federal Way, with many individuals commuting from neighboring cities such as Kent, Bellevue and Tacoma for job opportunities found here. According to city-data.com, unemployment here in 2012 was almost 1 percent lower than the rest of the state, demonstrating how fruitful the local economy is. One of the largest employers for the city is the Weyerhauser Company, most famous for its lumber products, whose U.S. headquarters is located in Federal Way. Federal Way Public Schools are also a top employer, so residents in the education field may find the opportunities for employment more plentiful here than elsewhere in the area.

Most residents in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area pay a little higher than average to enjoy their lifestyle, and Federal Way is part of the pack. In 2012, the cost of living index was 11 points higher than the national average, according to city-day.com. As of 2009, median gross rent for the area was $975. However, compared to rent in Seattle, which averages around $1,000 per month, residents may enjoy living a little bit more affordably in their apartments in Federal Way.

Federal Way is home to the area's largest and one of its most popular amusement and water parks, Wild Waves. With more than 60 different rides, water slides and attractions, the park is known for its eclectic collection of roller coasters and number of thrilling waterslides.

Federal Way is also home to the Rhododendron Species Foundation and Botanical Garden. The Pacific Northwest may be most well known for its evergreen vegetation, but residents here also know and love the wide variety of rhododendron plants that pepper their roadsides and backyards, and this botanical garden is tops for checking them all out. Housing more than 10,000 different flora species, the best - or at least most aromatic - time to visit is between March and May, when the colorful blooms are at their peak.

If you are looking for an apartment for rent or a house rental in Federal Way, WA, search for rental properties at Rent.com®.