Burien, WA
Population 51,331 · Washington
About Burien, WA
Burien is a mid-sized city in Washington with a population of 51,331 residents. The median household income is $90,597 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Burien is 39.8 years.
Housing in Burien has a median home value of $609,300 and median monthly rent of $1,742. Of the 21,184 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 11,298 owner-occupied and 8,545 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Burien is 5.5% and the poverty rate is 10.4%. 31.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 26.8 minutes.
How Burien Ranks in Washington
Cost of Living in Burien, WA
Compared to national averages, Burien has a median household income of $90,597 (21% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $609,300, which is 149% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,742 is 50% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Burien's income is 0% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 32% above the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Burien, WA?
Burien offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $90,597, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 10.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $609,300. However, as a mid-sized city, Burien provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Burien has a population of 51,331 with a median age of 39.8 years. Compare Burien with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Burien
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bothell | 48,610 | $132,232 | $871,300 | Compare |
| Olympia | 55,583 | $76,930 | $457,900 | Compare |
| Lacey | 57,088 | $87,277 | $427,900 | Compare |
| Bremerton | 44,531 | $74,399 | $409,500 | Compare |
| Shoreline | 59,280 | $113,336 | $759,400 | Compare |
| Edmonds | 42,783 | $116,095 | $840,200 | Compare |
| Puyallup | 42,642 | $95,639 | $507,000 | Compare |
| Lynnwood | 40,953 | $76,439 | $635,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Washington
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Burien
What is the population of Burien, WA?
The population of Burien, WA is 51,331 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Burien?
The median household income in Burien, WA is $90,597 per year.
What is the median home value in Burien?
The median home value in Burien, WA is $609,300.
What is the average rent in Burien?
The median monthly rent in Burien, WA is $1,742.
What is the unemployment rate in Burien?
The unemployment rate in Burien, WA is 5.5%.