Apartments for Rent in Federal Way, WA (268 Rentals)

How Many Bedrooms?Done
Select your price rangeDone
Lifestyle Matching SearchDone
By AmenitiesDone
By Community TypeDone
Features and AvailabilityDone
Done

The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

Touring a rental? This guide helps you know exactly what to look for, from safety features to hidden flaws, so you can confidently sign your lease or keep searching.

Seattle's Best Affordable Neighborhoods

Learn about Seattle, WA and the best places to live with original content written by our Local Expert Sharon Stallings

Smart Renter's Guide: Calculating Affordable Rent & Housing Costs

Wondering how to determine your rental budget? This comprehensive guide covers everything from the 30% rule to hidden fees and effective budgeting strategies.

Navigating the Rental Market: Tips for First-Time Renters

Entering the rental market? Learn these simple tips and strategies to avoid common pitfalls and make confident choices. Rent with peace of mind.

How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit

Learn How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit from the Renter University at AparmentHomeLiving.com.

Federal Way, WA Local Guide

Photo of Staff Writer  - Local Guide Expert
Written By:
Staff Writer
Local Guide Expert

Quick Rent Budget Calculator

How much rent can you afford?

The common "Rule of Thumb" is that rent should be no more than 30% of your income. How much is that? Enter your monthly income and click "Calculate My Budget" to find out.

decorative image of people with a giant lease agreement

Federal Way Overview

Federal Way, WA is close to Seattle yet maintains its own unique character and charm. This dynamic town is a great place for people who love the great outdoors. You can find apartments in Federal Way that are near parks, botanical gardens, and major highways into the mountains. Meanwhile, if you prefer shopping and culture, downtown areas have a great community that you can become part of.

What is the history of Federal Way?

Federal Way was named after Federal Highway US 99, the main road of the area. This logging settlement became a thriving community in the 1920s and was incorporated in 1990 after decades of unsuccessful ballots. Its history in the timber industry is still apparent via museums and forested botanical gardens.

How is the weather in Federal Way?

Like much western Washington, Federal Way gets plenty of rain (over 150 days of rain, versus the United States' average of 106 days). This is coupled with fairly mild weather that rarely dips far below freezing. Summers are dryer and around 75/55. Winters are typically moderately wet and temperatures can drop to 45/35.

How do I get around town?

Federal Way has a transit center with parking spaces, multiple routes, and bicycle racks. You can get around town by bike if you don't mind the rain. However, if you're commuting into a major nearby city, consider a car. The nearest airports are Auburn Municipal Airport and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

What is the Federal Way commute like?

State Route 99 and I-5 run north to Seattle and south to Tacoma. You can follow the coastline to Dash Point via 509 and 18 takes you east to Auburn and beyond. If you're commuting outside of town, expect heavy traffic on the interstate and major highways during rush hour.

What are the local media outlets?

The Federal Way Mirror serves as the town's official newspaper. Some popular TV news stations include ABC (channel 04-1), NBC (channel 05-1), and CBS (channel 07-1). You can get your radio fix via KVTI 90.9 FM (public radio), KJR 95.7 (classic hits), KIRO 97.3 (news), and KBKS 106.1 (Top 40).

Why live in Federal Way, WA?

Federal Way is a town on the move. In some ways this is literal, thanks to its parks botanical garden, sports fields, jogging friendly trails, and more. However, this town also gains a dynamic energy from being located in close proximity to Tacoma and Seattle. You're a quick drive from all the attractions and perks of these big cities, including art galleries, museums, and shopping plazas. However, you're also able to come home and relax in an apartment in one of Federal Way's peaceful neighborhoods. This town is also a great 'launching point' to explore the Rocky Mountains, Mt. Ranier National Park, and more.

What Federal Way landmarks should I see?

The logging settlement roots of this town live on in the Pacific Bonsai Museum and and the Rhododendron Botanical Garden. The Wild Waves Theme & Water Park (see below) is famous throughout the Seattle and Tacoma area. Finally, classic rock fans may get a kick out of the Jimi Hendrix Memorial.

What is there to do around Federal Way?

Federal Way boasts a number of city parks with hiking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. One popular hotspot for local shopping is The Commons. The Wild Waves Theme & Water Park (largest amusement park in the area) is popular during summer. Wild Waves has both swimming and thrilling rollercoasters.

Any annual festivals or Federal Way events to know?

The town loves to celebrate, with a whole calendar of festivals to choose from. One highlight is the Federal Way Red, White, and Blues Festival celebrating the Fourth of July. A quirky fest is the Rhythm & Brews Festival, which you may guess celebrates both the local microbreweries and the area's vibrant music scene.

Where are the nearby vacation spots?

Federal Way is just outside of the Seattle-Tacoma area, home to the Space Needle and other attractions. A few hours' drive takes you to Olympic National Park, where you can experience glaciers, mountains, cool northern rainforests, and rugged coasts. To the east are miles of National Forests, great for camping. Head southeast and you'll hit Mt. Rainier National Park, one of the finest views in the state.

Where is the best place to move in Federal Way?

Federal Way touches the coastline, so it is very possible to find apartments near the water. Some waterfront areas are historic or upscale, making a higher budget helpful. The Star Lake neighborhood is a lively place for active people. Head inland and you can find apartments near the numerous state parks like Dash Point State Park. This is great spot for people who like to get in a morning jog. Families can find places near the Federal Way High School and Mirror Lake Elementary School. Finally, is you plan to commute to Seattle or Tacoma for work, consider getting an apartment in the eastern side of the city. This places you closer to State Route 99 and Interstate 5, helping you shave a few minutes off of commute times.

Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:
Location, Location, Location!

Explore Federal Way, WA Rentals by Map

View MapFederal Way, WA Apartments MapView MapFederal Way, WA Rental Homes Map

Getting Around Federal Way, WA

Walk Score®

56 / 100

Somewhat Walkable

Some errands can be accomplished on foot

Bike Score®

45 / 100

Somewhat Bikeable

Minimal bike infrastructure

Transit Score®

37 / 100

Some Transit

A few nearby public transportation options

Frequently Asked Questions about Federal Way

How much are Studio apartments in Federal Way?

There are currently 17 Studio Apartments in Federal Way with rent ranges from $860 to $2,000 with an average price of $1,512.

What is the current price range for One Bedroom Federal Way Apartments for rent?

Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in Federal Way ranges from $775 to $3,961 with an average monthly rent of $1,653.

What does renting a Two Bedroom Apartment in Federal Way cost?

The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in Federal Way range from $1,220 to $3,889. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $2,040.

How expensive are Federal Way Three Bedroom Apartments?

There are currently 57 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in Federal Way on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $1,578 to $6,778 - averaging $2,513 for the location.

Expert Rental Resources

Helpful Apartment Articles, How-To's and Tips

The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.

decorative image for Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls article

Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls

Written by: Cheryl Bowman

A fantastic way to save money and enjoy a built-in community is to share an apartment. However, a bad roommate situation can turn your dream rental into a nightmare.

decorative image for The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour article

The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

Written by: Marie Brown

You’ve scrolled through countless listings, walked through a blur of rentals, and finally found what feels like the one. The pictures? Fantastic. The neighborhood seems just right.

decorative image for Know Your Budget: Calculating What You Can Realistically Afford When Renting article

Know Your Budget: Calculating What You Can Realistically Afford When Renting

Written by: Lauren Harrington

Renting an apartment or house isn’t just about looking through online ads, choosing a few apartments or homes you want to tour, filling out an application, and putting down a deposit. Those things are all necessary and important.

decorative image for The Freedom of Short-Term Leases: Exploring the Advantages for Renters article

The Freedom of Short-Term Leases: Exploring the Advantages for Renters

Written by: Bobbi Jackson

If you’re looking to relocate right now, a popular solution that may best fit your current rental needs is a short-term lease.