University Place 86 Exceptional
University Place Livability #16 ranked city in Washington#322 ranked city in the USARanks better than 98% of areas

Pros and Cons of Living in University Place

PROS
  • Commute

    The high commute score in this area could imply easy access to public transportation, as well as shorter-than-average commute times to your workplace.

  • Employment

    With higher than average median household income, income per capita and lower unemployment rates, this area scores extremely well in the employment category.

  • Housing

    Impressive scores in the housing category characterize this area, potentially attributed to the availability of affordable housing, strong appreciation rates and high home values.

  • Health & Safety

    Accessible health facilities like hospitals, doctors offices, clinics and nursing homes as well as good air quality are all factors that have led to a high score in this category.

  • Schools

    The high score in the schools category can be attributed to outstanding test scores, elevated graduation rates and the convenient placement of elementary and high schools in this area.

CONS
  • Cost Of Living

    This area is known for its high cost of living, which means you should anticipate higher costs for everyday goods and services, housing, groceries, and health care.

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What's it like Living in University Place?

University Place is a moderately-sized city located in the state of Washington. The city has a population of 33,661 people. With a population density of 4,036 people per square mile, University Place is well above the nation's average density level. At 71%, the majority of the University Place population is White; this is followed by 11% Asian and 6% Black. On a daily basis, the typical American spends approximately 26 minutes on their one-way work commute. Reduced travel times not only contributes to increased overall happiness, but also affords more opportunities to cherish moments with family and friends. If you're living in University Place, your commute time will align closely with the national average, spanning a one-way duration of approximately 28 minutes.

Whether you’re relocating to a new area to be closer to family, friends or for a new job, living in University Place could be a positive experience compared to other cities in Washington if you know where to look. Don't forget to determine what matters most to you in a neighborhood. Consider factors such as safety, proximity to work or school, access to amenities (like parks, fitness facilities, grocery stores, restaurants), public transportation options, community atmosphere and the overall vibe you're looking for. To help you find the best places to live in and around University Place, AreaVibes has created a livability score using key metrics like amenities, crime, cost of living, employment, housing and more.

Using data and statistics University Place has received a livability score of 87/100. This score is ranked in the 99th percentile when compared to all other cities. Compared to the United States average, University Place ranks among some of the best places to live in the country! University Place also ranks in the top 10 percent of all cities, which is no small feat! Based on the scores for each individual category, University Place has been rewarded with high marks for amenities (B-), crime (B), education (A+), employment (A+) and housing (A). There is at least one category that does not have great scores in University Place. The following was graded with a discouraging score: cost of living (F).

Parents and families tend to prioritize school test scores when choosing educational institutions. Test score data can be a critical factor in evaluating and comparing schools. In University Place, the average school test scores are an impressive 72%, well above the national average. This achievement reflects the educational system's dedication to providing students with the essential knowledge and tools for success. It ensures that your children will receive the support and resources needed to excel academically and thrive in their educational pursuits.

Finding affordable real estate and housing in University Place can be tricky. Having said that, this area might be the place to get the best of both worlds. Based on factors like home/rental affordability and appreciation rates, this area has received an above average score in the housing category. A healthy real estate market can lead to wealth appreciation for property owners, as rising property values can contribute to homeowners' equity, financial stability and the ability to build long-term wealth.

Being close to public transit, grocery stores, parks and other conveniences are all important when weighing your options for a new home in University Place. Before you determine if any of these amenities are available in the area, you will also want to know if the real estate prices in University Place are affordable. The median home price for University Place homes is $387,800, which is 44% higher than the Washington average. If we take a closer look at the affordability of homes in University Place, we’ll see that the home price to income ratio is 5, which is 16.3% higher than the Washington average.

Best Places to Live in and Around University Place

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How Do You Rate The Livability In University Place?

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Compare University Place, WA Livability

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      University Place transportation information

      Statistic University Place Washington National
      Average one way commute28min27min26min
      Workers who drive to work79.0%72.3%76.4%
      Workers who carpool8.3%10.2%9.3%
      Workers who take public transit4.0%6.2%5.1%
      Workers who bicycle1.1%0.9%0.6%
      Workers who walk1.3%3.6%2.8%
      Working from home5.5%5.6%4.6%
      Source: The University Place, WA data and statistics displayed above are derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS).