Is Buckley Safe, Pros and cons of living in Buckley

Buckley, Washington, nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, offers a compelling blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience. This city provides a balanced lifestyle with a close-knit community feel, making it an attractive location for families and individuals alike. Its natural surroundings offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, while its proximity to larger urban centers ensures access to a wider range of amenities and employment options.

The community of Buckley is characterized by its welcoming atmosphere and a population that values both its local heritage and future growth. With a median age of approximately 42.6 years, the city’s residents represent a diverse mix of age groups, contributing to a dynamic community fabric. This demographic profile suggests a stable environment with a blend of established residents and newcomers drawn to the area’s appeal.

Is it Safe to Live in Buckley?

Buckley’s overall crime rate is reported to be lower than the national average, with some sources indicating it is significantly lower. For instance, one report states the crime rate is 50.1% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This includes lower rates for both violent and property crimes compared to national figures.

While overall crime rates are favorable, it’s important to note that crime can vary by neighborhood within Buckley. Some analyses suggest that the eastern parts of the city are considered the safest, while other areas might experience higher incident rates. Understanding these localized variations can help residents make informed decisions about where to live within Buckley.

Violent Crime Statistics

The violent crime rate in Buckley is reported to be substantially below the national average. One assessment indicates a violent crime rate of 190.3 per 100,000 residents, which is 50% lower than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). This translates to a reduced chance of residents becoming victims of violent crimes.

Specific violent crime categories also show favorable trends. For example, murder rates are reported to be 54% below the national average, and aggravated assault is 53% lower than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). These statistics contribute to Buckley’s reputation as a relatively safe community for its residents.

Property Crime Statistics

Property crime rates in Buckley also reflect a positive safety profile, generally falling below national benchmarks. One report indicates that the property crime rate is 31% lower than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). This suggests a lower likelihood of experiencing incidents such as theft, burglary, or vehicle break-ins.

Larceny and theft are noted as the most common property crimes in Buckley. However, even this category is reported to be below the national average, with an estimated rate of 934.0 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is 33% below the national average for this crime type (as reported by DoorProfit). Overall, property crime in Buckley is considered less prevalent than in many other U.S. cities.

Housing Costs and Real Estate in Buckley

Buckley’s housing market presents a mix of opportunities and challenges, with costs that are generally higher than the national average. The median home value in Buckley is approximately $657,837, which has seen a slight decrease of 0.6% over the past year (as reported by Zillow). This figure indicates a significant investment is typically required to purchase property in the area.

Renting in Buckley also reflects higher-than-average costs. The median rent for all bedroom counts and property types is around $2,150, which is 7.5% higher than the national average (as reported by Zillow). This suggests that while homeownership is a substantial investment, rental costs also represent a significant portion of a household’s budget.

Home Prices and Market Trends

The median sale price of a home in Buckley was approximately $652,000 in March, reflecting an 18.7% decrease compared to the previous year (as reported by Redfin). Homes in Buckley tend to sell relatively quickly, with an average of 28 days on the market, though this has shortened significantly from the previous year (as reported by Redfin). The market is described as very competitive, with homes often receiving multiple offers.

The median listing price for homes in Buckley is around $697,500, with a median price per square foot of $318 (as reported by Redfin). Despite a year-over-year decline in median sale price, the market shows signs of activity, with an increase in the number of homes for sale compared to the previous year (as reported by Redfin).

Rental Market Overview

The rental market in Buckley indicates a tight supply, with a limited number of available rental properties. As of May 2026, there are approximately 4 rental listings available in Buckley, WA (as reported by Redfin). This low inventory can lead to increased competition among renters seeking housing.

The average rent for all bedroom counts and property types in Buckley is approximately $2,150 per month (as reported by Zillow). This represents a month-over-month increase of $60 and a year-over-year increase of $170, indicating rising rental costs within the city.

Cost of Living in Buckley

Buckley’s cost of living is higher than both the national and state averages, driven primarily by housing expenses. The overall cost of living in Buckley is estimated to be 34% higher than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This makes it a more expensive place to live compared to many other areas in the United States.

Housing costs are a significant contributor to the elevated cost of living, being 93% higher than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). Other expense categories, such as groceries and transportation, also tend to be higher than the national average, although utility prices are noted to be lower.

Key Expense Categories

Housing remains the most substantial expense in Buckley, significantly impacting the overall cost of living. Transportation expenses are also notably higher, being 28% above the national average (as reported by Payscale). Grocery prices in Buckley are approximately 9% higher than the national average (as reported by Payscale).

Healthcare costs in Buckley are also elevated, running about 15% higher than the national average (as reported by Payscale). While some costs, like utilities, are slightly lower than the national average, the cumulative effect of housing, transportation, groceries, and healthcare makes Buckley a relatively expensive city.

Job Market and Economy in Buckley

The economy of Buckley is supported by a workforce of approximately 2,519 residents, with employment growing at a rate of 7.51% from the previous year (as reported by DataUSA). The primary industries employing residents include Retail Trade, Manufacturing, and Health Care & Social Assistance.

The job market is diverse, with a significant portion of the workforce engaged in professional and administrative roles. White-collar workers constitute about 79.3% of the employed population, while blue-collar workers make up the remaining 20.7% (as reported by Point2Homes).

Major Employers and Industries

Key employment sectors in Buckley include Retail Trade, Manufacturing, and Health Care & Social Assistance (as reported by DataUSA). Within these sectors, specific job groups such as Sales & Related Occupations, Management Occupations, and Business & Financial Operations Occupations are prominent.

While specific major employers are not detailed, the presence of large retail chains like Walmart and The Home Depot in the vicinity suggests significant employment opportunities in the retail sector. Construction and engineering firms like Kiewit Corporation also represent substantial employers in the region.

Salaries and Wages

The average annual salary in Buckley is reported to be around $51,000, or $24.52 per hour (as reported by Zippia). However, other sources indicate a median wage of $52,200 per year, with the average yearly pay for all jobs around $76,644 as of April 2026 (as reported by ZipRecruiter).

The median household income in Buckley is notably higher, reported at $124,583 (as reported by DataUSA). This higher figure for household income, compared to individual average salaries, may reflect multiple incomes within households or higher-earning professions present in the area.

Unemployment Rate

The unemployment rate in Buckley stands at 4.6% (as reported by Point2Homes). This rate is a measure of the percentage of the workforce that is currently unemployed but actively seeking employment.

For context, the unemployment rate in Washington state was 5.1% in March 2026, unchanged from the previous month (as reported by USAFacts). Buckley’s unemployment rate is therefore lower than the state average, indicating a relatively healthy local job market.

Climate and Weather in Buckley

Buckley experiences a climate characterized by distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold, wet winters. Temperatures throughout the year typically range from a low of 33°F to a high of 78°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The city receives an average of 52 inches of precipitation annually, including about 7 inches of snowfall (as reported by myPerfectWeather).

The summer months are generally dry and partly cloudy, offering pleasant conditions for outdoor activities. Winters, on the other hand, are often overcast and wet, contributing to the region’s overall precipitation levels.

Average Temperatures

During the summer, the hottest month is typically August, with average high temperatures around 78°F and lows near 55°F (as reported by Weather Spark). Conversely, the coldest month is December, with average highs around 45°F and lows near 35°F (as reported by Weather Spark).

The warm season generally spans from late June to mid-September, with daily high temperatures frequently exceeding 72°F. The cool season lasts from mid-November to early March, during which daily high temperatures typically remain below 51°F.

Rainfall and Precipitation

Buckley receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, with an annual average of 52 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The wettest month is typically November, which can see an average of 7 inches of precipitation (as reported by myPerfectWeather).

The period from October to May is generally the wet season, with a greater than 34% chance of a wet day during these months. Conversely, the drier season occurs from mid-May to early October, with August typically having the fewest wet days, averaging around 3.6 days with measurable precipitation.

Education and Schools in Buckley

Buckley is served by the White River School District, which comprises eight public schools catering to approximately 4,200 students. The district offers educational programs from early learning through high school, including specialized services.

The district’s schools are generally well-regarded, with some individual schools receiving high marks for academic performance. For example, Mountain Meadow Elementary School is noted for its consistent high rankings and exceptional test scores across subjects (as reported by SchoolDigger.com).

School Performance and Ratings

Mountain Meadow Elementary School is highlighted as a standout performer, often ranking among the top elementary schools in Washington state for its test scores (as reported by SchoolDigger.com). Glacier Middle School also maintains strong, above-average performance metrics.

At the high school level, White River High School is recognized for its high graduation rates, which are well above the state average. However, there is a noted challenge with math proficiency scores across the district, particularly in the later grades.

District Overview

The White River School District operates ten schools in total, with an average of 20 students per classroom, slightly higher than the Washington state average (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). The district’s overall quality rating is considered better than a significant percentage of other school districts in Washington and the U.S.

Student demographics within the district show a minority enrollment of 27%, which is less than the state average. The district also provides alternative educational pathways through programs like the White River Reengagement Program and White River Special Educational Services.

Demographics of Buckley

Buckley has a population of approximately 5,371 residents, making it one of the smaller cities in Washington state (as reported by DataUSA). The population has experienced growth, with a projected increase to over 5,600 residents in the coming years (as reported by World Population Review). The city’s demographic makeup is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of Black or African American and Hispanic residents.

The median age in Buckley is around 42.6 years, indicating a mature population. The gender distribution is fairly balanced, with slightly more males than females (as reported by World Population Review).

Population and Diversity

The racial composition of Buckley is largely White, accounting for about 82.5% of the population, followed by Black or African American at 8.5%, and Hispanic at 5% (as reported by Buckley Demographics). Other racial groups are represented in smaller percentages.

Citizenship within Buckley is high, with 95.5% of residents being U.S. citizens (as reported by DataUSA). The population is generally U.S.-born, with a small percentage of naturalized citizens and non-citizens.

Household and Family Structure

Buckley has approximately 1,841 households, with an average of three members per household (as reported by Point2Homes). A significant majority of these households, around 78.4%, are families, while the remaining 21.6% consist of individuals living alone or with non-relatives.

The median household income in Buckley is reported to be $124,583 (as reported by DataUSA). Despite this strong income level, about 4.3% of Buckley families live in poverty (as reported by Buckley Demographics).

Pros and Cons of Living in Buckley

Buckley offers a desirable small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community, making it appealing for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Its natural setting provides access to outdoor activities, and the city’s crime rates are generally lower than the national average, contributing to a feeling of safety.

However, the cost of living, particularly housing expenses, is significantly higher than the national average. While the job market is growing, average individual salaries may not align with the high cost of living for some residents.

Advantages of Buckley

One of the primary advantages of living in Buckley is its community-oriented environment and scenic location. The city boasts lower crime rates compared to national averages, enhancing its appeal as a safe place to reside (as reported by AreaVibes, DoorProfit). The well-regarded school district, particularly Mountain Meadow Elementary, offers quality education options.

The natural beauty surrounding Buckley provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Additionally, the city’s median household income is robust, suggesting a degree of economic stability among its residents (as reported by DataUSA).

Disadvantages of Buckley

The most significant drawback for potential residents is the high cost of living, driven largely by housing expenses. Buckley’s housing costs are substantially above the national average, requiring a considerable financial commitment for homeownership or renting (as reported by AreaVibes, Payscale).

While the job market is expanding, the average salaries might not fully compensate for the elevated cost of living. Commute times can also be a factor, with residents spending an average of 33.5 minutes commuting to work daily (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).