White Center is a vibrant and evolving neighborhood located just south of West Seattle and north of Burien. Known for its cultural diversity and strong sense of community, White Center is often described as one of Seattle’s hidden gems. Locally nicknamed “Rat City”—a reference to its WWII-era Army Relocation and Training Center—the area has transformed into a lively hub with an eclectic mix of small businesses, international eateries, and local art. You'll find everything from Vietnamese bakeries and Mexican taquerias to craft breweries and vintage thrift shops, reflecting the neighborhood’s global roots and independent spirit.

Housing in White Center is a mix of architectural styles, offering options for a wide range of budgets and tastes. The area features early-20th-century bungalows, post-war ramblers, and newer construction homes, with many properties priced more affordably than those in neighboring West Seattle. Townhouses and multi-family units are also becoming more common as development increases. The neighborhood attracts a mix of first-time buyers, long-time residents, and investors looking for potential in an up-and-coming area with strong community ties.

Families in White Center are served by the Highline Public Schools district, with schools such as Mount View Elementary and Cascade Middle School nearby. The neighborhood also features several parks and green spaces, including Steve Cox Memorial Park, which offers a skate park, ball fields, and a community center. For nature lovers, the proximity to Seahurst Park and the Puget Sound shoreline provides opportunities for beachcombing, hiking, and scenic views within a short drive.

White Center’s appeal lies in its unpolished charm, affordability, and central location. Just 15–20 minutes from downtown Seattle and Sea-Tac Airport, it offers convenient access to both urban life and quieter suburban pockets. With ongoing community investment and a strong neighborhood identity, White Center is gaining attention from homebuyers who value diversity, authenticity, and a dynamic local scene that’s still off the beaten path.

Annual Community Events:

• White Center Jubilee Days: Established in 1923, this Seafair-sanctioned festival occurs every July, featuring a street fair, main stage performances, beer garden, car show, parade, and children's activities. ​

• White Center Block Party: An annual summer gathering that supports local businesses, artists, and musicians. The event includes live music, vendor booths, and family-friendly activities, fostering community engagement. ​

• White Center Pride Street Festival: Celebrated in June, this festival honors LGBTQ+ pride with a street fair, live entertainment, and community activities, promoting inclusivity and diversity within the neighborhood.

• White Center Spring Clean: Held in April, this community-driven event brings together volunteers to beautify the neighborhood by covering graffiti, touching up murals, painting buildings, picking up trash, and cleaning local businesses' windows. ​

• Halloweentown Block Party: An all-ages Halloween celebration featuring activities like trunk-or-treat, carnival games, live wrestling, music, beer gardens, and costume contests, offering festive fun for the entire community.

Neighboring Communities