Burien Washington Map

About Burien, Washington

Burien is a locality in King County, Washington, United States. It has a population of 51,513. The population density is 1974.2 people per km². Burien is located at 47.4704°N, 122.3468°W. It observes the Pacific Time (America/Los_Angeles) timezone. ZIP code: 98146.

Burien rests at the southern edge of King County, Washington, a place where the Puget Sound’s cool, salt-tinged air mingles with the scent of evergreen forests. It lies 1.6 miles northwest of SeaTac, WA (from SeaTac, WA: bearing 315°T), and is situated 9.4 miles south of Seattle. Its physical character is defined by a gentle slope from the higher ground of the Des Moines Creek watershed down towards the shimmering expanse of the Sound, a constant presence that shapes the light and the very rhythm of life here. The landscape is a study in contrasts, with the dense, moss-draped trees of the western fringes giving way to more open spaces as one approaches the waterfront, where the gray-blue waters reflect the often-overcast sky, and the distant, snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains form a majestic, if sometimes veiled, backdrop. This proximity to the water lends a certain atmospheric quality to Burien, a softness to the edges of things, and a daily reminder of the vastness that lies just beyond the familiar shores. The history of Burien is a narrative of settlement and growth, a story that began long before its formal incorporation. Indigenous peoples were the first stewards of this land, their lives intricately connected to the salmon runs of the local creeks and the bounty of the Puget Sound. Later, homesteaders and farmers arrived, drawn by the fertile soil and the promise of a new life, slowly shaping the wild landscape into cultivated fields and modest homesteads. The development of transportation routes, including the vital ferry system connecting to the Kitsap Peninsula, gradually transformed Burien from a semi-rural outpost into a more connected suburban center. This evolution, marked by the gradual clearing of forests and the construction of homes and businesses, speaks to the persistent human drive to build and belong, to carve out a place for oneself amidst the grandeur of the Pacific Northwest. The economy of Burien is as varied as its terrain, a dynamic mix reflecting its strategic location and diverse population. While agriculture once played a more prominent role, today the industries are more varied, with a strong service sector, retail, and a growing presence in light manufacturing and aerospace support, given its proximity to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Education is a significant contributor, with Highline College serving as a vital hub for vocational training and higher learning, preparing students for the evolving job market. Infrastructure in Burien is well-established, with a network of arterial roads facilitating commuter traffic and a robust public transportation system connecting residents to the wider metropolitan area. The characteristic Puget Sound gray, a persistent atmospheric condition, seems to lend a certain introspective quality to the daily commerce, a quiet diligence in the pursuit of livelihood. Burien’s cultural landscape is a vibrant blend of local traditions and broader regional influences, marked by a spirited engagement with both college and professional sports, though its own teams often play in the shadow of larger metropolitan neighbors. The spirit of community is perhaps best captured in its annual events, such as the summer’s Burien Festival of Arts, which transforms the downtown area into a lively showcase of local talent and creativity, drawing residents and visitors alike. The natural beauty of the region is a constant source of inspiration and recreation; the trails along Des Moines Creek offer peaceful walks, and the waterfront parks provide opportunities for quiet contemplation or energetic play against the backdrop of the Sound. While no single individual might immediately spring to mind as universally synonymous with Burien on a national scale, the collective character of its residents, their dedication to their neighborhoods, and their appreciation for the unique Pacific Northwest environment, form the enduring narrative of this place.

About This Burien Map Page

This page provides an embedded street and satellite map of Burien, Washington — switch between views using the small square in the bottom left-hand corner of the map. Coordinates: 47.470377, -122.346792. Live weather conditions are sourced directly from the National Weather Service, with current observations and a 7-day forecast also powered by Open-Meteo. Real-time local news and world news feeds keep the page current, while a Wikipedia summary or an editorially written description provides background on Burien and King County.

Detailed location data for Burien includes the ZIP code (98166), telephone area code (206, 253), county seat of King County (Seattle), and school district assignment (Highline School District). These are among the most commonly searched location details for any US city or town.

Location data is drawn from the USGS Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) and cross-verified against 2020 US Census records by coordinate proximity — ensuring the correct Burien is identified even where the name is shared across multiple counties or states. Population figures are sourced from the 2020 US Census.