Our Company Culture, Norms, and Values

you can learn, grow, challenge yourself and give back - all in a culture of continuous improvement and caring for others.

Click Here to View Our Environmental, Social and Governance Report

Creating a better way to live

The following core values and cultural norms define our behavior, guide our decisions and advance our bold purpose of creating a better way to live every day.

Employees posing for a picture while doing community service

A Commitment to Integrity

A Spirit of Caring

A Focus on Continuous Improvement

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Hear from CEO Benjamin Schall about our
unique purpose and values-driven culture.

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Inclusion & Diversity

At AvalonBay, each of us brings something unique to the table, and our experiences, knowledge and perspective make us a diverse team, creating something greater than we ever could have alone. We are dedicated to creating an environment that encourages all voices to be heard, understood and appreciated. As we continue to grow and innovate, it’s important that we recruit, develop and promote associates with a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

Diversity and Inclusion Council around table looking at ideas in a notebook

Inclusion & Diversity Council

In 2018, we created our Inclusion & Diversity Council. Comprised of 13 associates from diverse personal, functional and geographic backgrounds, the goal of the council is to help ensure an inclusive and diverse culture where every associate has the opportunity to thrive and grow.

Building Networks & Affinity Groups

We encourage and support associates in creating networks within the company that foster stronger connections through community building events, internal and external affinity groups and diverse professionals organizations, like our Women’s Leadership Network.

Check Your Calendar

We’re proud to sponsor and promote diversity awareness campaigns year-round. Every February, we celebrate Black History Month. May is an opportunity to honor Hispanic Heritage. June is when we share our pride for our LGBTQ+ employees. And the entire month of November is a chance to show our support for our military veterans. We’re excited to continue to extend these campaigns to every region, including social events and networking opportunities.

"At AvalonBay, everyone has the opportunity to contribute, and different perspectives are valued and discussed openly."

Laura, Resident Services Coordinator

"I want people to be able to show up to work being their authentic self without judgement and I believe Candid Conversations is a great tool that can get us there. I look forward to moderating more conversations and educating everyone on humanity and diversity."

Jason, Senior Community Manager and Candid Conversations moderator

"I couldn't imagine being anywhere else. I am made to feel like a valued and respected team member. I have worked with many outstanding managers and supervisors who have helped develop my skills, enhance my strengths, and to excel and succeed."

Carmen, Maintenance Supervisor

"AvalonBay's culture was beyond my expectations -- we truly care about our associates and their development."

Lisa, Human Resources Manager

Giving Back Moves Us Forward

Rooted in our core value of A Spirit of Caring, AvalonBay has a long-standing history of giving back to our communities, the planet and each other.

View of a bridge and a city in the background

Environmental Sustainability at AvalonBay

Learn about how we’re doing our part to minimize our impact on the environment and support our communities.

Employees posing for a picture after doing community service

Spirit of Caring Month

Every year, we observe a Spirit of Caring Month dedicated to community volunteer efforts. Last year, our efforts produced:

100+ Volunteer Events
50+ Nonprofit Organizations Supported
2,000+ Participating Associates
6,500+ Volunteer Hours

Learn more about all our philanthropy efforts.

Shelters to Shutters & AvalonBay

Learn how we’re partnering with Shelters to Shutters in creating affordable housing and hiring those in need.

Employees posing for a picture after volunteering for the American Red Cross

Community Preparedness Week

Every year, we conduct a weeklong series of events aimed at improving resident and associate emergency and disaster preparedness. Residential Services leadership teams in each region select a hypothetical disaster or emergency specific to their region and conduct a preparedness planning session. For example: Earthquakes for Northern California.

We share your values and value your service

We have found that the skills, experience and leadership abilities you gained in the military translate exceptionally well at AvalonBay. Meet some of our veteran associates now: