Washington / Cowlitz County

Moving to Kelso, WA

Thinking of making a move to Kelso, WA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kelso, WA

Considering a move to Kelso, WA? This welcoming community of 12,670 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $285,000 and average rents near $1,130. Commute times average 21 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (46% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Kelso's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Kelso, WA

Kelso has a population of 12,670 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 35 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 82% White, 1% Black, and 2% Asian residents, and over 9% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
12,670
Density
1,800 per sq mi
Median Age
35.2
Gender Ratio
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
8.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
82.0%
Black
1.3%
Asian
1.6%
Others
15.1%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Kelso, WA?

The cost of living in Kelso is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 93.4. Median home values are around $285,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,130. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$285,000
Gross Rent
$1,130
Monthly Electricity Charges
$110
Auto Insurance
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,520
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$410
State Taxes
Low: 0%| High: 9.0%
Cost Of Living Index
93.4
Grocery
98.2
Housing
87.0
Utilities
97.1
Transportation
99.0
Health Care
102.5
Miscellaneous
95.0

Crime

Is Kelso, WA a safe place to live?

Kelso is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 345 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 31. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Washington.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
345
Property Crimes Per 100k
3,220
Crime Index
3,565
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 290
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 31

Weather

What is the weather like in Kelso, WA year-round?

Kelso experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 78°F and cold winters dipping to 34°F. The area receives about 51 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 46% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
34°F
Max
45°F

Summer

Min
52°F
Max
78°F

Spring

Min
42°F
Max
63°F

Fall

Min
43°F
Max
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches
50.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
46%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $54,900 and a low poverty rate of 18.8%. Over 88% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 13% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 21 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$29,800
Household Income
$54,900
Family Income
$62,300
Per Capita Income
$23,800
Income Male
$35,100
Income Female
$29,400
Poverty Rate
18.8%
Non English Speakers
8.5%
Rent
$1,130
Unemployment Rate
5.8%
Public Transport Usage
0.9%
Commute Time
20.7 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
87.6%
Bachelors or More
13.2%

Education

How are the schools in Kelso, WA?

Kelso offers quality education options, with public schools like Kelso High School and Beacon Hill Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Lower Columbia College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Kelso High School
Street
1904 Allen St
Phone
360-501-1800
Students
1,420
Student Teacher Ratio
20.1
Name
Beacon Hill Elementary School
Street
600 Roake Ave
Phone
360-501-1500
Students
410
Student Teacher Ratio
17.3

Private Schools

Name
Three Rivers Christian School
Street
2610 Ocean Beach Hwy, Longview
Phone
360-423-4510
Students
390

Colleges

Name
Lower Columbia College
City
Longview
State
WA
Distance
2 miles
Students
3,300

Healthcare

Kelso residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.7 per 1,000 people and 91.5% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center
Address
1615 Delaware St, Longview, WA 98632
Phone
(360) 414-2000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage
91.5%
Health Care Index
78.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Kelso, WA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $285,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 49%. The market has seen a 3.8% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.1%. Kelso offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$285,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,130
Owner Occupied Rate
48.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
3.8%
New Construction Rate
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate
0.8%

DMV Information

Residents of Kelso handle vehicle services through the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located in Vancouver. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Washington
Department
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address
11018 NE 51st Circle, Vancouver, WA 98682
Phone
360-902-3900

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.

FAQs About Moving to Kelso, WA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Kelso, review the core fields on this page: population 12,670, median home value $285,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,130, commute time 20.7 minutes, and sunny days percentage 46%.

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