Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kennewick, WA
Thinking of moving to Kennewick, WA? With a population of nearly 85,000 and a median home price around $375,000, Kennewick offers affordable housing and a reasonable cost of living. Residents enjoy short 21-minute commutes, 68% sunny days each year, and access to local healthcare and schools. While property crime is higher than the national average, the city stands out for its family-friendly neighborhoods, mild winters, and close-knit community feel—making it a popular choice in the Tri-Cities region.
Demographics - Kennewick, WA
Demographics - Kennewick, WA
Kennewick is a growing city of nearly 85,000 residents, with a median age of 34.6 and a diverse population where around 18% speak a language other than English. The community features a balanced gender ratio and a mix of ethnic backgrounds, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
84,960
Density:
2,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.6
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
67.8%
Black:
1.7%
Asian:
2.0%
Others:
28.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kennewick, WA?
Kennewick offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $375,000 and average rents around $1,370. Utilities and everyday expenses are generally lower than the national average, and Washington's 0% state income tax helps residents keep more of their earnings.
Median House Value:
$375,000
Gross Rent:
$1,370
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,820
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
99.4
Grocery:
97.2
Housing:
93.5
Utilities:
94.6
Transportation:
102.3
Health Care:
98.7
Miscellaneous:
97.0
Crime
Is Kennewick, WA a safe place to live?
While Kennewick enjoys a welcoming community, property crime rates are higher than the national average, with residents facing a 1 in 37 chance of property crime and a lower risk for violent crime at 1 in 361. Staying aware and taking standard precautions can help ensure peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
277
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,720
Crime Index:
2,997
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 361
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 37
Weather
What is the weather like in Kennewick, WA year-round?
Kennewick experiences four distinct seasons with mild winters averaging highs in the low 40s and warm summers reaching into the 90s. The city sees only about 7.7 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 68% sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
7.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
68%
Neighbors
The city’s household income averages around $66,000, with a family-friendly atmosphere and an average commute of just 21 minutes. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the community is known for its diverse backgrounds and strong sense of local pride.
Median Income:
$35,700
Household Income:
$66,420
Family Income:
$74,200
Per Capita Income:
$29,850
Income Male:
$41,700
Income Female:
$35,200
Poverty Rate:
13.1%
Non English Speakers:
18.3%
Rent:
$1,370
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
21.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.9%
Bachelors or More:
23.5%
Education
How are the schools in Kennewick, WA?
Kennewick offers a range of educational opportunities, including public schools like Kamiakin High School and Sunset View Elementary, as well as private options and nearby colleges such as Columbia Basin College and Washington State University Tri-Cities. Families benefit from reputable local schools and higher education within a short drive.
Public Schools
Name:
Kamiakin High School
Street:
600 N Arthur St
Phone:
509-222-7000
Students:
1,800
Student Teacher Ratio:
21.2
Name:
Sunset View Elementary
Street:
711 N Center Pkwy
Phone:
509-222-6100
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.1
Private Schools
Name:
Tri-Cities Prep
Street:
9612 St Thomas Dr
Phone:
509-546-2465
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
Columbia Basin College
City:
Pasco
State:
WA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
7,000
Name:
Washington State University Tri-Cities
City:
Richland
State:
WA
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Kennewick residents have access to quality healthcare, including local hospitals like Trios Health Southridge Hospital and nearby Kadlec Regional Medical Center. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% health insurance coverage, the city offers solid medical support for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Trios Health Southridge Hospital
Address:
3810 Plaza Way, Kennewick, WA 99338
Phone:
(509) 221-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Kadlec Regional Medical Center (nearby)
Address:
888 Swift Blvd, Richland, WA 99352
Phone:
(509) 946-4611
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
71.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kennewick, WA?
Kennewick's housing market remains accessible, with a median home price of $375,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 61%. Rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $1,370, and the community has experienced steady home appreciation over the past year.
Median Home Price:
$375,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,370
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Kennewick are managed by the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located on W Clearwater Ave. Residents can access registration, licensing, and other DMV services both in person and online through the state website.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
3311 W Clearwater Ave #200, Kennewick, WA 99336
Phone:
(360) 902-3900
Website:
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.