Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kent, WA
Thinking about moving to Kent, WA? This vibrant city of 136,588 offers a diverse community and a lively cultural scene just outside Seattle. With a median home price around $552,000 and average rent at $1,870, Kent’s cost of living is above the national average but comes with access to solid schools, plenty of green spaces, and convenient transit options. Residents enjoy a mild climate, moderate commute times, and a variety of public and private education choices, making Kent a great pick for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Kent, WA
Kent, WA is home to 136,588 residents and features a youthful median age of 34.6, with a balanced gender ratio and a vibrant mix of cultures, including a significant Asian community and over 32% of residents who speak a language other than English at home. The city’s population density of 4,300 per square mile contributes to its lively, urban feel.
Population:
136,588
Density:
4,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.6
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
32.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
38.0%
Black:
11.6%
Asian:
23.4%
Others:
27.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kent, WA?
Kent's cost of living is higher than the national average, with a median house value of $552,000 and average rent of $1,870 per month. While groceries and transportation are also above average, the absence of state income tax in Washington helps offset some expenses for residents.
Median House Value:
$552,000
Gross Rent:
$1,870
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,620
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$820
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0% (sales tax)
Cost Of Living Index:
132.5
Grocery:
119.0
Housing:
164.0
Utilities:
92.0
Transportation:
130.0
Health Care:
112.0
Miscellaneous:
105.5
Crime
Is Kent, WA a safe place to live?
Kent experiences a moderate crime rate, with a chance of property crime at about 1 in 31 and violent crime at 1 in 275. While property crime is somewhat higher than average, violent crime remains relatively uncommon, and many neighborhoods take active measures to foster safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
363
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,194
Crime Index:
3,557
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 275
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Kent, WA year-round?
Kent offers a mild Pacific Northwest climate, with cool, wet winters averaging lows of 35°F and comfortable summers with highs around 79°F. The city sees nearly 40 inches of annual rainfall and about 44% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate moderate weather and lush surroundings.
Winter
Min:
35°F
Max:
47°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
79°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
44%
Neighbors
Residents in Kent enjoy a median household income of $81,500 and a family income of $91,000, with a poverty rate of 11.8%. Commute times average about 32 minutes, and the community is noted for its diversity and access to public transportation, used by nearly 8% of locals.
Median Income:
$36,200
Household Income:
$81,500
Family Income:
$91,000
Per Capita Income:
$34,800
Income Male:
$46,700
Income Female:
$41,200
Poverty Rate:
11.8%
Non English Speakers:
32.1%
Rent:
$1,870
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
7.8%
Commute Time:
32.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
86.5%
Bachelors or More:
29.4%
Education
How are the schools in Kent, WA?
Kent provides a range of educational options, from well-attended public schools like Kent-Meridian High to private institutions and nearby colleges such as Green River College. With over 86% of residents holding a high school diploma or higher, families benefit from quality education at all levels.
Public Schools
Name:
Kent-Meridian High School
Street:
10020 SE 256th St
Phone:
253-373-7405
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.1
Name:
Mill Creek Middle School
Street:
620 Central Ave N
Phone:
253-373-7446
Students:
820
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.5
Private Schools
Name:
Kent View Christian School
Street:
20115 108th Ave SE
Phone:
253-852-2040
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
Green River College
City:
Auburn
State:
WA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
7,100
Name:
Highline College
City:
Des Moines
State:
WA
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
12,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Kent is strong, with major clinics and hospitals like Valley Medical Center nearby and 91.4% of residents covered by health insurance. The city offers about 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring convenient medical care for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
MultiCare Kent Clinic
Address:
222 State Ave N, Kent, WA 98030
Phone:
(253) 372-7100
Type:
General & Outpatient
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Valley Medical Center
Address:
400 S 43rd St, Renton, WA 98055
Phone:
(425) 690-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
70.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kent, WA?
Kent's housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $552,000 and about 52% of residents owning their homes. The rental market is active, featuring a 5.8% vacancy rate, and home values have seen steady appreciation over the past year.
Median Home Price:
$552,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,870
Owner Occupied Rate:
52.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Kent is managed by the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located on 74th Ave S. Residents can access driver services, renewals, and more both in-person and through the state’s user-friendly website.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
25410 74th Ave S, Kent, WA 98032
Phone:
1-360-902-3900
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.