Planning a move to Kent, Washington? Located in King County and part of the Seattle metropolitan area, Kent is known for its diverse communities, thriving job market, beautiful parks, and convenient access to major cities like Seattle and Tacoma. Whether you’re relocating for work, affordability, or lifestyle, this guide by Mitchell Moving & Storage covers everything you need to know before moving to Kent, WA.
Why People Are Moving to Kent
Kent has grown significantly over the last decade, with its population now estimated at 135,000+ residents. Families, professionals, and retirees choose Kent because it offers:
- Lower housing costs compared to Seattle
- Easy access to major employers
- A strong public transportation network
- Highly diverse and welcoming communities
- Outdoor recreation, green spaces, and waterfront access
Kent ranks among the top 10 largest cities in Washington, making it a major residential and economic hub.
Cost of Living in Kent
Kent’s cost of living is 18–22% lower than Seattle’s, especially when it comes to housing. However, as part of King County, Kent is still slightly above the U.S. average.
Overall Cost Breakdown
| Category | Average Monthly/Annual Cost | Comparison |
| Median Home Price | ~$630,000 | Cheaper than Seattle (~$850k) |
| Average Rent (1BR) | $1,650–$1,900 | Moderate for King County |
| Average Rent (2BR) | $2,100–$2,350 | Lower than Seattle (~$2,800) |
| Utilities (Electric, Water, Trash) | $190–$230/mo | Slightly above national average |
| Internet | $70–$100/mo | Standard for metro areas |
| Groceries | 5–8% above national average | Similar to Tacoma |
| Transportation (Gas, Transit) | $150–$220/mo | Depends on commute |
| Overall Cost of Living Index | ~124 | US Average = 100 |
Key takeaway: Kent is more affordable than Seattle and Bellevue but still considered a mid-to-high-cost city.
Weather in Kent
Kent has the classic Pacific Northwest climate mild, wet, and cool.
Climate Snapshot
- Average summer highs: 74–80°F
- Average winter highs: 45–48°F
- Rainfall: ~42 inches annually
- Snowfall: 5–7 inches per year
- Best seasons: Spring and summer for outdoor activities
Residents experience a long rainy season but also enjoy beautiful summers and green landscapes year-round.
Crime Rate in Kent
Kent has a mixed crime profile. It has slightly higher crime rates than the national average but similar to other cities in King County.
Current Crime Statistics
- Overall Crime Rate: Around 20% higher than U.S. average
- Violent Crime: Slightly above the national average
- Property Crime: Higher due to vehicle thefts and burglaries
Safer neighborhoods generally include East Hill, the Covington area borders, and areas near Lake Meridian.
The Kent Police Department has been expanding community programs, and many neighborhoods have active watch groups, which help improve safety.
Job Market in Kent
Kent has a strong and diverse economy driven by manufacturing, aerospace, logistics, and retail distribution. It is one of the largest industrial centers on the West Coast.
Top Industries
- Aerospace & Aviation
- Manufacturing
- Distribution & Warehousing
- Logistics & Transportation
- Technology & Software
- Healthcare
Major Employers
- Boeing
- Blue Origin
- Amazon Fulfillment Centers
- REI Headquarters
- Sysco
- Alaska Airlines
- T-Mobile (nearby in Bellevue)
- Kent School District
Job Market Highlights
- Unemployment Rate: ~3.8% (lower than national average)
- Job Growth: Expected to rise by 33% over the next decade
- High demand for workers in warehousing, distribution, tech, and skilled trades
If you’re moving for work, Kent offers strong stability and access to the entire Puget Sound job network.
Education & Schools in Kent
The Kent School District is the fourth-largest in Washington, serving over 26,000 students.
School Ratings & Highlights
- A mix of highly rated and average schools
- Strong graduation rate (~88%)
- Excellent extracurricular activities, including STEM programs
- Diverse student population
- Access to nearby private and charter schools
Notable Schools
- Kentridge High School
- Kentlake High School
- Panther Lake Elementary
- Mill Creek Middle School
For higher education, students have access to nearby institutions:
- Green River College
- Highline College
- University of Washington Tacoma (25 minutes away)
- Seattle University (30 minutes away)
Best Neighborhoods in Kent
Kent offers a mix of suburban neighborhoods, urban-style living, and quiet family areas. Here are the top places to consider.
1. East Hill
- Safe, quiet, family-friendly
- Close to schools, parks, and shopping
- Mostly single-family homes
- Great for commuters
2. Lake Meridian
- Waterfront properties and lake views
- Higher-end homes
- Popular for families and retirees
3. The Lakes
- Master-planned community
- Walking trails, lakes, and open spaces
- Modern homes and condos
4. Scenic Hill
- Elevated views of the city
- Close to downtown Kent
- Larger homes and peaceful streets
5. Panther Lake Area
- Affordable housing options
- Good rental availability
- Easy access to major highways
These neighborhoods vary in pricing, lifestyle, and amenities, offering something for every type of resident.
Things to Do in Kent
Kent offers a great balance of outdoor activities, family attractions, and cultural experiences.
1. ShoWare Center
A major arena hosting concerts, sports events, and community shows.
2. Green River Trail
Perfect for biking, jogging, and walking along scenic river views.
3. Kent Station
Outdoor shopping district with restaurants, boutiques, theaters, and seasonal events.
4. Lake Meridian Park
Swimming, kayaking, fishing, and summer lakeside fun.
5. Hydroplane & Raceboat Museum
A unique local attraction celebrating racing history and hydroplane boats.
6. Clark Lake Park
A peaceful nature escape with hiking trails and wildlife viewing.
7. Golf Opportunities
The Riverbend Golf Complex offers affordable golfing and lessons.
8. Local Dining
Kent’s diverse community brings exceptional food:
- Thai
- Korean BBQ
- Vietnamese
- Ethiopian
- Mexican
- American comfort food
You’ll find a growing dining scene around Kent Station and East Hill.
Public Transportation & Commuting
Kent has excellent regional connectivity.
Transit Options
- Sounder Train: Quick commute to Seattle or Tacoma
- King County Metro Buses
- Access to I-5, SR-167, and I-405
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport: Just 15–20 mins away
Commuters to Seattle enjoy shorter travel times compared to many nearby suburbs.
Pros and Cons of Living in Kent
Pros
- More affordable than Seattle
- Strong job market and major employers
- Excellent transportation options
- Diverse community
- Plenty of parks and outdoor recreation
- Good schools and family-friendly neighborhoods
Cons
- Higher-than-average property crime
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Rainy winters and cloudy days
- Cost of living still above the U.S. average
Is Moving to Kent Worth It?
If you want access to Seattle’s job market without Seattle’s housing prices, Kent is an excellent choice. It offers a strong economy, diverse neighborhoods, outdoor activities, and a convenient location within the Puget Sound region. For families, professionals, commuters, and retirees, Kent provides a balanced lifestyle with something for everyone.
And when you’re ready to relocate, our moving company is here to help with packing, moving, storage, and safe transportation throughout Washington.