Living & Working in Kent
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $685,000 . Buying analysis suggests higher upfront costs but potential long-term equity.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
East Hill
SUBURBANPanther Lake
SUBURBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Top-Rated School Districts in Kent, WA
- here School District ranks highly for diversity and athletics, with notable elementary schools like Grass Lake Elementary, Martin Sortun Elementary, and Sunrise Elementary (GreatSchools, U.S. News).
Childcare Costs
- Daycare: Monthly costs range from $1,200 to $3,500, depending on the facility and age group. For example, KinderCare and La Petite Academy are on the lower end (Reddit).
- Nanny: Rates average $3,000 to $4,500 per month for full-time care (Reddit).
Recommended Pediatricians or Family Clinics
- UW Medicine Primary Care at Kent-Des Moines: Offers pediatric services (UW Medicine).
- Kaiser Permanente the area Medical Center: Provides family and pediatric care ([Kaiser Permanente](https://healthy.kaiserperman
Work-Life Balance Culture in Kent, WA
here offers a mix of work-life balance opportunities, with companies like Blue Origin providing flexible work arrangements, though employee reviews highlight mixed experiences. The city's proximity to Seattle allows for a blend of urban and suburban lifestyles, with many residents commuting for work but enjoying quieter evenings. For job seekers, the Washington State Department of Licensing emphasizes work-life balance in its offerings, including flexible schedules.
Fitness Facilities
- Kent Commons Community Center: Features a fully-equipped gym, fitness classes, and recreational programs. Membership costs approximately $40/month for residents.
- Parks and Trails:
- Lake Meridian Park: Offers walking trails, a swimming beach, and picnic areas.
- Green River Natural Resources Area: A 300-acre space with hiking and biking trails.
- Gyms:
- LA Fitness: Located in here Station, memberships start at $29.99/month.
- Planet Fitness: Near the area East Hill, with memberships from $10/month.
Dining Costs
- Lunch: $10–$15 at casual spots like Taco Time NW (combo meals around $8–$12).
- Dinner: $20–$40 per person at mid-range restaurants like Asadero, where a meal with drinks averages $70 for two.
- Drinks: Happy hour specials
Financial Facts for Kent, WA
- State Income Tax Rate: Washington does not impose a state income tax on individuals, making Kent, WA, one of the few locations with no state income tax burden. For more details, refer to the Washington Department of Revenue.
- Property Tax Average: The median effective property tax rate in Kent is 1.05%, slightly higher than the national median of 1.02% but lower than the Washington state median of 0.88%. For specifics, see Ownwell.
- Cost of Living Compared to Seattle: The cost of living in Kent is 22.8% lower than in Seattle. For example, a salary of $73,667 in Seattle would maintain the same standard of living as $60,000 in here. Data sourced from Salary.com.
- Growing Industries Creating Jobs: Kent's economy is bolstered by industries such as aerospace, logistics, and advanced manufacturing. The city's strategic location near major transportation hubs supports job growth in these sectors. For updates, visit here 2044 Comprehensive Plan.
- Business Startup Climate: Washington offers resources like