Kent, WA is a city in King County, Washington, United States. It is part of the Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue metropolitan area and had a population of 136,588 as of the 2020 census, making it the fourth-largest municipality in greater Seattle and the sixth-largest in Washington state. It was incorporated in 1890 and is the second-oldest incorporated city in King County, after Seattle.
Some of the things you can do in Kent are:
- Visit Kent Station, a great place for restaurants, entertainment and shopping.
- Watch a hockey game at ShoWare Center, a 6,500-seat arena that hosts the Seattle Thunderbirds.
- Explore the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum, the only museum in the country dedicated to powerboat racing.
Home to approximately 130,000 residents, Kent is a city that values its diverse community, robust economy, and quality of life. Its residents enjoy a median household income higher than the national average, reflective of the city’s thriving economic landscape.
Education in Kent is commendable, with schools consistently working towards improving student achievement. The city’s close proximity to educational powerhouses like the University of Washington and Seattle University adds to the intellectual vibrancy of the area.
When it comes to safety, Kent is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for its residents, with crime rates comparable to the national average and active community policing initiatives.
City Comparison:
Compared to other Washington cities like Seattle or Bellevue, Kent offers a unique blend of economic vitality, diverse culture, and natural beauty. It’s a city that’s proud of its robust economy, its vibrant cultural scene, and its stunning landscapes, offering a quality of life that’s both dynamic and serene.
While the cost of living in Kent is higher than the national average, it is reflective of its location within the prosperous Seattle metropolitan area. However, housing in Kent is more affordable compared to many other cities in the region, offering an attractive option for those seeking the charm of the Pacific Northwest at a more accessible price point.
Conclusion:
Kent, WA is a city where economy thrives, culture is diverse, and community bonds are strong. With its robust economy, diverse cultural scene, affordable housing, and stunning natural beauty, Kent stands as a city that both inspires and welcomes. Discover Kent—where urban progress meets rural charm, the community welcomes you, and a high-quality lifestyle awaits. It’s a place you’d be proud to call home.
FAQs
10 interesting FAQs about Kent, WA, along with their answers:
1. What is the population of Kent, WA?
The population of Kent, WA is 105,322 as of 2020.
2. What is the median income in Kent, WA?
The median income in Kent, WA is $72,850 as of 2020.
3. What is the cost of living in Kent, WA?
The cost of living in Kent, WA is 104.8% of the national average.
4. What is the climate like in Kent, WA?
Kent, WA has a temperate climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Kent, WA has a marine west coast climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. It is characterized by cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. In a typical year, temperatures in Kent, Washington fall below 50°F for 229 days per year. The summers in Kent are short, warm, dry, and partly cloudy, while the winters are very cold, wet, and mostly cloudy. The average high temperature in January is 44.6°F, while the average high temperature in July is 76.5°F. The months of June, July, August, and September are the most likely to experience good weather with pleasant average temperatures that fall between 20 and 25°C (68°F and 77°F).
5. What are the major industries in Kent, WA?
The major industries in Kent, WA are manufacturing, aerospace, and retail. Some of the biggest companies in Kent, WA include OMAX, REI, Digital Control, Columbia Distributing Of Seattle LLC, Novinium, Flow Waterjet, and Exotic Metals. The Kent Chamber of Commerce lists some of the major employers in Kent, but does not provide information on the industries they belong to. Additionally, a list of the 50 largest companies in Kent, WA by revenue includes Wells Fargo, Amazon, and Walmart, but again, does not provide information on the industries they belong to. The state of Washington has key sectors that bring focus to high growth industries, including aerospace, agriculture and food manufacturing, clean technology, creative economy, and forest products.
6. What are some of the things to do in Kent, WA?
Visit the Kent Waterpark, go hiking at the Green River Gorge, and shop at Kent Station are just a few of the things to do in Kent, Washington. Kent, Washington, offers a variety of activities for visitors. Here are some of the things to do in Kent, WAs:
- Take a tour through Greater Kent Historical Society Museum.
- Admire art at Centennial Center Gallery.
- Learn the history of hydroplanes.
- Go fishing at Lake Meridian Park.
- See fascinating earth sculptures at Mill Creek Canyon Earthworks Park.
- Hike the Soos Creek Trail.
- Visit the shops downtown.
- Taste award-winning beer, wine, and spirits made in Kent.
- Spend a day on family-friendly bike trails or a sandy shore.
- Enjoy live performances at the nearby casino.
- Visit the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area.
- Cheer sports champs in action.
- Visit the Greater Kent Historical Society Museum.
- Explore the Green River Valley, West Hill, and East Hill.
- Visit the Kent Station entertainment center.
- Play arcade games at 8 Bit Arcade Bar.
- Go kart racing at PGP Motorsports Park.
- Go indoor kart racing at Sykart Indoor Racing Center.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, outdoor activities, or entertainment, Kent has something to offer.
7. What are some of the schools in Kent, WA?
Some of the schools in Kent, WA include Kent-Meridian High School, Kent-Des Moines School District, and Kent Technical College.
8. What are some of the parks in Kent, WA?
Some of the parks in Kent, WA include Kent Waterpark, Green River Gorge, and Kent Station.
9. What are some of the neighborhoods in Kent, WA?
Some of the neighborhoods in Kent, WA include downtown Kent, Covington, and Auburn.
10. How can I get to Kent, WA?
Kent, Washington, is reachable by automobile, train, or airplane. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, which is roughly 20 miles distant, is the closest airport. Kent Station, which is found in Kent’s central business district, is the closest train station. Interstate 5 and State Route 167 are other options for getting to Kent by car.