Let the numbers do the talking.
Bellevue, WA vs Kent, WA
Bellevue, WA vs Kent, WA: What the data shows
Bellevue, WA is in Bellevue, WA while Kent, WA is in Kent, WA — both in the same state. On home prices, Kent, WA is the more affordable option at $494,400 median — $1,367,800 less than Bellevue, WA's $1,862,200. WYLT rates Bellevue, WA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Kent, WA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Bellevue, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Kent, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Bellevue, WA has Low flood risk and Kent, WA has Low flood risk.
Bellevue, WA is the more walkable neighborhood. Bellevue, WA scores 88/100 (very walkable) versus Kent, WA's 62/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Bellevue, WA has the higher school rating — Bellevue, WA rates 8/10 and Kent, WA rates 6.7/10.
| Category | Bellevue, WA | Kent, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $1.86M | $494K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $158K ✓ Higher income | $99K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 88/100 ✓ More walkable | 62/100 |
| Transit Score | 36/100 ✓ Better transit | 28/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 45 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.7/10 |
| Best for | young professionalstech workersfamilies with children | FamiliesRemote workersCommuters to Seattle |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional, high-income earner, or have children, Bellevue's top-rated schools and robust tech economy might make it worth the premium price. However, if budget or traffic to Seattle are major concerns, Kent's lower costs and more affordable housing might be a better fit, especially for remote workers and commuters. Ultimately, consider Kent if price is a top priority, but Bellevue if career opportunities trump cost.
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