Let the numbers do the talking.
Kent, WA vs Renton, WA
Kent, WA vs Renton, WA: What the data shows
Kent, WA is in Kent, WA while Renton, WA is in Renton, WA — both in the same state. On home prices, Kent, WA is the more affordable option at $494,400 median — $32,300 less than Renton, WA's $526,700. WYLT rates Kent, WA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Renton, WA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Kent, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Renton, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Kent, WA has Low flood risk and Renton, WA has Low flood risk.
Kent, WA is the more walkable neighborhood. Kent, WA scores 62/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Renton, WA's 48/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Renton, WA has the higher school rating — Kent, WA rates 6.7/10 and Renton, WA rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Kent, WA | Renton, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $494K ✓ Lower price | $527K |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $99K ✓ Higher income | $68K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 62/100 ✓ More walkable | 48/100 |
| Transit Score | 28/100 | 39/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 40/100 ✓ 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 ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.7/10 | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesRemote workersCommuters to Seattle | Families looking for good schoolsFirst‑time homebuyers with a moderate budgetRemote workers who need a quiet environment |
Bottom line
For families seeking good schools, Renton 98057 might be a slightly better choice, as it has a higher school rating (6.9/10) and a more affordable housing market, despite its lower walk score. On the other hand, Kent might be preferable for college graduates, remote workers, or those seeking a more moderate commute to Seattle. Overall, both neighborhoods are viable options, but they cater to different lifestyles and priorities.
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