Let the numbers do the talking.
Kent, WA vs Yakima, WA
Kent, WA vs Yakima, WA: What the data shows
Kent, WA is in Kent, WA while Yakima, WA is in Yakima, WA — both in the same state. On home prices, Yakima, WA is the more affordable option at $234,600 median — $259,800 less than Kent, WA's $494,400. WYLT rates Kent, WA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Yakima, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Kent, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Yakima, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Kent, WA has Low flood risk and Yakima, WA has Low flood risk.
Kent, WA is the more walkable neighborhood. Kent, WA scores 62/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Yakima, WA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Yakima, WA has the higher school rating — Kent, WA rates 6.7/10 and Yakima, WA rates 7/10.
| Category | Kent, WA | Yakima, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $494K | $235K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $935 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $99K ✓ Higher income | $56K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 62/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 28/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.7/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesRemote workersCommuters to Seattle | budget‑conscious home buyersremote workerssmall families |
Bottom line
If you're a family with a moderate budget or a commuter looking for a decent quality of life, Kent is the better choice. Its schools are slightly better, and it offers a higher median income for the home price, but be prepared for some drawbacks like slow internet and a longer commute. If budget is your top priority and you're willing to settle for limited amenities and a car-centric lifestyle, Yakima might be more suitable for you.
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