Kent, WA vs Downey, CA: 145 vs 169

$1,833/mo ↓ 3%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 3%

$90,416/yr ↑ 3%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↓ 3%

$537,500 ↓ 26%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 36%

$1,915/mo ↓ 4%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 4%

135,015

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Kent, WA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 145 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $59/month cheaper in Kent, saving renters about $708/year.

Median household income is $3,016/year higher in Kent. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Kent is $537,500 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Kent residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kent vs Downey — common questions

Is Kent or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kent is cheaper to live in with an index of 145 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Kent and Downey?

Median rent in Kent is $1,833/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $59/month.

Which city has higher income, Kent or Downey?

Median household income is $90,416 in Kent and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $3,016/year higher in Kent.

How do taxes compare between Washington and California?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Kent or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Kent has a cost index of 145 with median rent of $1,833/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Kent, WA vs Downey, CA (2026)

Kent

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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