Cost of Living: Seattle, WA vs Kent, WA (2026)

Seattle

Washington
196
VS

Kent

Washington
145

Seattle is 35% more expensive than Kent.

$1,998/mo ↑ 9%
Median Rent
$1,833/mo ↓ 8%
$121,984/yr ↑ 35%
Median Income
$90,416/yr ↓ 26%
$912,100 ↑ 70%
Home Value
$537,500 ↓ 41%
$2,220/mo ↑ 16%
Owner Costs
$1,915/mo ↓ 14%
741,440
Population
135,015

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
0.92%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

19.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Kent, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 145 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $165/month cheaper in Kent, saving renters about $1,980/year.

Median household income is $31,568/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $537,500 in Kent.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Washington.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Kent — common questions

Is Seattle or Kent cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Kent is cheaper to live in with an index of 145 compared to 196 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Seattle and Kent?
Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Kent it's $1,833/month — a difference of $165/month.
Which city has higher income, Seattle or Kent?
Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $90,416 in Kent. Median household income is $31,568/year higher in Seattle.
How do taxes compare between Washington and Washington?
Both cities are in Washington and share the same state tax rates: 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Seattle or Kent?
It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/mo, while Kent has a cost index of 145 with rent of $1,833/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Seattle details → View Kent details →

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