Kirkland, WA vs. Kent, WA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which Seattle suburb gives you more for your money – Kirkland or Kent? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone weighing the real-life expenses of living in Kirkland vs Kent in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rents and home prices compare:
| Housing Type | Kirkland | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $2,400 | $1,900 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $950,000 | $650,000 |
🏆 Winner: Kent. A household moving from Kirkland to Kent could save $500/month on rent for a 2BR apartment, or roughly $300K when buying a home.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $200-250/month for electricity, water, sewer, and garbage for a 2BR apartment. Both have temperate climates, so heating and cooling needs are moderate.
🏆 Winner: Tie. No major difference in utility expenses.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries tend to cost about 5% less in Kent compared to Kirkland. A couple can expect to spend around $500-600/month on groceries in Kent vs $550-650 in Kirkland.
Eating out is also slightly cheaper in Kent, with entrees at local restaurants averaging $15-20 vs $18-25 in Kirkland.
🏆 Winner: Kent, but the difference is minor – under $100/month for most households.
4. Taxes and Fees
Washington has no state income tax, so the biggest tax factor is property tax. Rates are similar:
- Kirkland property tax rate: 0.92%
- Kent property tax rate: 1.01%
For a $600K home, annual property taxes would be about $5,520 in Kirkland vs $6,060 in Kent.
🏆 Winner: Kirkland, but only by a few hundred dollars per year for the average homeowner.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Kirkland | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $2,400 | $1,900 |
| Utilities | $225 | $225 |
| Groceries | $600 | $550 |
| Transportation | $100 | $80 |
| Taxes (Property) | $460 | $505 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,285 | $3,710 |
Note: Figures above are estimates of average monthly expenses and pre-tax income. Your actual cost of living will depend on your specific lifestyle and housing choices. See our guides on the average monthly expenses in Kirkland and detailed cost of living factors for more.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Kirkland is a bit more walkable and transit-friendly, while Kent offers more affordable space and easier parking. Kirkland averages about 5°F cooler than Kent in summer.
Kirkland has a vibrant downtown with upscale dining and boutiques, while Kent’s historic downtown is more low-key. Both are very safe with great schools.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Kirkland more affordable than Kent?
A: No, Kent is more affordable overall, primarily due to lower housing costs. However, Kirkland is only slightly pricier for things like utilities, groceries and taxes.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Kent has meaningfully lower rent. A typical 2BR apartment runs about $500 less per month compared to Kirkland.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Homes are significantly less expensive in Kent. Buying in Kent vs Kirkland could save around $300,000 on a 3BR house.
8. Conclusion
Kent is the clear winner on cost of living, thanks to much lower housing costs. It’s a great fit for families looking to stretch their budget with more space.
However, Kirkland is only marginally pricier for daily expenses, and many find the extra cost worthwhile for its lakefront setting, lively downtown, and easy access to Seattle. It’s ideal for young professionals who value walkability over square footage.
Considering other cities in the area? Check out our other cost of living breakdowns for popular destinations in Washington.