Redmond vs Kent, WA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

Redmond, WA vs. Kent, WA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

Which city gives you more for your money – Redmond or Kent, Washington? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real costs of living in Redmond vs Kent in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).

A residential street in Redmond, Washington on a cloudy day with a sidewalk curving past mailboxes and suburban homes. — Redmond’s quiet, spacious neighborhoods come with a higher cost of living compared to Kent.

1. Housing Costs

Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Redmond and Kent stack up for common housing options:

Housing Type	Redmond	Kent
Median 2BR Apartment Rent	$2,400	$1,950
Median 3BR Home Price	$1.2M	$750K

🏆 Winner: Kent. Housing costs are significantly lower in Kent, with more affordable apartments and homes compared to pricier Redmond.

2. Utilities and Energy Costs

Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $200-250/month for electricity, gas, water, and garbage for a 2BR apartment. Both have similar climates, so heating and cooling needs are comparable.

🏆 Winner: Tie. No major difference in utility costs.

3. Groceries and Daily Expenses

A neighborhood commercial street in Kent, Washington at dusk with local shops, restaurant patios, and a few people walking. — Kent’s walkable neighborhoods and local businesses make it an appealing choice for cost-conscious residents.

Grocery prices are about 5% higher in Redmond compared to Kent. A gallon of milk averages $4.20 in Redmond vs $4 in Kent. Eating out is also pricier – a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Redmond runs about $70 for two, compared to $60 in Kent.

🏆 Winner: Kent. Expect to save on groceries and dining out in Kent.

4. Taxes and Fees

Washington has no state income tax. But Redmond has higher property taxes (0.92% vs 0.85% in Kent) and pricier utilities. In Redmond, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, adding $200-400/month. Kent HOAs are cheaper at $100-200/month.

🏆 Winner: Kent. Lower property taxes and fees add up to savings in Kent.

5. Cost Summary

Category	Redmond	Kent
Housing (2BR Rent)	$2,400	$1,950
Utilities	$250	$225
Groceries	$500	$475
Transportation	$100	$80
Taxes & Fees	$300	$200
Misc	$450	$400
Estimated Monthly Total	$4,000	$3,330

6. Lifestyle Fit

Redmond offers more space and quiet suburbs but longer commutes to Seattle. Kent has better public transit, walkability and urban conveniences. Kent averages 3°F warmer than Redmond year-round.

7. FAQ

Is Redmond more affordable than Kent? No, Kent has a lower overall cost of living.
Which city has lower rent? Kent is about 20% cheaper for a 2BR apartment.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Home prices are substantially lower in Kent – often by $300K+.

8. Conclusion

Kent comes out ahead for affordability, with lower costs for housing, food, and taxes. Redmond suits those prioritizing space and suburbia, while Kent offers an easier commute and urban perks on a budget. Drill down with our guides on how much it costs to live in Redmond each month or the full cost of living in Redmond in 2025.