Renton, WA vs. Kent, WA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
When choosing between the Seattle suburbs of Renton and Kent, many assume Kent is more affordable. But is that really true in 2025? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life monthly expenses of living in Renton vs Kent.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Renton and Kent stack up for typical housing options, based on median gross monthly prices:
| Housing Type | Renton | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,350 | $2,100 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $3,600 | $3,400 |
🏆 Winner: Kent. Housing costs an estimated 10-15% less in Kent compared to Renton.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $180-250 per month for electricity, gas, water, and garbage for a 2BR apartment, with costs rising in the winter. Both cities offer level pay plans to help manage seasonal spikes.
🏆 Winner: Tie. No significant difference in utility costs.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices are comparable in Renton and Kent. A typical family of four might spend $800-1000 per month on groceries in either city. Eating out is also similarly priced, with a nice dinner for two averaging $70-90.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Expect to pay about the same for food and daily goods.
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are slightly higher in Renton at 0.97% vs 0.92% in Kent. For a $500K home, that’s a difference of about $20 per month. City utility fees and average HOA dues are nearly identical.
🏆 Winner: Kent, but just barely. The typical household might save $20-30/month on taxes in Kent.
Cost Summary
| Expense | Renton | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR mortgage) | $3,600 | $3,400 |
| Utilities | $250 | $250 |
| Groceries | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $200 | $200 |
| Taxes & Fees | $500 | $480 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $6,050 | $5,830 |
All figures are gross monthly pre-tax estimates. For more details, see our guides on Sample Monthly Budgets for Renton in 2025 and Cost of Living in Renton: Your Monthly Budget Guide for 2025.
Lifestyle Fit
While Kent offers modest savings, Renton has advantages that can offset the difference for some households:
- Renton is more walkable and bike-friendly
- Renton has a wider variety of housing, from urban condos to large single-family homes
- Renton’s downtown is more vibrant with local shops and restaurants
- Renton averages 5°F warmer than Kent in the winter
Kent’s key advantages include:
- More affordable housing options
- Slightly lower taxes
- Closer to outdoor recreation like hiking and skiing
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Renton more affordable than Kent?
A: Not quite. Kent has a slight edge with housing costs about 10-15% lower than Renton.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Kent. The median rent for a 2BR apartment is about $250 less per month compared to Renton.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Again, Kent. Expect to pay around $200 less per month on a typical mortgage in Kent vs Renton.
Conclusion
Kent comes out ahead on pure cost of living in 2025, with lower housing costs and taxes giving it the overall edge. A household moving from Renton to Kent might save $200-300 per month on expenses.
However, Renton’s walkability, housing variety, and lively downtown still make it attractive for those who value those lifestyle factors and can afford the premium. Young professionals and empty nesters often prefer Renton, while families and outdoor enthusiasts may find Kent a better fit.
Ultimately, both Renton and Kent provide a high quality of life for a reasonable cost compared to Seattle proper or the Eastside tech hubs. The choice comes down to your household priorities and budget.