Kent is the sixth largest city in Washington State and the third largest city in King County, and even with a population of nearly 130,000 residents, we have a hometown feel and the capacity for continued growth. Kent is one of the fastest growing cities in the state and the tenth most culturally diverse city in the nation, located in the center of the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area.
Our city reflects our unique regional position and is well-connected, with a stop for the Sounder rail and positioned just minutes from one of the nation’s busiest airports and two seaports, which allows us to bring the world to America and America’s products to the world.
Nearly a third of our residents were born in another country, and more than 130 languages are spoken in Kent homes, businesses and schools. As a minority-majority city with forty percent of our residents speaking languages other than English, we recognize the tremendous value of the diverse perspectives and lived experiences of our residents, and we are committed to expanding our ability to communicate using inclusive and accessible language as effectively as possible.
As a testament to the city’s multicultural population, Kent offers some of the most unique international foods in the region, and boasts a bounty of ethnic restaurants, shops and boutiques.
Kent also offers a variety of green spaces including parks and trails that are great for walking, biking, relaxing, enjoying art and swimming. There are 73 parks, miniparks, playfields, skateparks, greenbelts, trails and other facilities, rivaling many other large cities.
Our city is also a hub for innovation and commercial distribution and is always seeking ways to attract and retain businesses and commerce. The Kent Industrial Valley is the fourth largest manufacturing and distribution center in the country, and generates one-eighth of the state’s GDP, totaling nearly $50 billion annually.
Kent is dedicated to building a thriving, sustainable and inclusive community through innovative leadership, inspired teamwork, and an unwavering devotion to responsibly advancing our quality of life. Kent has a great business climate and is a safe, connected and beautiful city that is culturally vibrant with richly diverse urban centers, and a place where businesses change the world.