Kennewick, WA
Why You’ll Love Living in Kennewick, Washington
Kennewick, Washington, is one of the fastest-growing regions in the state, and it’s easy to see why. As part of the Tri-Cities, Kennewick is located on the southwest bank of the Columbia River. The city of 86,358 is a year-round recreation hub with fantastic Pacific Northwest golf courses, a couple dozen parks – including Columbia Park, which is perched on the river – and a cute historic downtown lined with local shops, restaurants and art galleries.
Thinking of moving to Kennewick, Washington? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Kennewick, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Kennewick, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Kennewick, WA, a Best Place to Live in 2024
As one of the best places to live in the U.S., Kennewick residents can get around the region easily thanks to Ben Franklin Transit’s bus routes that connect cities in Southeastern Washington. The Tri-Cities also have a bevy of outdoor amenities, which make it easy to get out and enjoy nature – whether it’s hiking Badger Mountain or seeing the wildflowers that freckle the Candy Mountain Trail. Of course, getting out on the water to paddleboard or float is a no-brainer come summer since the Tri-Cities region is located at the confluence of the Columbia, Snake and Yakima rivers. Kennewick also has a noteworthy wine scene with more than 200 wineries within a one-hour radius. Badger Mountain Certified Organic Vineyard is a great place to get an introduction to Washington wine; the winery has been making organic vino since 1990, long before it was trendy.
Kennewick, WA Quality of Life LivScore
Kennewick, WA Top Categories
Environment
Housing & Cost of Living
Transportation
Kennewick ranks highest for environment, housing and transportation.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Kennewick, WA
Winters are cold and snowy, but warm summers make up for it. The average highs and lows in Kennewick are 88°F and 59°F (summer) and 43°F and 29°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Kennewick is typically less than 3 inches.
The average annual rainfall in Kennewick is significantly less than the national average at just 8 inches per year.
Kennewick averages 300 sunny days a year.
Play a game of foot golf at the Columbia Park Golf Tri-Plex. The sport involves using your feet to kick a ball towards a hole.
Things To Do in Kennewick, WA
Go for a walk along the Columbia River and bring a picnic to enjoy in Columbia Park.
The Playground of Dreams is a premier park with a cable bridge, lighthouse and fun play structures. The park was designed with inclusive features so kids with wheelchairs or mobility limitations can play on the equipment.
The name “Kennewick” is believed to be a native word meaning “grassy place.” The city is also known as a “winter paradise,” mostly because of the mild winters in the area.
Grab some fresh-grown food and spend an afternoon at the nearby Pasco Farmers Market, which is Washington’s largest open-air fresh produce market.
Europa allows diners to take a culinary tour of Spain and Italy with its vast menu from pasta to paella.
The Toyota Center is a multipurpose arena that hosts comedy shows, performing arts acts and concerts from both nationally touring artists and local bands alike.
Get your coffee fix at Manny’s Coffee House, which also sells Italian sodas and smoothies.
The Local and State Economy in Kennewick, WA
Kennewick’s diverse economy is supported by several significant industries. The most prominent of these are agriculture and food processing, health care and social assistance, and retail and trade services.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Kennewick is 8.7%
No, Washington does not have a state income tax.
Kennewick’s location in the Tri-Cities area of Washington State gives residents access to a great variety of health care providers and facilities. Trios Health Southridge Hospital is one of the leading providers in the area, offering a comprehensive range of services.
Although there aren’t any major colleges and universities in Kennewick, several higher education institutions are within driving distance.
Weather in Kennewick, WA
Average Temperatures
65 High / 42 Low
Average Annual Rainfall
8 Inches
Average Annual Snowfall
3 Inches
Quick Facts about Kennewick, Washington
- Median Home Value
- $337,311
- Median Property Tax
- $2,753
- Total Population
- 86,358
- Average Commute
- 18 min
- Median Household Income
- $76,737
- Median Rent per Month
- $930
