South King County

South King County, located south of Seattle and Lake Washington, includes cities such as Auburn, Federal Way, Kent, Renton, and Tukwila, as well as towns and unincorporated areas like Burien, Des Moines, Enumclaw, and Vashon Island. The region blends urban, suburban, and rural landscapes, with Kent and Federal Way serving as major residential and commercial hubs, Renton as a key employment center, and Enumclaw and Vashon Island offering more rural and island lifestyles. It's also home to the region's major airport - Sea-tac international. 

Photo by Michael B: https://www.flickr.com/photos/aboyandhisbike/3835383542
Photo by Michael B: https://www.flickr.com/photos/aboyandhisbike/3835383542

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Photo by Joe Mabel: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tukwila,_WA_-_looking_west_across_Duwamish_River_and_SR-99_from_Tukwila_International_Boulevard_02.jpg
Photo by Joe Mabel: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tukwila,_WA_-_looking_west_across_Duwamish_River_and_SR-99_from_Tukwila_International_Boulevard_02.jpg

Tukwila

Tukwila, Washington, is a diverse and vibrant community in King County that offers residents a mix of urban and suburban living. Known for its multicultural neighborhoods, Tukwila has a lively atmosphere with many restaurants, coffee shops, and parks, while also serving as a major hub for transportation, with access to Link Light Rail, Sounder commuter trains, Amtrak, and Metro Rapid Ride buses. The city balances economic growth with community engagement, focusing on creating thriving, self-sustaining neighborhoods and living-wage job opportunities. New developments, including affordable housing and senior living communities, make Tukwila an attractive option for a wide range of residents. With its rich cultural history, strong commercial presence, and convenient location near Seattle and Sea-Tac Airport, Tukwila is a dynamic place to live, work, and connect.

Des Moines

Des Moines is a waterfront city in King County with a population of 32,888 as of the 2020 census. Known as the “Boating Capital of the Pacific Northwest,” it offers a city-run marina, Saltwater State Park, and the Redondo neighborhood’s boardwalk and aquarium, making it a popular spot for recreation and waterfront access. Originally inhabited by the Coast Salish people, it became a permanent settlement in 1867 and later grew as a lumber milling hub before incorporating as a city in 1959. Today, Des Moines is a Seattle suburb recognized for its scenic views of Puget Sound, family-friendly lifestyle, and strong boating community.
 
 
 
Photo by Ron Clausen: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Des_Moines,_WA_marina_pier.jpg
Photo by Ron Clausen: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Des_Moines,_WA_marina_pier.jpg
Photo by Joe Mabel: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kent,_WA_-_footbridge_south_(upriver)_of_Van_Doren%27s_Landing_Park_02.jpg
Photo by Joe Mabel: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kent,_WA_-_footbridge_south_(upriver)_of_Van_Doren%27s_Landing_Park_02.jpg

Kent

Kent, Washington, is a vibrant city in King County with a population of about 135,000, making it the sixth-largest city in the state. It offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with many residents owning their homes and enjoying plentiful coffee shops, parks, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The city is known for its diverse community, strong economy rooted in aerospace, manufacturing, and distribution, and attractions like the Green River Natural Resources Area and the Hydroplane and Race Boat Museum. With affordable housing compared to nearby Seattle, excellent schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation, Kent provides a high quality of life for families, young professionals, and entrepreneurs alike.

Renton

Renton, Washington, is a thriving city in King County with a population of about 106,000, located just 11 miles south of Seattle on the shores of Lake Washington. Known for its diverse community and strong economy, Renton is home to major employers like Boeing and Paccar, as well as a growing retail and service sector. Popular attractions include Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, with its sandy beach and fishing pier, and the Renton History Museum, which highlights the city’s cultural heritage. While the cost of living and crime rates are higher than average, Renton offers excellent schools, abundant recreation, and vibrant neighborhoods like Kennydale, Renton Highlands, and Downtown, making it an appealing place for families and professionals.

Photo by Westernyankee: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Renton_sign.JPG
Photo by Westernyankee: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Renton_sign.JPG
Photo by Steven Pavlov: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Auburn_sign.jpg
Photo by Steven Pavlov: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Auburn_sign.jpg

Auburn

Auburn, Washington, located in King County, offers a dense suburban feel with many residents owning their homes and enjoying access to abundant parks, trails, and recreational spaces. Known for its cultural diversity and welcoming community, Auburn is often described as a melting pot where people from many backgrounds come together, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. The city combines small-town warmth with big-city convenience, thanks to its commuter train, proximity to Seattle and Tacoma, and a growing downtown filled with local businesses and attractions like Emerald Downs and the White River Amphitheater. While the cost of living is somewhat higher than the national average, Auburn balances this with affordable housing options relative to nearby urban centers, good schools, and a safe environment. With its blend of natural beauty, community spirit, and accessibility, Auburn continues to attract families, professionals, and entrepreneurs alike.

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