Major cities or towns:

Seattle
Bellevue
Kent
King County, Washington is a diverse and dynamic region that offers a unique blend of urban, suburban, and rural environments. Geographically, the county spans from the Puget Sound to the Cascade Mountains, providing a varied landscape with temperate rainforests, lakes, and mountains. The climate is mild, with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Demographically, King County is home to over 2.2 million residents, making it the most populous county in the state. The population is diverse, with a mix of ethnicities and a thriving LGBTQ+ community. The economy is robust, driven by industries such as technology, healthcare, and aerospace, offering a strong job market. The cost of living in King County is relatively high, with a competitive housing market, especially in the Seattle metropolitan area. However, the region boasts a well-regarded public education system, with several top-tier universities, including the University of Washington. Healthcare facilities in King County are extensive, with numerous hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. The region is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with a thriving arts community, museums, and a variety of entertainment options. Outdoor recreation is a major draw, with easy access to hiking trails, lakes, and the Puget Sound for water sports. The region's natural amenities, including the Cascade Mountains and the Salish Sea, offer ample opportunities for exploration and adventure. Transportation in King County is well-developed, with a comprehensive public transit system, including light rail, buses, and ferries. The infrastructure is generally reliable, though traffic congestion can be a challenge, especially in the Seattle area. In terms of safety and crime rates, King County is generally considered a safe place to live, with lower-than-average violent crime rates. The community vibe is diverse, with a mix of urban, suburban, and rural lifestyles, catering to a wide range of preferences and interests. Overall, King County offers a high quality of life, with a strong economy, excellent educational and healthcare resources, and abundant natural and cultural amenities. However, the high cost of living and traffic congestion may be drawbacks for some potential residents.

Demographics

Population

2.3M

Ethnicity %

White
58
Black
6
Asian
17
Hispanic
9

Median Age

37

Density

10 of 10

913 / Mile²

Avg Family Size

3.1

Religious

39%

Foreign Born

15%

Veterans

8.2%

Adult Smokers

10%

Adult Obesity

21%

Uninsured

6%

Excessive Drinking

20%

Poverty Rate

9.9%

Weather

Sunlight

1.7 hours winter dailyLeast sunny

Summer average temp

85°F

Winter max temp

42°F

Precipitation

73 in.

Snowfall (inches)

4.3 (avg)

Drought risk

Very Low

Earthquake risk

High

Wildfire risk

Very Low

Tornado risk

Low

Hurricane risk

Negligible

Crime

Rank: 2.1 of 10

(crimes per 1,000 people yearly)

Violent

4 (3.0)

Property

3 (14)

Assault

1 (0.1)

Larceny (theft)

3 (11)

Robbery

3 (0.4)

Burglary

2 (2.4)

Rape

1 (0.08)

Auto Theft

2 (0.8)

Murder

4 (0.06)

Arson

1 (0.02)

Driving deaths involving alcohol

31%

Politics and Law

State politics

Blue (Democrat)

Abortion laws

Legal until fetal viability

Marijuana laws

Legal for recreational use

Gun Laws

Permit required for concealed carry

Democrat

75%

Republican

23%

State Tax Burden

8.34%

Cigarette Tax

$3.025

Jobs

Income (per capita)

$111,117

Unemployment

0.8%

Employment

59.1%

Hours worked

40.8

Outdoors

Natural Amenities

6.3 / 10

Water Area

7.83%

Near park?

69%

Beaches

Within 1 hour

Mountains

Less than 1 hour

Tree Area

58%

Housing

Home Ownership

64%

Median Home Price

$814K

Average Rent

$2,300

Internet over 25mbps

76%

Transportation

Walkability

62

Cycling

61

Public Transit

54

Major Airport

<2 hours

Average Commute Time

28

Education

K-12 Test Scores

10 of 10  

(avg: 0.32)

College graduates

52%

Culture

Arts scene

98

Food awards per 100k

39.9