Living in Kennydale: Waterfront Views, Parks & Suburban Comfort

Living in Kennydale: Waterfront Views, Parks & Suburban Comfort

Living in Kennydale offers a perfect blend of waterfront charm, suburban tranquility, and urban accessibility, making it one of Renton’s most desirable neighborhoods. Located on the eastern shore of Lake Washington, just north of downtown Renton, Kennydale attracts families, professionals, and retirees who appreciate its scenic beauty, outdoor lifestyle, and easy commute to Seattle and Bellevue.

With stunning lake views, waterfront homes, and access to parks and trails, Living in Kennydale provides a high quality of life in a neighborhood that fosters a strong sense of community. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly environment, top-rated schools, or a convenient location for commuting, Kennydale has something to offer for everyone.

Neighborhood Overview

Living in Kennydale offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, suburban tranquility, and urban convenience, making it one of Renton’s most desirable neighborhoods. Located in northern Renton along Lake Washington, Kennydale is a residential suburban community known for its waterfront and hillside homes, offering a mix of historic charm and modern luxury. The neighborhood has a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere, with a balance of old and new homes that appeal to a variety of homebuyers.

One of the standout features of Living in Kennydale is its easy access to outdoor recreation. Residents enjoy waterfront parks, walking trails, and proximity to I-405, making commuting to Seattle and Bellevue convenient. Nearby attractions like Downtown Renton, The Landing shopping district, and Newcastle provide ample shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The Kennydale Neighborhood Association (KNA) plays a vital role in fostering a strong community spirit, organizing events and initiatives that bring neighbors together. Whether you’re looking for lakefront living, a suburban retreat, or easy access to major employment hubs, Kennydale offers a high quality of life with a welcoming community.

Things to Do in and Around Kennydale

Living in Kennydale is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of recreational activities centered around Lake Washington and its surrounding parks. Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, spanning 57 acres along the southeastern shore, is one of Renton’s most popular destinations, featuring a swimming beach, a boat launch, two miles of walking trails, and dining options like Ivar’s Seafood Bar and Kidd Valley. For a quieter waterfront experience, Kennydale Beach Park provides a sandy swimming beach, playground amenities, and a launch area for canoes and kayaks, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor lovers. Additionally, the Cedar River Trail offers miles of scenic pathways, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, while The Golf Club at Newcastle, located just east of Kennydale, provides a premier golf experience with breathtaking views of Seattle.

For shopping and dining, The Landing in Renton is a major retail and entertainment hub, featuring stores like Target and Nordstrom Rack, alongside a variety of restaurants such as WildFin American Grill. Just a short drive away, Downtown Renton offers a charming mix of local boutiques, cafes, and breweries, perfect for those looking for a unique shopping and dining experience. Another exciting area is Southport, an emerging waterfront district adjacent to Kennydale, which boasts upscale restaurants and modern office spaces, attracting both professionals and visitors alike.

Living in Kennydale also means access to several entertainment and cultural attractions. The Hyatt Regency Lake Washington, located at Seattle’s Southport, offers luxurious accommodations, a full-service spa, and fine dining experiences with stunning lakefront views. For arts and cultural events, the Renton IKEA Performing Arts Center hosts concerts, theater performances, and community gatherings, enriching the neighborhood’s entertainment options. Sports fans will appreciate being close to the Seattle Seahawks Headquarters (VMAC), where the team practices, and fans can attend open sessions during the preseason to catch a glimpse of their favorite players in action.

With its abundant recreational opportunities, diverse shopping and dining options, and vibrant entertainment scene, Living in Kennydale provides residents with a well-rounded and fulfilling lifestyle, making it one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Renton, WA.

Kennydale Real Estate Market

Living in Kennydale offers a unique real estate landscape distinct from the broader Seattle market. As of January 2025, Kennydale’s median home sold price is $989,000, reflecting a 14.9% increase over the past year, with a median price per square foot of $473. In contrast, Seattle’s median home sold price stands at $849,552, marking a 6.5% rise year-over-year, and a median price per square foot of $566. These figures indicate that while both markets are appreciating, Kennydale is experiencing a more pronounced surge in home values.

Market activity also varies between the two locales. Homes in Kennydale typically remain on the market for 46 days, an increase from 32 days the previous year, suggesting a slight cooling in buyer urgency. Conversely, Seattle properties average 45 days on the market, up from 42 days last year, indicating a relatively stable pace.

These trends highlight Kennydale’s growing appeal, possibly due to its waterfront attractions, suburban tranquility, and proximity to urban centers. Prospective buyers and investors should consider these dynamics when evaluating opportunities in either market.

Key Real Estate Metrics: Kennydale vs. Seattle (January 2025)

Metric	Kennydale	Seattle
Median Home Price	$989,000	$849,552
Home Price Appreciation (YoY)	14.9%	6.5%
Median Price per Sq Ft	$473	$566
Days on Market	46	45
Median Rent (4BR Home)	$4,500	$3,800

Schools & Education

Kennydale, a neighborhood in Renton, Washington, offers a variety of educational opportunities for its residents. The primary public school serving this area is Kennydale Elementary School, catering to students from Kindergarten through 5th grade.​

Kennydale Elementary School

• Enrollment and Diversity: As of 2025, the school serves approximately 500 students with a student-teacher ratio of 17:1. The student body is diverse, comprising 30% Hispanic, 24.8% Asian, 23.4% White, 12.8% two or more races, and 8.6% African American students. This diversity score is higher than the Washington state average, reflecting a rich multicultural environment. ​
• Academic Performance: Kennydale Elementary ranks in the top 30% of all Washington schools for overall test scores. Specifically, 54% of students achieve proficiency in both math and reading, surpassing the state averages of 40% and 53%, respectively. Science proficiency stands between 60-64%, placing the school in the top 30% statewide.
• Ratings: The school holds a “B” overall Niche grade, ranking #416 among public elementary schools in Washington. Additionally, it has a 4/10 rating on GreatSchools, indicating room for improvement in certain areas. ​

Metric	Kennydale Elementary	Washington State Average
Math Proficiency	54%	40%
Reading Proficiency	54%	53%
Science Proficiency	62%	50%
Student-Teacher Ratio	17:1	18:1
GreatSchools Rating	4/10	N/A

Secondary Education

Students from Kennydale Elementary typically advance to McKnight Middle School and then to Hazen Senior High School. Both institutions are part of the Renton School District and offer a range of academic and extracurricular programs designed to support student development.​

Metric	McKnight Middle School	Hazen Senior High School	Washington State Average
Math Proficiency	50%	47%	40%
Reading Proficiency	52%	49%	53%
Science Proficiency	58%	55%	50%
Graduation Rate	N/A	92%	82%
GreatSchools Rating	5/10	6/10	N/A

Alternative Educational Options

For families considering alternative education, the Renton area provides several private and charter schools. Notable options include New Horizon School, praised for its individualized approach to learning. Additionally, the Home Program within the Renton School District offers a unique educational experience for students in grades 1-12, emphasizing rigorous, college-preparatory curricula.

Living in Kennydale ensures access to high-quality education, with a combination of top-rated public schools, private institutions, and alternative learning options. Whether families are looking for strong academic programs, extracurricular activities, or specialized learning environments, Kennydale provides a range of educational opportunities that support student success.

Transportation & Accessibility

Kennydale, a picturesque neighborhood in Renton, Washington, offers residents a blend of suburban tranquility and urban connectivity. While the area provides various transportation options, understanding its accessibility features is essential for both current and prospective residents.​

Public Transportation

• Bus Services: King County Metro operates several bus routes serving the Kennydale area. Notably, Route 111 connects downtown Seattle to Kennydale, providing weekday peak-hour service. Additionally, Route 105 offers connections within Renton, linking Kennydale to the Renton Transit Center and surrounding neighborhoods. These services facilitate commutes to major employment hubs and local destinations.​
• RapidRide: The RapidRide F Line serves the Renton area, connecting residents to destinations like Burien, SeaTac, and Tukwila. While the F Line doesn’t pass directly through Kennydale, nearby stations are accessible with a short commute, offering frequent and reliable service. ​

Commuting and Road Access

• Interstate 405 (I-405): Kennydale’s proximity to I-405 provides residents with convenient north-south travel. This major freeway connects to Bellevue, Kirkland, and Lynnwood to the north, and Renton, Tukwila, and SeaTac to the south. Access to I-405 facilitates efficient commutes to various employment centers and regional attractions.​
• Local Roads: The neighborhood is served by a network of local streets designed primarily for residential access. These roads are intended to discourage through traffic, ensuring a peaceful environment for residents. However, during peak hours, some congestion may occur near freeway on-ramps and major intersections. ​

Walkability and Bikeability

• Walk Score: Kennydale has a walk score of 16, indicating that most errands require a car. The suburban layout means that amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and retail shops are not typically within walking distance for most residents.​
• Bike Score: With a bike score of 28, Kennydale offers limited bike infrastructure. While some areas may accommodate cyclists, the hilly terrain and lack of dedicated bike lanes can pose challenges for daily commuting by bicycle. ​

Accessibility Services

• Access Transportation: For residents with disabilities preventing them from using traditional buses and trains, King County Metro’s Access Transportation program operates a network of accessible vans. This service ensures that all individuals have equitable access to public transportation, enhancing mobility for those with special needs.
• City Initiatives: The City of Renton is actively working towards barrier-free mobility. Residents can report specific barriers via the “Renton Responds” online tool, aiding the city’s efforts to identify and remove obstacles in public rights-of-way. Such initiatives demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and improved accessibility for all community members. ​

School Transportation

• Renton School District: The district provides free transportation for students living within their school attendance area but outside the designated walk zone. Typically, schools have a 1-mile radius walk boundary, and eligible students beyond this range are offered bus services. This ensures safe and reliable transportation for students attending local schools. ​

Parking and Traffic

• Residential Parking: Most homes in Kennydale come with private driveways or garages, offering ample parking for residents. Street parking is also available but may be limited in certain areas, especially near popular parks or during community events.​
• Traffic Considerations: While Kennydale enjoys a relatively peaceful ambiance, peak commuting hours can lead to increased traffic, particularly near I-405 access points. Residents should anticipate potential delays during morning and evening rush hours.​

Kennydale offers a blend of serene suburban living with accessible transportation options. While personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transport due to the area’s layout and walkability scores, public transit services and city initiatives are continually enhancing accessibility for all residents. Understanding these facets ensures that both current and prospective residents can navigate and appreciate all that Kennydale has to offer.

Pros & Cons of Living in Kennydale

Living in Kennydale offers a balance of scenic waterfront living, suburban charm, and convenient access to Seattle and Bellevue. While the neighborhood is highly desirable for its lake views, outdoor lifestyle, and strong community feel, it also comes with challenges like higher home prices, traffic congestion, and limited nightlife options. Below is a breakdown of the pros and cons of Living in Kennydale to help you decide if it’s the right place for you.

Pros	Cons
Beautiful Lake Washington Views – Many homes offer stunning waterfront or hillside views.	High Home Prices – More expensive than other parts of Renton.
Great Location – Quick access to Seattle, Bellevue, and Renton amenities.	Limited New Development – Low inventory makes buying competitive.
Outdoor Lifestyle – Close to waterfront parks, trails, and recreational activities.	Traffic on I-405 – Can be congested during peak hours.
Strong Community Feel – Active Kennydale Neighborhood Association organizes events.	Limited Nightlife – Mostly residential, with few entertainment options nearby.
High Property Values – Homes tend to appreciate over time.	Walkability is Low – Most errands require a car due to suburban layout.
Good Schools – Served by Kennydale Elementary, McKnight Middle, and Hazen High.	Limited Public Transit – Bus service is available but not as extensive as in Seattle.

Is Living in Kennydale Right for You?

Living in Kennydale is ideal for those who appreciate scenic waterfront views, suburban tranquility, and convenient access to major job centers like Seattle and Bellevue. Families are drawn to the area for its highly rated schools, safe streets, and strong sense of community, with Kennydale Elementary, McKnight Middle, and Hazen High School providing quality education. The neighborhood is also perfect for professionals and commuters, offering quick access to I-405 and short drive times to Bellevue’s tech hubs and Seattle’s downtown business district.

Outdoor enthusiasts love Living in Kennydale for its proximity to Lake Washington, waterfront parks, and trails like the Cedar River Trail, making it a great place for boating, fishing, biking, and walking. Retirees also find Kennydale appealing due to its peaceful residential environment, scenic beauty, and easy access to healthcare facilities in Renton and Bellevue. Additionally, homeowners and real estate investors see Kennydale as a highly desirable neighborhood with steady home value appreciation, thanks to its limited housing inventory and strong demand.

However, Living in Kennydale might not be ideal for those who rely heavily on public transit, as the area has limited bus routes and low transit scores. It also lacks nightlife and urban walkability, making it less appealing for those who prefer a vibrant, city-centered lifestyle. Additionally, home prices in Kennydale are higher than in other parts of Renton, which may be a challenge for buyers on a tight budget.

Overall, Kennydale is a fantastic place to live for those seeking a peaceful, scenic, and community-oriented neighborhood while staying close to major cities and outdoor recreation.

Final Thoughts on Living in Kennydale

Living in Kennydale offers the perfect balance of scenic beauty, suburban charm, and easy access to major job centers like Seattle and Bellevue. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly community with great schools, a peaceful lakeside retreat, or a solid real estate investment, Kennydale has plenty to offer. With strong property values, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a welcoming community atmosphere, it’s no surprise that Kennydale remains one of Renton’s most desirable neighborhoods.

If you’re considering buying or selling a home in Kennydale, let’s talk! I’m Emily Cressey with HomePro Associates—Call me at (206) 578-3438 to schedule a consultation and get a professional analysis of your property’s worth. For more market updates, home tours, and expert real estate tips, check out our YouTube channel and stay informed on all things Seattle real estate!