Kenmore Apartments and Rentals

Located on the northern shore of Lake Washington, Kenmore is a beautiful city with many inviting attractions. Family Circle Magazine named Kenmore as one of the 10 best towns for families, which is a testament to the city’s safe environment and highly-acclaimed school district. The city is home to a number of state and local parks with scenic nature trails and deep-rooted history. With more than 20,000 residents, Kenmore maintains a strong sense of community and a relaxed atmosphere. Look for Kenmore apartments for rent, and find a high quality of life on Lake Washington.

Kenmore was founded by John and Annie McMasters in 1901 and named after their hometown of Kenmore, Ontario. The couple leased land from Watson Squire to build a shingle mill on Lake Washington. Most access in and out of the city came by water, until the Seattle, Lake Shore and Eastern Railway brought improved connections to Seattle and other nearby cities. During the Prohibition era, Kenmore became an important part of the Seattle Jazz scene with its acclaimed restaurants and substantial illegal alcohol industry.

World War II drastically transformed downtown Kenmore, as the city’s proximity to Seattle led to post-war housing developments. This continued for several decades, resulting in a downtown revitalization in the mid-20th century. Kenmore was officially incorporated as a city in 1998, and today is one of Seattle’s most popular bedroom communities.

Kenmore is home to Bastyr University, which is the largest university for natural health, arts and sciences in the United States. The globally respected degree programs combine a multidisciplinary curriculum with cutting-edge research and clinical training. More than 1,000 students come to Bastyr each year to study naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, Oriental medicine, whole food nutrition, herbal sciences, exercise science, psychology and midwifery. The university runs research studies in the areas of oncology, neurology and detoxification, among others, which invite students to gain hands-on experience in their field. Bastyr University is joined by a number of other educational opportunities in the greater Seattle area.

For those seeking work, Kenmore boasts an independent economic core fueled by special trade contracting and durable goods as the city has one of the largest industrial ports on Lake Washington. Kenmore is home to many large companies including Kenmore Ready-Mix Pacific Topsoils, Michael Homchick Stoneworks, Plywood Supply, Alaska General Seafoods, The James G. Murphy Company and the Rinker Materials’ Kenmore manufacturing plant. Many people take advantage of these lucrative local opportunities and work in various business and office positions. Kenmore is also home to the headquarters of Kenmore Air, a regional seaplane airline that offers scheduled and chartered flights from Lake Washington. Local residents work in jobs to support the airfield and regional transportation.

Life on Lake Washington is very desirable, which unfortunately drives rent prices up in Kenmore. According to U.S. Census Bureau statistics the average apartment here costs $1,054 a month, which is $150 more than the Washington state average. Everyday living expenses are also relatively pricey in Kenmore. The city received a cost of living index of 113.1, which is above the national average of 100, according to city-data.com. Despite the costs, the scenic views and peaceful lifestyle of the Northwest keep Kenmore apartments in high demand.

Kenmore has many attractions tailored to the city’s unique culture. The Arts of Kenmore is a nonprofit organization that works to promote community enrichment through the arts. They sponsor a number of musical, visual and other performances throughout the year at the Northshore Performing Arts Center that Kenmore families can enjoy together. The Kenmore History Walk is another local favorite, inviting visitors to explore the past, present and future of Kenmore’s rich heritage through Log Boom Park.

Kenmore residents are also passionate about maintaining the natural beauty of their environment, and host events such as Beautify Kenmore to clean local parks, and a recycling event where residents can properly dispose of waste products.

To find a Kenmore apartment or rental, check out our apartment listings. Rent.com® is happy to help you find your next home.