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    Kelso

    Kelso city, Washington

    About Kelso

    Alright, let's talk about Kelso, Washington. Nestled in the heart of Cowlitz County, Kelso offers a refreshingly affordable lifestyle, a stark contrast to the escalating costs seen in many parts of the country. With a population of around 12,661, this town has a close-knit feel, where neighbors know neighbors. The median home value here sits comfortably at $260,000, significantly below the national average. This means you can get more bang for your buck, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable home without breaking the bank. Kelso has a relaxed pace, perfect for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, but with easy access to the amenities of nearby Longview and the broader Pacific Northwest.

    From an investment perspective, Kelso presents a compelling opportunity. The median household income is $59,405, and while it's less than the national average, the lower cost of living more than compensates. The housing market is stable, making it a viable option for first-time homebuyers or those looking to downsize. While I don't have specific unemployment figures, the local economy supports a range of industries, and the area is generally considered safe, making it a great place to raise a family. Kelso is ideal for those who value affordability, community, and a slower pace of life, without sacrificing access to the natural beauty and opportunities that the Pacific Northwest is known for.

    Kelso, Washington at a Glance

    Kelso is a city in Kelso city, Washington with a population of approximately 12,661. The median home value is $260,000 and the median household income is $59,405. It has a Walk Score of 0 out of 100, indicating car dependency. The violent crime rate is 0.1 per 1,000 residents, which is 97% below the national average. Air quality is rated Good. The overall climate risk is rated as "Very High." Median rent is $2,707 per month. Data sourced from the US Census Bureau, FBI Crime Data Explorer, EPA, Walk Score, and FEMA.

    Median Home Value

    $260,000

    Median Income

    $59,405

    Population

    12,661

    Walk Score

    0

    Air Quality

    AQI 38

    Good

    Climate Risk

    Very High

    Kurby ScoreLimited Data
    58
    C+

    Fair

    Affordability59/100
    Safety95/100
    Economy47/100
    Environment28/100
    Walkability & Transit: UnavailableEducation: Unavailable

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    Demographics
    Population
    12,661
    Median Age
    N/A
    Median Household Income
    $59,405

    20% below nat'l avg

    Bachelor's Degree+
    N/A
    Poverty Rate
    20.0%

    61% above nat'l avg

    Housing
    Median Home Value
    $260,000

    8% below nat'l avg

    Median Rent
    $2,707

    133% above nat'l avg

    Homeownership Rate
    94.0%

    43% above nat'l avg

    Affordability Index
    94

    6% below nat'l avg

    Safety
    Violent Crime Rate
    0.1 per 1K

    97% below nat'l avg

    Property Crime Rate
    37.0 per 1K

    95% above nat'l avg

    Livability
    Walk Score
    0 / 100

    100% below nat'l avg

    Transit Score
    N/A
    Bike Score
    N/A

    Want a detailed report for a specific address in Kelso?

    Air Quality
    AQI
    38

    10% below nat'l avg

    Category
    Good
    GoodModerateUnhealthy
    Climate Risk
    Overall Risk
    Very High
    Risk Score
    98.93

    Top Hazards

    Landslide
    Relatively High
    Avalanche
    Relatively High
    Inland Flooding
    Relatively High
    Noise Levels
    Overall
    Quiet
    Road Traffic
    N/A
    Aviation
    N/A
    Rail
    N/A
    Utility Costs
    Electricity Rate
    11.0¢/kWh

    34% below nat'l avg

    Est. Monthly Electric
    $99

    28% below nat'l avg

    Employment
    Unemployment Rate
    6.0%

    62% above nat'l avg

    Poverty Rate
    20.0%

    61% above nat'l avg

    Weather & Climate in Kelso

    Avg High

    53°F

    Avg Low

    38°F

    Annual Rainfall

    78.4"

    Avg Humidity

    81%

    Monthly Temperature (°F)
    Monthly Precipitation (inches)

    Political Landscape

    Political Leaning
    Strongly Democratic
    DemocratRepublican

    → Politically stable

    Based on King County county-level presidential election data

    Presidential Election Results

    Culture & Things to Do in Kelso

    Attractions & Landmarks
    🏛️Cowlitz County Historical Museum(museum)
    🌳Tam O'Shanter Park(park)
    🌳Lake Sacajawea Park(park)
    🎭Columbia Theatre(theater)
    🏗️Cowlitz River Bridge(landmark)
    📜Kelso High School(historic)
    Local Events & Festivals

    Cowlitz County Fair & Rodeo

    Annual fair featuring livestock, exhibits, carnival rides, and rodeo events.

    Kelso Highlander Festival

    A celebration of Scottish heritage with music, dance, and traditional games.

    Go Fourth! Kelso

    A community celebration with fireworks, food vendors, and family activities.

    Holiday in the Park

    Seasonal event with lights, activities, and holiday cheer.

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