Best Areas to Live in Kent

Kent's most frequently cited residential draws cluster around the walkable downtown/KSU-campus core and the surrounding, more suburban Portage County communities.

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The walkable downtown/KSU-campus core

Neighborhoods near Kent State University's campus and downtown Kent offer genuine walkability and proximity to campus life, popular with faculty, staff, and students.

The surrounding Portage County communities

Outside the compact core, the broader Portage County area offers a more suburban, car-dependent living character for those prioritizing space over walkability.

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Key takeaways

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Last reviewed: 2026-08-25. Independent research; not financial, tax, or legal advice -- confirm current figures with a local professional before making a decision.