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Growing Community Guide

Moving to Covington, WA:
A Community on the Rise

Discover why families are flocking to Covington - one of South King County's fastest-growing communities. With new construction homes, excellent Kent schools, Lake Sawyer recreation, and easy highway access, Covington offers the perfect blend of suburban tranquility and modern convenience.

40%+ Population Growth Since 2010

Why Choose Covington?

Covington is perfect for: Growing families seeking new construction homes, professionals wanting affordable housing with Seattle access, and anyone who values community, schools, and outdoor recreation. Expect newer neighborhoods, excellent schools via Kent School District, and Lake Sawyer at your doorstep.

Covington By The Numbers

See why Covington is one of Washington's most exciting communities for new residents

0+
Population
0%
Growth Since 2010
0
Acres of Lake Sawyer
0
Miles to Seattle

Key Facts About Covington

Population ~21,000
Growth Rate 40%+ since 2010
School District Kent School District
Housing Type New Construction
Distance to Seattle ~25 miles SE
Major Highways SR-18, Hwy 516
Recreation Lake Sawyer, Parks
State Income Tax None
Character Family-Oriented
Retail Covington Town Center

Why Covington is One of Washington's Fastest-Growing Communities

Covington represents the new face of South King County - a rapidly expanding community that has transformed from a quiet rural area into a thriving suburban destination. Since incorporating as a city in 1997, Covington has experienced explosive growth, attracting families seeking affordable new construction homes, excellent schools, and a genuine sense of community that's increasingly rare in the Seattle metropolitan area.

What sets Covington apart is its intentional development. Unlike older suburbs that grew organically over decades, Covington's modern neighborhoods were master-planned with families in mind. Wide streets, generous lots, community parks, and thoughtful retail centers define the landscape. The result is a community that feels both new and established - with modern amenities and infrastructure, yet surrounded by natural beauty including the stunning 290-acre Lake Sawyer.

The appeal is undeniable: where else in the Seattle metro can you find a brand-new 2,500 square foot home with a two-car garage, walk to highly-rated schools, kayak on a pristine lake, and still reach downtown Seattle in under an hour? Covington delivers this lifestyle at price points that have long since vanished from the Eastside and North King County.

New Construction

Modern homes with contemporary floor plans, energy efficiency, and smart home features at competitive prices.

Quality Schools

Kent School District provides excellent education with several schools serving Covington neighborhoods directly.

Lake Sawyer

290 acres of pristine water for swimming, fishing, boating, and waterfront living right in your backyard.

Family Community

A welcoming atmosphere with community events, youth sports, and neighbors who know each other by name.

Easy Access

SR-18 and Highway 516 connect you to Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, and SeaTac with multiple route options.

Growing Retail

Covington Town Center and new developments bring shopping, dining, and services to your neighborhood.

Explore Covington's Neighborhoods

From waterfront living to walkable town center living, discover the neighborhood that fits your lifestyle

Covington Town Center area
Walkable Living

Covington Town Center

The heart of Covington's retail and dining scene. Walk to restaurants, shops, and entertainment while enjoying newer apartment and townhome communities. Perfect for those who want suburban convenience with urban amenities.

Walkable Dining Shopping
Jenkins Creek neighborhood homes
Family Favorite

Jenkins Creek

An established family neighborhood centered around Jenkins Creek Elementary School. Tree-lined streets, community parks, and a strong sense of neighborhood pride make this area ideal for families with school-age children.

Schools Parks Family-Friendly
Lake Sawyer waterfront
Waterfront Living

Lake Sawyer

Premium waterfront and water-view properties surrounding the stunning 290-acre Lake Sawyer. Enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and stunning sunset views from one of South King County's most desirable lakefront communities.

Waterfront Recreation Premium
New construction homes
Modern Living

New Development Areas

Covington's newest communities feature contemporary home designs, energy-efficient construction, and modern amenities. Multiple builders offer various floor plans and price points to suit different family needs and budgets.

New Homes Modern Energy Efficient

Schools & Education in Covington

Covington is served by the Kent School District, one of Washington State's largest and most diverse school districts. With a commitment to academic excellence and comprehensive programs, Kent School District has invested significantly in the Covington area to accommodate the community's rapid growth.

Several schools serve Covington families directly, including Covington Elementary, Jenkins Creek Elementary, Mattson Middle School, and Kentwood High School. The district offers diverse programs including STEM academies, language immersion, performing arts, and comprehensive special education services.

Elementary Schools

  • Covington Elementary
  • Jenkins Creek Elementary
  • Lake Sawyer Elementary

Secondary Schools

  • Mattson Middle School
  • Kentwood High School
  • Kent School District Programs
Lake recreation

Lake Sawyer: Your Backyard Paradise

At 290 acres, Lake Sawyer is the crown jewel of Covington - offering year-round recreation just minutes from home.

Swimming

Public beach access for summer fun

Fishing

Bass, trout, and more year-round

Boating

Public boat launch available

Trails

Scenic paths around the lake

Shopping, Dining & Entertainment

Covington Town Center anchors the community's retail scene, offering a mix of national chains and local favorites. The walkable outdoor shopping center features grocery stores, restaurants, fitness centers, and services that serve daily needs without leaving town.

As Covington continues to grow, new retail and restaurant options arrive regularly. From casual family dining to specialty coffee shops, the community increasingly offers the conveniences that residents expect - reducing the need to travel to Kent or Auburn for everyday errands.

Shopping and retail

Commuting & Highway Access

Covington's strategic location provides excellent highway access for commuters. SR-18 runs directly through the area, connecting to I-90 to the north (for Bellevue and Seattle) and Auburn to the south. Highway 516 provides an east-west corridor to Kent, I-5, and beyond.

Typical commute times from Covington: 35-50 minutes to downtown Seattle, 30-40 minutes to Bellevue, 25-35 minutes to SeaTac Airport, and 15-20 minutes to Kent. While Covington doesn't have direct rail service, park-and-ride facilities provide connections to regional transit networks.

35-50
min to Seattle
30-40
min to Bellevue
25-35
min to SeaTac
15-20
min to Kent

New Construction Opportunities

One of Covington's biggest draws is the abundance of new construction homes. Multiple builders are actively developing communities throughout the area, offering everything from starter homes to executive-level residences.

New homes in Covington typically feature open floor plans, modern kitchens with stainless appliances, energy-efficient windows and HVAC systems, and smart home technology. Many communities include amenities like community parks, walking trails, and common areas.

  • Modern floor plans
  • Energy-efficient construction
  • Builder warranties included
  • Customization options available
New construction home interior

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about moving to Covington

Is Covington, WA a good place to raise a family?

Yes, Covington is excellent for families. The city offers new construction homes at affordable prices, access to the highly-rated Kent School District, abundant parks and recreation including Lake Sawyer, and a safe, suburban environment. The community has grown significantly due to its family-friendly atmosphere.

What school district serves Covington, WA?

Covington is served by the Kent School District, one of the largest districts in Washington State. The district operates several schools in the Covington area including Covington Elementary, Jenkins Creek Elementary, Mattson Middle School, and Kentwood High School.

How far is Covington from Seattle?

Covington is approximately 25 miles southeast of downtown Seattle. Via SR-18 and I-405, the commute typically takes 35-50 minutes depending on traffic. The city also provides easy access to Highway 516 for connections to Kent, Renton, and other employment centers.

What are the best neighborhoods in Covington?

Popular Covington neighborhoods include Covington Town Center (walkable retail and dining), Jenkins Creek (established family community with excellent schools), and Lake Sawyer area (waterfront living and recreation). Each offers distinct advantages for different lifestyles and budgets.

Is Covington growing?

Yes, Covington is one of the fastest-growing communities in South King County. The population has increased over 40% since 2010, with continuous new construction development. New retail centers, restaurants, and community amenities are being added regularly.

What is there to do in Covington?

Covington offers Lake Sawyer for fishing, swimming, and boating; numerous parks and trails; the Covington Town Center for shopping and dining; and easy access to regional attractions. The community hosts family events throughout the year and is close to hiking in the Cascade foothills.

Does Covington have good highway access?

Yes, Covington has excellent highway access via SR-18 (connecting to I-90 and Auburn) and Highway 516 (connecting to Kent and I-5). This makes commuting to Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, and SeaTac Airport convenient for residents.

Ready to Make Covington Your Home?

Next Phase Moving is based right here in Covington. Let your neighbors help you move into your new community.