Renton, Washington is a friendly, diverse, and vibrant city in the Pacific Northwest. Located about a twenty-minute drive from Seattle, it’s technically part of the greater Seattle metro area, although it is a city that offers much to see and do in its own right as well. It’s also a city full of welcoming neighborhoods, including a thriving LGBTQ community. If you’re thinking of finding your next home in Renton, chances are, you’ll find plenty about it to love.
A Look at Renton’s History
Like much of what is now Washington, Renton was initially inhabited for many generations by Native American tribes who used the area as an important source of salmon and other natural resources. Its more modern-day history began in the 1860s, as more settlers headed west, and as the railroad and other commerce arrived in the area. It was initially an important center for fishing, coal mining, and timber exports. As the area grew, Renton grew as well, eventually becoming home to many businesses and welcoming many new residents. From its founding until today, Renton has grown in diversity, and today is a progressive, vibrant, and thriving city with plenty of opportunities and much to see and do for all who call it home.
A Few Fun Facts About Renton
Read more fun facts about Renton here.
Renton’s LGBTQ Community
Renton is a city with a thriving and diverse LGBTQ community that is supported by various resources, including:
PFLAG Seattle is Renton’s chapter of PFLAG National, which is national support, education, and advocacy organization for LGBTQ people, as well as their families, friends, and allies. It is the largest grassroots-based family organization of its kind in the country. The stated mission of PFLAG is to help change attitudes and create an environment of understanding so that everyone can live in a world that is safe and inclusive, a mission that it tries to fulfill through support, education, and advocacy.
Renton Pride Is a community-based LGBTQ organization dedicated to supporting, celebrating, and building connections in Renton’s LGBTQ community. Throughout the year the group provides resources, plans events including the city’s annual Pride in the Park event, and works to support the community in a wide variety of ways.
What's the Weather Like in Renton?
Those who live in Renton can certainly expect some of the rainy weather that the Pacific Northwest is well known for. On average, the area receives 44 inches of rain each year and about 6 inches of snow. Throughout the year, temperatures can range from a low of around 36°F in January to a high of around 76°F in July. This means that generally, any time of year is a good time to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in Renton.
Can’t-Miss Events in Renton
Just a short drive from Renton, Seattle Pride is a celebration that is well worth the trip. The weeklong festivities include a parade, parties, family-friendly activities, and many other events. The celebration draws thousands of attendees each year and is one of the biggest in the country. It’s definitely one party that you'll want to put on your calendar!
The Best Neighborhoods in Renton
If you're considering moving to Renton, you will find that the entire city is very welcoming. Unlike some cities that tend to have one specific “gayborhood,” the LGBTQ community in Renton is sprinkled throughout the city, so there are many neighborhoods that would make wonderful places to call home. This is why it’s always advised to contact a Renton gay realtor who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find the perfect home in the ideal neighborhood. The current median list price of homes for sale in Renton is around $670,000.
Arts and Entertainment
For more than three decades the Renton Civic Theatre has been offering excellent performances in a variety of genres to the community. There’s something here for everyone and you don’t want to miss the chance to enjoy a show (or several!) for yourself!
The Renton History Museum is located in a beautiful Art Deco-style fire station in the heart of renting. With over 90,000 artifacts and a wide variety of exhibits, the museum tells the story of Renton and the greater state of Washington. It's a fascinating place to spend the day learning and having fun!
Parks and Recreation
Lake Washington is the largest freshwater lake in the Seattle area and the second-largest freshwater lake in the state of Washington. Residents of Renton can access the lake easily for fishing, boating, swimming or simply relaxing by the shore. It's the perfect place to spend a beautiful day in Renton!
Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park
The Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park is a beautiful 57-acre park that offers so much to see and do. Whether you enjoy biking, hiking, picnicking, running, or simply relaxing on a beautiful day, you can do it here.
Renton Nightlife
The Madison Pub is one of the most popular gay bars in the greater Seattle area. This friendly, relaxed spot offers strong drinks, plenty of TVs, pool, darts, a jukebox, and friendly crowds. It’s a great spot to put on your list for a night out in the Renton area.
Although not specifically an LGBTQ bar, The Melrose Grille is friendly and welcoming to all and is known as one of the best spots in Renton for dinner, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. You’ll definitely want to put it on your list!
Contact a Renton Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Renton, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Renton, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Renton gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
