The Port of Seattle’s Equity Index is a tool that displays a visual representation and ranking of environmental pollutants and social inequities for each census block group in King County. Use the Frequently Asked Questions below to learn more about the Equity Index and how we’re using it to direct resources to those with the greatest need.
The Port of Seattle's Equity Index is an interactive map that displays a visual representation of social and environmental disparities in King County. It uses 20 indicators in four categories to determine pollution burden and social inequities in communities across the region. The Index shows how each census block group compares across four domains and all indicators combined, helping the Port and community partners integrate equity data into decision-making for programs, policies, and investments.
The Port recognizes that pollution, access to economic opportunity, and a healthy standard of living vary across the region. The Port created the Index to visualize differences in pollution burden, access to opportunity, and quality of life across the region. It helps guide equitable allocation of resources such as the South King and Port Communities Fund (SKPCF), inform policy decisions, and support community advocacy and planning efforts.
Indicators are grouped into five categories (very low, low, moderate, high, very high) based on quintiles within King County. Lighter colors = lower access to opportunity; darker colors = higher access. For example, areas with high unemployment and limited park/transit access are ranked “very low.”
All rankings are relative to King County. A “high” score means that block group ranks higher compared to other King County block groups. These are not absolute measures but comparative ones within the county context.
The four categories are Economy, Livability, Accessibility, and Environment.
These four domains align with the Port’s Century Agenda Goals: Economy (#3), Livability (#6), Accessibility (#5), and Environment (#4). Each reflects key Port commitments to regional growth, equity, inclusion, and sustainability.
The Equity Index consists of 20 indicators within the four categories to examine variations in pollution, access to economic opportunity, and a healthy standard of living across the region. See below to learn more:
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| Livability |
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| Accessibility |
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| Environment |
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For more information about each indicator, check out the Equity Index Data Definitions, which can be found at the end of the Equity Index Users Guide.
Indicators were selected through collaboration with Port staff, community partners, and technical experts, drawing on state/regional equity tools and Port-specific needs. They are reviewed regularly to ensure relevance.
Indicators are ranked into quintiles (very low to very high). Scores are averaged within each domain to create domain-level results. The Index methodology builds from the WA Environmental Health Disparities Map and the Kirwan Institute framework. The dashboard also shows histograms for distribution context and provides metadata (definition, data year, source).
Yes. In addition to the 20 indicators that make up the Equity Index, the map includes several supplementary data layers—such as demographics, flood risk, and tree canopy—that provide additional context about communities in King County. These layers are available as filters and reference tools, but they do not contribute to the overall Index score.
For a full list of indicators and additional data layers, see the Equity Index Users Guide.
Yes. The Index is reviewed periodically, and new indicators will be added as reliable data becomes available, ensuring the tool stays relevant for understanding disparities in King County.
The Equity Index Users Guide explains how to search by address, city, ZIP code, or draw custom areas; toggle indicator layers; download data; and share results. It also provides instructions for interpreting the Community Indicators Dashboard and accessing metadata.
Community members, nonprofits, and policymakers can use the Index to understand disparities in their area, advocate for resources, support grant applications, and inform local plans. It is a free public resource designed to foster data-informed conversations and action.
