Cost of Living in Washington: Average Rent, Groceries, Utilities, and More

Washington State offers a breathtaking blend of towering mountains, lush forests, and vibrant urban centers. From the buzzing streets of Seattle to the charming waterfront of Bellingham, there’s no shortage of appeal in this Pacific Northwest gem. However, as the demand for housing and amenities increases, so does the cost of living in Washington. Residents often find themselves paying above average for essential expenses, including housing, healthcare, and transportation. Whether you’re a tech professional settling in a high-rise Seattle apartment or a nature lover seeking tranquility in a cozy home in Bellingham, we’ll help you navigate the state’s financial landscape. Let’s dive into the key expenses you can expect when considering a move to Washington.

Housing costs: Median home prices and average rent in Washington

Housing costs significantly impact the overall cost of living in Washington, with prices varying widely across the state. The average rent in Washington is about $1,730, slightly above the national average of $1,645. While cities like Seattle and its suburbs—such as Bellevue and Redmond—tend to be on the pricier side, there are pockets of affordability throughout Washington, even though rent and home prices have been on the rise. If you’re willing to venture beyond the urban centers, you can discover charming apartments and homes in quieter suburbs or smaller towns that fit more comfortably within your budget.

WA housing costs: Average rents and median home sale prices

Housing costs in popular cities in Washington

Bellingham

Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Bellingham offers a balance of natural beauty and community charm, making it a desirable yet more affordable alternative to the state’s pricier urban areas. With an average rent for a one-bedroom apartment at $1,530 and two-bedroom units around $1,675, Bellingham rents are below the average rent in Washington ($1,730). While the price of homes in Bellingham has increased 8.4% year-over-year, with a median sale price of $641,250, they still offer a middle ground between Seattle’s high costs and the more affordable options found further east.

Seattle 

As Washington’s bustling urban center, Seattle commands some of the highest housing costs in the state. A one-bedroom apartment averages $2,275, while a two-bedroom can reach $3,050—well above the average rent in Washington and significantly more than the national average of $1,645. Seattle’s median home sale price is $872,000, nearly double the national median of $439,000. Known for its thriving tech scene, cultural landmarks, and waterfront attractions, Seattle offers a high-energy urban lifestyle, but its elevated costs make it one of the most expensive cities in the state. For those prioritizing location and access to the state’s top economic hubs, Seattle provides unmatched opportunity, but with a considerable cost of living.

Read more: 9 Pros and Cons of Living in Seattle, WA

Spokane

Located in Eastern Washington, Spokane provides some of the most affordable cost of living in Washington while still offering a lively, urban lifestyle. The average rent in Washington stands at $1,730, but in Spokane, a one-bedroom averages $1,290, and a two-bedroom goes for around $1,600—both comfortably below state and national averages. Spokane’s median home price of $665,000 has climbed due to increased demand but remains more accessible than prices in Seattle or Bellingham. Known for its extensive park system, riverfront access, and vibrant arts scene, Spokane gives residents a well-rounded lifestyle at a fraction of the cost typically associated with urban Washington.

Read more: Should I Move to Spokane, WA? 9 Pros and Cons

Tacoma 

Tacoma strikes a balance between affordability and accessibility to the Seattle metro area, with an average one-bedroom rent of $1,840—higher than the average rent in Washington but lower than Seattle’s hefty prices. Two-bedroom units in Tacoma generally cost less than the state’s average, and the city’s median home price of $483,000 offers a more budget-friendly alternative to Seattle’s housing market. Known for its artistic community, revitalized waterfront, and views of Mount Rainier, Tacoma is a desirable option for those who want the benefits of city life without Seattle’s sky-high prices. Its proximity to major employers and scenic surroundings makes it a popular choice for commuters and families alike.

Vancouver

Just across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon, Vancouver offers a more affordable cost of living in Washington while providing convenient access to Portland’s amenities and job market. With average one-bedroom rents around $1,575 and two-bedroom options at $1,860, Vancouver’s housing costs are close to the average rent in Washington but present a significantly more budget-friendly alternative to Seattle’s prices. The median home price in Vancouver is $480,000, a substantial savings compared to Seattle, making homeownership for Washingtonians more accessible. Vancouver combines a quiet suburban atmosphere with city conveniences, offering residents an affordable base for enjoying the best of the Pacific Northwest.

Below-average utility costs in Washington

Utility costs in Washington state can vary, but overall, they tend to fall below national averages, offering some predictability and relief within the broader cost of living in Washington. Residents can expect to pay around $150 to $200 per month for essential utilities like electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, depending on the season and local rates. Washington’s mild climate, especially in the western region, helps keep heating and cooling costs relatively manageable compared to hotter or colder states. Internet services typically add about $60 to $80 per month, depending on speed and provider, and cities like Seattle offer a range of options for high-speed fiber connections. For those who choose smaller or more rural towns, utility costs may even drop a bit lower, making Washington’s diverse landscape adaptable to various budget preferences.

Utility bill comparisons: Washington cities vs. nationwide average

Grocery expenses contribute to the higher cost of living in Washingon

Grocery costs in Washington reflect the state’s overall cost of living, landing on the higher end of the spectrum compared to the national average. With monthly grocery expenses approximately 13% higher than the U.S. average, residents can expect to spend a bit more to fill their carts. Factors such as higher transportation costs, local taxes, and the premium placed on fresh, quality ingredients can drive prices up. While residents can expect to pay a premium for their grocery bills compared to other states, the wide availability of farmers markets, specialty stores, and organic options offers a high standard of quality. For many, the slightly elevated grocery costs are part of the cost of living in Washington but come with the benefit of fresh, local food choices that contribute to the quality of life here.

Transportation tends to cost more in Washington

Transportation costs in Washington are well above the national average, largely driven by higher gas prices, which currently hover around $4.03 per gallon compared to the national average of $3.39. For commuters in areas like Seattle, where traffic congestion is common, these higher fuel costs add up quickly. Car owners also face additional expenses like tolls on major highways, routine maintenance—often increased by Washington’s varied weather—and relatively high vehicle registration fees, which are based on vehicle weight and age. However, Washington’s robust public transportation network, including buses, light rail, and ferries, provides cost-effective alternatives, especially in the Puget Sound region, where many cities also support biking and walking infrastructure to help offset costs. While fuel and vehicle-related expenses add to the overall cost of living in Washington, residents have various transit options to manage their transportation budgets effectively.

Healthcare costs are on the higher end in Washington

Healthcare costs in Washington consistently run higher than the national average, even in more affordable regions across the state. However, actual expenses can vary significantly based on personal needs, insurance coverage, choice of provider, and location. While a typical dentist visit costs around $115.50 nationally, it runs about $121.52 in Spokane, $130.43 in Bellingham, and $152.74 in Seattle. For doctor visits, the national average is $140.46, but expect to pay about $167.60 in Spokane, $171.06 in Bellingham, and $225.02 in Seattle. Even in more affordable parts of Washington, healthcare costs are often above average, making it a notable part of the cost of living in Washington—especially for those with specific healthcare needs and varying insurance coverage.

Taxes in Washington: No state income tax

When assessing the cost of living in Washington, it’s essential to consider the state’s tax landscape. Washington is one of the few states that does not impose a personal income tax, which can be a financial relief for many residents. However, this absence is balanced by higher sales taxes. Washington has a sales tax rate of 6.50%, but when combined with local taxes, the total sales tax rates hit an average of 9.38%, much higher than the national average total rate that falls between 5-7%. This higher sales tax can add a noticeable amount to everyday purchases, impacting your budget significantly. 

Additionally, property taxes also play a role in the cost of living here for those who own their homes. The effective property tax rate on owner-occupied housing value is 0.76%. Homeowners should be prepared for these costs, as property taxes can quickly accumulate, especially in areas with rising home values like Seattle and its surrounding areas. Understanding how these tax factors interact with the overall cost of living is essential for anyone looking to move to or live in Washington, as they can significantly influence your budget and financial planning.

How much do I need to earn to live in Washington? 

To live comfortably in Washington, it’s helpful to apply the “30% rule,” which suggests that housing costs should ideally take up no more than 30% of your monthly income. With the average rent in Washington at about $1,730, you’d need to earn roughly $5,767 per month, or around $69,200 annually, to stay within this recommended limit. However, costs vary significantly across the state. For instance, renting a one-bedroom apartment in Seattle averages about $2,275, meaning you’d need a monthly income of about $7,583, or an annual salary of roughly $91,000, to comfortably afford rent in the city. In contrast, if you were to rent a one-bedroom apartment in Yakima or Spokane, where rents are lower than the state average, you could meet the 30% guideline with a more modest income. This variation shows that while Washington’s cost of living is high overall, some areas offer more affordable options that can make a comfortable lifestyle achievable on a lower income.

Methodology

Average 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom rent sourced from Rent. Median home sale price, state average monthly rent, national rent prices, and cost of living data sourced from Redfin.