If you’re considering moving to Washington state, it’s important to understand the cost of living. While Seattle may be renowned for its high home prices, there are plenty of more affordable options in the Evergreen State. From the agricultural oasis of Yakima to the small-town charm of Prosser, Washington offers a range of cities with lower costs of living and access to outdoor activities and cultural amenities.
Washington is a state of dichotomies, with high-tech companies and agriculture coexisting alongside densely packed coastal cities and wide-open landscapes. It is also one of only nine states with no state income tax. Whether you’re looking to start a career, raise a family, or retire, Washington has something to offer everyone.
Key Takeaways:
- Washington state offers a variety of affordable cities with their own unique attractions and advantages.
- Yakima, Kennewick, Spokane, Olympia, and Auburn are some of the most affordable cities in Washington.
- These cities provide affordable housing options, lower costs of living, and access to outdoor activities and cultural amenities.
- When comparing the cost of living in Washington cities, consider factors such as housing affordability and median household income.
- Washington state is a great place to live, whether you’re starting a career, raising a family, or looking to retire.
Yakima
Yakima is the county’s #1 producer of apples, blueberries, and hops, among other crops, and its second largest wine producer. With a thriving population of almost 100,000, Yakima is an oasis in the central semi-arid desert, offering a great combination of city resources and outdoor activities.
| Population | Median Household Income | Cost of Living | Median Rent Price | Home Price-to-Income Ratio | Average Property Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 97,012 | $50,673 | 97.9% of U.S. average | $1,400 | 6.74 | 1.06% |
Housing Affordability: With one of the lowest median rents in the state, Yakima offers the opportunity to live in the city while still enjoying affordable housing. Those looking to purchase a home will find prices hovering in the mid-$300,000 range, and a market that has dropped substantially less over the last year than other major Washington cities.
Kennewick
A little further east, the Tri-Cities area — which includes Kennewick as well as Pasco and Richland — has relatively low housing costs — half of what you’d pay in Seattle. Residents enjoy a beautiful river waterfront and access to cultural attractions like the Gorge Amphitheatre.
| Population | Median Household Income | Cost of Living | Median Rent Price | Home Price-to-Income Ratio | Average Property Tax | Housing Affordability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 84,750 | $64,053 | 99.1% of U.S. average | $1,577 | 6.48 | 1.11% | The lowest home price-to-income ratio on the list puts Kennewick in the lead for housing affordability. Residents can expect to pay less of their overall income toward keeping a roof over their heads. |
Spokane
Lovingly called the Lilac City by its residents, Spokane is just a few miles west of the Idaho border, making it the easternmost city on this list. With a large population and plenty of attractions — including the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture and the historical Campbell House — Spokane is another excellent option if you’re looking for affordable big-city living in the Evergreen State.
Population: 230,160
Median Household Income: $56,977
Cost of Living: 103.1% of U.S. average
Median Rent Price: $1,539
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 6.7
Average Property Tax: 1.20%
Housing Affordability: Boasting the second lowest home price-to-income ratio on the list, Spokane residents can enjoy the metropolitan lifestyle of a city with more than 200,000 people at an affordable price. Home values linger just below $400,000, and the median rent is a reasonable $1,539.
| Population | Median Household Income | Cost of Living | Median Rent Price | Home Price-to-Income Ratio | Average Property Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 230,160 | $56,977 | 103.1% of U.S. average | $1,539 | 6.7 | 1.20% |
Olympia
Situated about halfway between Portland to the south and Seattle to the north, Washington’s state capital, Olympia, offers a vibrant cultural scene and a more affordable lifestyle compared to its coastal counterparts. With a storied history, including being the birthplace of the Riot Grrl movement, Olympia maintains its reputation as a hub of creativity and expression. It is also home to Evergreen State College, contributing to its thriving arts and academia.
Population: 55,669
Median Household Income: $67,975
Cost of Living: 113.8% of U.S. average
Median Rent Price: $1,850
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 7.56
Average Property Tax: 1.14%
| Housing Affordability | |
|---|---|
| Home price-to-income ratio | 7.56 |
| Median rent price | $1,850 |
| Average property tax | 1.14% |
Although the home price-to-income ratio in Olympia is higher than the U.S. average, the median rent price of $1,850 is significantly lower than Seattle’s $2,275. Rent prices have dropped by $445 over the past year, and a cooling housing market provides more options for renters in their search for affordable housing.
Olympia’s cultural richness, coupled with its affordability, makes it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between urban amenities and outdoor beauty.
Auburn
This lesser-known Seattle suburb’s main attractions are parks and coffee shops, but big city events and activities are just a short drive away. The cost of living in Auburn is slightly more affordable than Seattle or Tacoma, making it an attractive option for residents looking for a more budget-friendly lifestyle.
Population: 84,858
Median Household Income: $79,415
Cost of Living: 122.6% of U.S. average
Median Rent Price: $2,050
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 7.27
Average Property Tax: 1.05%
Housing Affordability: While rent prices in Auburn may be higher compared to other cities on this list, they are still more affordable than in Seattle proper, where the median price is $2,275. With an average home value of $577,641, which is significantly lower than Seattle’s $834,501, Auburn offers a more accessible housing market. The higher median household income of almost $80,000, which is about $10,000 higher than the U.S. average, provides residents with greater financial flexibility in meeting their housing needs.
Key Takeaways:
- Auburn is an affordable Seattle suburb with parks and coffee shops.
- The cost of living in Auburn is slightly more affordable than in Seattle or Tacoma.
- Rent prices in Auburn are higher than other cities on this list, but still more affordable than in Seattle.
- Auburn’s average home value is lower than Seattle’s, making housing more accessible.
- The higher median household income in Auburn provides residents with greater financial flexibility.
Best Places to Raise a Family in Washington State
Washington state is widely recognized as one of the best places in the country to raise a family. It offers a multitude of quality schools, a focus on health and safety, thriving socioeconomics, and a wide range of family fun activities. From exploring the natural beauty of its parks and outdoor spaces to experiencing the vibrant cultural scene, Washington state has something for everyone.
When it comes to education, Washington state is known for its excellent schools. Families have access to a variety of high-quality educational institutions, ensuring that their children receive a top-notch education. The state places a strong emphasis on providing a nurturing learning environment and ensuring that students have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
In addition to quality schools, Washington state offers a wealth of family-friendly activities and entertainment options. From visiting world-class museums and art galleries to enjoying outdoor adventures like hiking, skiing, and kayaking, there is no shortage of things to do for families of all ages. The state’s rich natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories and bonding experiences.
“Washington state offers a multitude of quality schools, a focus on health and safety, thriving socioeconomics, and a wide range of family fun activities.”
While Washington state offers many advantages for families, it is essential to note that childcare costs can be relatively high. Families planning to raise children in the state should be financially prepared for these expenses and consider budgeting accordingly.
| Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|
|
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Despite the consideration of childcare costs, Washington state remains an excellent choice for families looking for a supportive and enriching environment to raise their children. Its combination of quality schools, family fun activities, and overall socio-economic opportunities make it one of the best places in the country to build a happy and fulfilling family life.
With its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and commitment to education, Washington state provides the perfect setting for families to thrive and create lifelong memories. Whether you’re looking for a small-town community or an urban environment, Washington state offers a diverse range of affordable cities that cater to the unique needs of every family.
Kennewick
Kennewick is one of the best places to raise a family in Kennewick, and it’s also one of the most affordable cities in Washington state. As part of the Tri-Cities region, Kennewick offers great resources and amenities for families, making it an ideal choice for parents looking for a family-friendly community.
One of the advantages of living in Kennewick is its mild winters and abundance of summer events. Families can enjoy the Live at 5 series, which features live music and food trucks, as well as Art in the Park, where local performers and artists showcase their talents.
“Kennewick offers a great quality of life for families, with its mild weather and a wide range of cultural events and activities. It’s a wonderful place to raise children and create lasting memories.”
Parents will also appreciate that Kennewick has one of the most diverse school districts in the state of Washington. This diversity fosters an inclusive and enriching learning environment for children of all backgrounds.
| Population | 84,750 |
|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $64,053 |
| Cost of Living | 99.1% of U.S. Average |
| Median Rent Price | $1,577 |
| Home Price-to-Income Ratio | 6.48 |
| Average Property Tax | 1.11% |
When it comes to housing affordability, Kennewick is a standout. While rent prices have been increasing, they are still significantly lower than other major Washington metros like Seattle. The cost of housing remains relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for parents who are also paying for childcare.
Overall, Kennewick offers a high quality of life for families, with its affordable living costs, diverse school district, and a wide range of family-friendly events and activities. It’s no wonder why Kennewick ranks among the best places to raise a family in Washington state.
Bellevue
Families may be drawn here in part because Bellevue’s school district has been voted the second best in the entire state. And Bellevue is an excellent alternative for parents hoping to raise their kids as close to Seattle as possible — with a slight price break. Separated from the city by beautiful Lake Washington, Bellevue offers fun family to-dos of both the outdoorsy and indoorsy varieties.
Key Statistics:
- Population: 152,767
- Median Household Income: $140,252
- Cost of Living: 149.9% of U.S. average
- Median Rent Price: $3,150
- Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 9.13
- Average Property Tax: 1.05%
Housing Affordability: Make no mistake: Bellevue is expensive, and even its much-higher-than-average median household income can’t keep up with an average housing cost of more than $1 million. (This is jumbo mortgage loan territory, for sure.) But there’s good news for renters: A cooling market means that more housing is available and rents are about $250 lower, on average, than they were last year.
In Bellevue, families can take advantage of top-notch schools and a range of recreational activities. Whether it’s exploring the picturesque parks and trails or visiting family-friendly attractions, there is no shortage of things to do in this vibrant city. And with its proximity to Seattle, families can easily access the cultural and entertainment offerings of a larger city while enjoying a slightly quieter and more affordable lifestyle.
Wenatchee
Affordable mid-size-town living and a solid school district make Wenatchee one of the best places to raise a family in Washington state. With plenty of wide-open spaces and sweeping mountain views, this charming town offers a host of opportunities for families to thrive.
| Population | Median Household Income | Cost of Living | Median Rent Price | Home Price-to-Income Ratio | Average Property Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 35,433 | $60,285 | 102.3% of U.S. average | $1,907 | 7.78 | 1.00% |
Housing Affordability
Although rents in Wenatchee have increased over the past year, the market remains cool overall, making it an affordable option compared to other major Washington state metropolises. Additionally, Wenatchee has one of the lowest average property tax rates in the state, further improving housing affordability.
In Wenatchee, families can enjoy a comfortable and affordable lifestyle while surrounded by the beauty of nature. With its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a lower cost of living, Wenatchee truly embodies the ideal place to raise a family in Washington state.
Camas
Nestled on the banks of the Columbia River just a short drive from Portland, OR, Camas is a great place to raise a family if you’re looking for a combination of city attractions and outdoor learning opportunities — all without paying Oregon’s high state income tax rate.
With a population of 27,371 and a median household income of $121,094, Camas offers a comfortable and prosperous living environment. However, it’s important to note that the cost of living in Camas is 124.3% of the U.S. average, indicating that it may be slightly more expensive compared to other cities in Washington state.
When it comes to housing affordability, Camas has a home price-to-income ratio of 5.93, which is one of the lowest we’ve seen among the best places to raise a family in Washington state. Although the median rent in Camas is $2,609 and the average home value exceeds $700,000, the favorable home price-to-income ratio allows families to stretch their budget further when it comes to housing expenses.
Take a look at the key statistics for Camas:
| Population | Median Household Income | Cost of Living | Median Rent Price | Home Price-to-Income Ratio | Average Property Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27,371 | $121,094 | 124.3% of U.S. average | $2,609 | 5.93 | 1.09% |
While housing in Camas may be on the pricier side, the city offers a range of amenities and opportunities that make it an attractive choice for families. Whether it’s exploring the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, enjoying outdoor activities in nearby parks, or taking advantage of the city’s strong school system, Camas provides a nurturing environment for families to thrive.
So, if you’re looking for one of the best places to raise a family in Washington state and are willing to invest in a higher cost of living, Camas could be the perfect fit for you and your loved ones.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Washington state offers a variety of affordable cities to live in, each with its own unique attractions and advantages. From the agricultural oasis of Yakima to the small-town charm of Prosser, these cities provide affordable housing options, lower costs of living, and access to outdoor activities and cultural amenities.
Whether you’re looking to start a career, raise a family, or retire, Washington state has something to offer everyone. Compare the cost of living in Washington cities to make an informed decision about the best place to live for your lifestyle and budget.
FAQ
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Source Links
- https://propertyclub.nyc/article/cheapest-places-to-live-in-washington-state
- https://everydayspokane.com/cheapest-places-to-live-in-washington-state/
- https://www.sofi.com/best-affordable-places-to-live-in-washington/
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