Is It Expensive To Live In Washington?

Washington is praised for its natural beauty, steady job market and diverse communities, but the cost of living is a significant consideration for anyone eyeing a move to the state. Housing prices, taxes and daily living expenses all factor into the overall cost of living, which can vary greatly from area to area. In the paragraphs below, we’ll breakdown each component that goes into living expenses in Washington so that you can have a better idea of how costly it is to live in this state.

Housing Costs In Washington Can Be High Depending On Location And Type Of Property You Are Looking For

Housing is one of the largest costs residents in Washington face. Seattle, the largest city in the state, has some of the most expensive real estate in the region. With a median home price that is way above the national average, home ownership in Seattle isn't easy for much of the population. Renters are not spared from the steep prices either, with the average one-bedroom apartment costing far more than in many other areas of the country.

If you look outside big cities, Washington also offers alternatives at a lower price point in the smaller cities and rural areas. Cities such as Spokane and Yakima offer a more affordable housing market but still maintain a decent quality of life. But even in these locales, demand has pushed home prices higher over the last few years. Renting or buying, housing is among the biggest financial concerns when relocating to Washington.

Everyday Living Expenses In Washington And How They Compare To Other States In Terms Of Food, Transportation, And Utilities

And beyond housing, day-to-day living costs can be high. In Washington, groceries overall are more costly than in the rest of the country, especially urban areas. So are dining out, entertainment and other personal costs in cities such as Seattle and Bellevue.

Transportation costs are another consideration. Gas prices in Washington are almost always above the national average, in part due to state taxes on fuel. In bigger cities, there’s public transportation, but if you’re in a suburb / rural area, you may have to have a car, which also adds to overall costs.

Health care is another crucial consideration. Washington has excellent medical centers, but the costs of insurance and out-of-pocket expenses can be steep. People relocating to the state should familiarize themselves with health insurance plans and costs to prevent an unforeseen financial strain.

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Washington Has No State Income Tax But Other Taxes Such As Sales Tax And Property Tax Can Be Expensive

One of the financial perks of living in Washington is that the state doesn’t have an income tax. This is enticing to workers who otherwise would have faced high state income taxes in California or Oregon, for example.

However, Washington compensates for that with high sales taxes and property taxes. Sales tax: City-specific, sometimes over 10% in some areas. Property taxes are also above the national average, which can drive up the cost of homeownership over time. So when those folks pay no income tax, they make it up in other taxes.

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Utility Bills And Other Monthly Expenses That Affect The Cost Of Living In Washington Throughout The Year

Utilities in Washington vary in price depending on location and season. Electricity prices are relatively low compared with those of other states because of the region’s heavy dependence on hydroelectric power. But some winter heating costs can be concerning for some, especially in colder regions such as Spokane and the Cascade Mountains. If you live in a house that uses a natural gas or electric furnace, you could see your utility bills soar this winter.

Internet and phone prices are in line with national averages, but depending on where you live especially if you live in rural areas you may have limited or more expensive options for high-speed internet service. Moreover, the cost of water and sewage is greater in urban centers, increasing the monthly budget for both home buyers and renters.

Grocery And Food Costs In Washington And How They Impact Your Budget Depending On Where You Live

Prices for groceries in Washington are typically higher than those in many other states. Though fresh produce can be accessed throughout the year, thanks to the state’s powerful agricultural sector, the overall grocery prices remain high in urban areas.

Eating out is expensive too. Seattle has, in particular, a robust food culture with plenty of fine dining, and those establishments' bill can reflect that. If you enjoy dining out often, your grocery budget may be through the roof compared to some other states.

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Job Market And Income Levels That Influence Affordability In Washington Based On Industry And Location

Washington boasts a healthy job market, particularly in fields such as technology, aerospace and health care. Seattle is home to major employers like Amazon, Microsoft and Boeing that offer well-paying jobs to many people who live there. But not everyone is employed in these lucrative fields, and salaries in other areas might not stretch to meet rising living costs.

Job Numbers Are Smaller in Washington's Smaller Cities and Wages May Be Lower. If you’re looking to relocate to Washington, the job market and salary ranges are important factors to consider so you can determine how affordable life will be.

Entertainment And Leisure Expenses In Washington Can Vary Based On Lifestyle And Whether You Prefer Outdoor Or Urban Activities

Washington has affordable to expensive entertainment and recreational activities. Outdoor activities like hiking, camping and visiting state parks can be inexpensive. The state’s natural beauty offers plenty of free or inexpensive recreational options.

But if you’re a fan of city-based entertainment, like concerts or theater productions or professional sports, those activities don’t come cheap. Seattle is home to major league sports teams and cultural venues, but the price of a ticket to a game or performance is often prohibitive. Therefore, budgeting is important to maintain your expenses on entertainment while enjoying what the state has to offer.

Is Living In Washington Expensive? It Depends On Your Lifestyle, Job, And The City Or Town You Choose To Reside In

Cost of living in Washington is high in the big cities but there are some ways that help manage and plan the expenses. Rental, tax and grocery prices and entertainment costs all play a factor in the overall financial picture, and Washington’s affordability of living picture varies by person. If you’re considering making Washington your home, your budget and location choices can have a tremendous impact on your expenses.

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