Is Washington Cheaper To Live Than California?

/ Maria's Green Cleaning/

When deciding where to live, cost of living plays a significant role. Washington and California are both on the West Coast, with picturesque views, job opportunities and diverse communities. A common question, though, is which state is cheaper? How does Washington stack up relative to California when it comes to housing, taxes, utilities, transportation and everyday expenses?

Housing Costs In Washington Are Generally Lower Compared To The More Expensive Real Estate Market In California

Housing is one of the largest expenses anyone incurs, and this is an area where Washington has a big competitive advantage. And, median home price in California is pretty high compared to Washington. San Francisco and Los Angeles have some of the priciest real estate markets in the country, and many homeowners have found it hard to afford homeownership. Rent in California’s biggest cities is also high, often higher than what is typical in Washington.

While the largest city in Washington, Seattle, does see high housing costs, the state has a much greater number of affordable housing options found in its suburban and rural areas. Washington is home to many smaller cities that are more affordable in terms of local home prices but still provide access to urban amenities. The only difference in housing costs makes it a more affordable place to live for many.

Also Check Out Our: What Challenges Did Jeff Bezos Face?

State Taxes In Washington And California Have A Major Impact On The Overall Cost Of Living For Residents

Taxes are another key contributor to cost of living. California has a highly progressive income tax system with some of the highest tax rates in the country. Under this system, people who earn more will pay substantially more in state income taxes. Unlike in Washington, which has no state income tax, a good portion of Massachusetts workers pay taxes on their income.

But Washington has higher sales taxes, which impacts the price of products and services. Though this raises costs on a daily basis, the lack of an income tax more than makes up for it for many of the people who live there. Property taxes are also similar in both states, although the lower housing prices in Washington helps keep overall costs down.

 

Utility And Transportation Costs In Washington And California Depend On Location And Energy Sources Used

Sleek modern train moving through the lush green forests of Washington

Utility costs overall are lower in Washington than California. Washington residents can pay less for their energy because the state has plenty of hydroelectric power. But California’s energy policies and mix of energy sources push the price of electricity up.

Transportation costs are another section of the general cost of living. Because of additional state taxes and our climate rules, multistate average gas prices tend to be greater in California than in Washington. Public transportation can be expensive in cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. In Washington cities like Seattle, light rail and bus systems are sometimes cheaper. For people who rely on cars, driving to work or school may be cheaper in Washington than in other states.

Also Check Out Our: Is Jeff Bezos A Good Boss?

Everyday Expenses Such As Groceries And Healthcare Can Add Up Differently Depending On Whether You Live In Washington Or California

Grocery prices, dining, and other daily expenses can vary with the city, but California tends to have higher prices in particular, the major metropolitan areas. Outside Seattle, Washington has a lower cost of food and entertainment.

Cost of healthcare is another consideration. Both states have several quality medical facilities, however, healthcare costs tend to be more expensive in California. Insurance premiums, medical visits and procedures usually carry higher costs in major California cities than do comparable services and procedures in Washington.

Trusted cleaner using environmentally friendly disinfectants to sanitize kitchens, bathrooms

Also Check Out Our:  What Is Jeff Bezos' Leadership Style?

Washington Provides A More Affordable Overall Lifestyle Compared To The Higher Cost Of Living In California

Overall cost of living in Washington is often cheaper than California. Housing costs are lower, there is no state income tax and utilities are more affordable, all contributing to a cheaper place to live. Although Washington has higher sales taxes and some specific services, a lot of people find that their dollar has has further reach.

Those considering a move should weigh their own financial priorities. If affordable housing and lower taxes are priorities, Washington might be the better choice. For those who god want those job opportunities or lifestyle things in California, however, it may still be worth the extra expense.

At Maria's Green Cleaning, we offer the best eco-friendly cleaning services for your home. Whether you’re in Washington or California, keeping a clean house is always key.