Are you thinking about moving to Washington? The state offers a lot—from Seattle’s tech industry to Spokane’s affordability and Tacoma’s cultural scene. However, the average cost of living in Washington shows that this lifestyle comes at a price.
In 2025, Washington’s cost-of-living index is 114.2. This ranks it among the country’s most expensive states. California is higher, but Washington is more costly than Oregon, Idaho, and Colorado. So, what can you expect in Washington’s expenses? Let’s look at housing, utilities, groceries, and more.
TL;DR: Average Cost of Living in Washington 2025
- Cost-of-living index: 114.2
- Required annual salary (excluding rent): $65,100
- Median household income: $92,000
- Average rent: $2,195/month
- Median home price: $646,100
- Average monthly utilities: $613
- Grocery cost index: 109–115 (Seattle at 115.5)
- Average grocery spend: $379/month
- Fuel price: $3.78/gallon
- Healthcare costs: 13% above national average ($520/month)
- Daycare cost: $1,415/month; Preschool: $1,225/month
Understanding Washington’s Average Cost of Living
To live comfortably in Washington, you need about $65,100 a year—excluding rent. This salary supports a middle-class lifestyle. Notably, it is about 34% above the national average.
Here are some key monthly expenses:
- Rent is around $2,195 on average.
- Groceries cost about $379 per month. Seattle is higher with an index of 115.5.
- Utilities average $613 per month, covering electricity, water, sewer, and internet.
- Healthcare costs run about $520 monthly, which is 13% above the national average.
- Transportation costs are 24% higher than average, with fuel prices at $3.78 per gallon.
Therefore, Washington’s cost of living varies by region. Seattle tends to be more expensive than Spokane or eastern areas.
Housing and Rental Market in Washington
Washington’s housing market has affordability challenges. Both rents and home prices are higher than in many nearby states. However, it remains cheaper than California.
The average rent comes to $2,195 per month. Meanwhile, the median home price is $646,100.
Here is how Washington’s median home price compares to nearby states:
- Oregon’s median home price is $519,000, about 20% less.
- Idaho’s average stands at $480,500, roughly 26% lower.
- California’s housing cost is $790,475, approximately 22% higher.
- Colorado’s median home price is $553,900, about 14% less.
Thus, Oregon and Idaho offer more affordable housing. California is the most expensive in the group. Colorado falls between Washington and Oregon.
Within Washington, Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellevue drive the highest prices. Seattle’s technology sector pushes costs upward. Meanwhile, Spokane and eastern Washington provide cheaper housing options.
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Utilities and Other Living Expenses in Washington
Utility costs in Washington are moderately high, but not the most expensive in the region.
- Average monthly utilities cost $613.
- Electricity averages $104 per month (12.98¢ per kWh).
- Water costs $75 monthly; sewer $65.
- Internet and cable run about $125 per month.
Compared to neighbors:
- Oregon averages $574 per month, but has electricity costs about 20% higher.
- Idaho has the region’s lowest utilities at $495 per month.
- California’s utilities peak at $680 per month.
- Colorado averages $589 monthly.
Groceries cost about 8% more than the national average. Seattle scores 115.5 on the grocery cost index.
Transportation costs run 24% above the national average, with fuel at $3.78 per gallon. Healthcare is also 13% higher than average.
Income and Job Market Overview in Washington
Washington demands a higher salary to afford a middle-class lifestyle. This matches its higher cost of living.
- Required salary is $65,100 yearly, excluding rent.
- Median household income is $92,000.
For comparison:
- Oregon requires $58,000, median income $76,000.
- Idaho requires $54,000, median $71,000.
- California requires $75,000, median $87,000.
- Colorado requires $62,000, median $80,000.
The wage premium fits with Washington’s strong tech and service industries.
Is Washington’s Cost of Living Worth It?
Washington’s living costs are higher. However, the state offers vibrant job markets, especially in Seattle and Redmond. Urban conveniences, natural beauty, and a high quality of life often balance the expenses.
Still, affordability can be tough for families and those with lower incomes.
Relocation Tips
Newcomers should consider Seattle, Bellevue, and Tacoma for jobs and amenities. Eastern Washington, such as Spokane, offers more affordable housing.
Thus, it’s key to research local housing and childcare markets carefully because they are major cost drivers.
The Average Cost of Living in Washington in Context
Washington ranks as one of the most expensive states in 2025. It is second only to California among its peers. Housing and healthcare costs are high. However, utilities and groceries help moderate the total expenses.
The state’s strong economy and higher wages provide many benefits. Yet, these same factors create affordability challenges for some.
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FAQs About Washington’s Average Cost of Living
Is Washington more expensive than Oregon and Idaho?
Yes, Washington is less affordable than Oregon and Idaho but more affordable than California.
What is the average rent in Washington?
The average rent across Washington is $2,195 per month.
How much is the median home price in Washington?
The median home price in Washington is $646,100.
