Washington, known as the "Evergreen State", is a no-income-tax Pacific Northwest state with expensive housing near Seattle. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Evergreen State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Washington for a single person earning the median income of $82,100/year:
Each category shows how Washington compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Washington.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Washington.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Washington:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Washington, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Washington is $595,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,600/month. With a housing cost index of 137, Washington housing is 37% more expensive than the national average.
Housing affordability is a real challenge in Washington. Many residents spend well over 30% of their income on housing. Consider looking at suburbs or smaller cities within the state for significantly lower costs.
Washington is one of only 9 states with no state income tax. This is a major financial benefit — a household earning $82,100 saves approximately $4,926/year compared to a state with a 6% income tax rate. This extra take-home pay effectively reduces your cost of living and increases your purchasing power.
The average single person in Washington spends approximately $450/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,125-$1,350/month. The food cost index of 105 means groceries in Washington are 5% above the national average.
Gas prices in Washington average $3.85/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $2,310/year in fuel costs.
Washington healthcare costs are 6% above the national average (index: 106). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Washington is approximately $6,360 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Washington averages $1,350/month ($16,200/year). This is a significant expense that rivals rent in many areas. Many families in Washington find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Washington is a higher-cost state, but the higher expenses often come with higher incomes, better infrastructure, and more job opportunities. The median household income of $82,100 helps offset the 15% premium on living costs. No state income tax is a significant advantage at higher income levels.
See all Washington financial calculators:
Washington (WA) has a cost of living index of 115, meaning it is 15% more expensive than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 137. The median rent is $1,600/month and the median home price is $595,000. Washington ranks #42 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Washington is approximately $106,730/year ($8,894/month). For a family of four, aim for $180,620/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($450/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Washington is $82,100.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Washington is approximately $1,600/month. A two-bedroom averages $2,160/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma are the most popular metro areas. Housing costs in Washington are above average — budget carefully.
Washington is a more expensive state (COL index 115), but offers no state income tax, strong job markets and high median incomes ($82,100). Popular areas include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma.
The most affordable areas in Washington are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Washington, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Seattle metro) and more affordable areas. Vancouver and Bellevue tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Washington for a single person is approximately $450 ($1,125 for a family of four). Washington food costs are 5% above the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Washington is approximately $110. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $242/month. Washington utilities are 7% below the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Washington has NO state income tax, saving the average household $4,105-$6,568/year compared to states with typical income tax rates. This is one of only 9 states with no income tax. However, Washington may collect more revenue through sales tax or property tax.