11 Cheapest Places to Live in Washington State: Your Guide
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Looking to settle down in the beautiful state of Washington without breaking the bank? As Millennials, we consider ourselves experts in finding cheaper yet still vibrant places to live. After all, we found Spokane!
Admittedly, prices have been going up everywhere, throughout Washington – including formerly “cheap” Spokane. That said, prices are relative – plenty of people who’ve moved to Spokane, for example, from more expensive cities find Spokane to be a bargain, whereas others find it too expensive.
For reference, according to RentCafe1, the cost of living in Washington state is 15% more expensive than the national average. If you’re looking for the cheapest place to live anywhere, that’s simply not going to be Washington. But if you’re looking for the cheapest places to live in Washington state, this is the article for you!
So take a look at our list and see which city stands out to you the most on our list of the cheapest places to live in Washington state. There’s something for everyone, from picturesque small towns to suburbs with convenient access to urban amenities offering both affordability and a high quality of life. If you’re ready to unlock the secrets of wallet-friendly living in Washington, keep reading!
Note: We highly recommend you visit any of these cities before moving there, just to check them out and see if you like them. The biggest and easiest airports to get in and out of are Seattle and Spokane. Use our travel booking link below to get started!
Spokane
We may be biased, but Spokane, Washington is not only a beautiful place to live, but a cheap place to live as well. Spokane, Washington, is widely recognized as one of the cheapest places to live in the state. Spokane is considered 32% lower in cost of living than Seattle and offers affordability without sacrificing quality of life.2
While home prices have been increasing in Spokane, homes in Spokane are on average half the price of more of homes in Seattle. Coupled with the city’s median household income of $52,000, residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. If you’re interested in learning more about Spokane, check out our article on the best neighborhoods in Spokane.
Beyond affordability, Spokane also offers a range of attractions and amenities, offering plenty of things to do in Spokane. The iconic Spokane Falls is a breathtaking sight, drawing visitors and residents alike to its cascading beauty. Riverfront Park, located in the heart of downtown, offers a plethora of recreational activities, from picnicking and walking trails to historic carousel rides and an ice-skating rink during winter months.
If you’re considering a move to Spokane, check out our list of pros and cons of living in Spokane so you know what to be aware of and why we think it’s such a great place to live!
Food enthusiasts will appreciate Spokane’s vibrant dining scene and plethora of happy hours, or choosing from this list of the best restaurants in Spokane. Whether it’s exploring local farmers markets, enjoying farm-to-table fare, or indulging in the best burgers around Spokane, residents of Spokane can find a wide range of options to suit their taste buds and budget.
Spokane stands out as one of the cheapest places to live in Washington, boasting a lower cost of living than other big cities, particularly Seattle, enticing home prices, and a favorable median household income. With its natural beauty, recreational offerings like Spokane Falls and Riverfront Park, and a thriving dining scene, Spokane offers an affordable and fulfilling lifestyle for its residents.
Quincy
Quincy, Washington, is a hidden potato (we say that as a compliment, especially if you know how much we love potatoes!) for those seeking affordable living in the state. Renowned as one of the cheapest places to live in Washington, this quaint town offers a range of benefits for residents.
One of the most appealing aspects of Quincy is its low home prices. With a median home cost of just $370,000, aspiring homeowners can find affordable housing options without breaking the bank – and yes, Quincy, WA’s home prices are slightly cheaper than Spokane’s. Quincy is a small town, with roughly 8,000 people, so finding a home can be competitive.
Situated near the stunning Columbia River, Quincy boasts an abundance of natural attractions that provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The area’s natural beauty and outdoor recreational options make it an excellent choice for individuals who crave an active lifestyle. In addition, Quincy is becoming known as quite a wine town, with plenty of tasting rooms and cellars for wine aficionados looking for a cheaper place in Washington state to live.
In addition to its affordability and natural wonders, Quincy retains a small-town atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of community. Residents can enjoy a peaceful and welcoming environment while still having access to essential amenities. If you do want some big city life, Spokane is only 2 hours from Quincy, and Seattle is only 2 hours and 45 minutes away.
Overall, Quincy stands out as a remarkable and affordable place to call home in Washington State. With its low home prices, quiet way of life, and proximity to the beautiful Columbia River, it offers the perfect blend of affordability and natural beauty for those seeking an affordable and enjoyable living experience.
Yakima
Located in the heart of Washington’s wine country, Yakima is not only one of the cheapest places to live but also a destination that offers a rich blend of affordability and cultural diversity. Yakima’s cost of living compared to Seattle is 38% lower. As with many places in Washington state, Yakima’s home prices are increasing but are still far below pricier cities like Seattle – the average sold home price in Yakima is $385,000.3
Yakima boasts an impressive 300 days of sunshine, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. From skiing, hiking, and biking to exploring the nearby parks, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy in the great outdoors. And just because Yakima gets so much sunshine doesn’t mean you can’t ski – during the winter, head to White Pass Ski Area.
In addition to its natural beauty, Yakima has a range of attractions that make it a truly unique place to live. The Yakima Area Arboretum is a must-visit for nature lovers, featuring beautiful gardens and walking trails. The city is also known for its wineries and apple orchards, offering residents the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local flavors and culture.
Yakima’s affordability, combined with its outdoor activities and cultural diversity, make it an excellent choice for individuals and families seeking a high quality of life without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re seeking an active lifestyle or simply want to enjoy the beauty of Washington’s wine country, Yakima has something to offer for everyone.
Prosser
Prosser, Washington is an exceptional destination for those seeking the cheapest places to live in the state. With a population of just over 6,000 people, this small town offers a delightful atmosphere that attracts residents looking for affordability and a tight-knit community.
One of the key advantages of living in Prosser is the affordable housing market. The median home value in Prosser is around $368,000, making it an attractive option for homebuyers on a budget. Redfin notes Prosser home prices have actually declined nearly 10% over the last year, meaning you may find a better price on homes in the coming years. 4
Prosser is also known for its thriving agricultural economy. The town features an abundance of fruit orchards and vineyards, making it a hub for wine production. In fact, Prosser is noted for having several wineries all within walking distance to each other, so if you want to take a trip to visit Prosser before making the decision to move there, you might add a winery hop to your list, too!
Beyond its agricultural offerings, Prosser embodies the small-town atmosphere, complete with parks and public schools that cater to families and individuals seeking a tight-knit community. Its agricultural background offers residents not only access to fresh produce but also a unique charm that comes with living in a rural, agricultural community.
Prosser, Washington provides an affordable and welcoming atmosphere for those seeking to settle down in a close-knit community. With its economic advantages, agricultural background, and small-town charm, Prosser is undeniably one of the cheapest and most appealing places to live in Washington.
Cheney
Cheney, Washington, is one of the most affordable places to live in the state. With its low home prices and rental rates, it provides an excellent option for those seeking affordable housing. The median home price in Cheney is $423,000, which while one of the more expensive housing markets in the state, is no where near Seattle.
Aside from its affordability, Cheney offers a charming small-town feel. With a population of around 13,000, it provides a tight-knit community atmosphere, and particularly of college-town vibes. Families and individuals seeking a tranquil and family-friendly environment will find Cheney appealing. Notably, Cheney is conveniently located near Spokane and Spokane Valley, both offering additional amenities such as shopping centers, entertainment options, and employment opportunities while still being able to enjoy a quieter, small-town lifestyle.
For families with children, Cheney is an excellent place to settle down. The community takes pride in its parks and recreational programs, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Families can enjoy quality time in the various parks, participating in sports, picnicking, or simply taking a stroll. Cheney’s commitment to providing a family-friendly environment is evident through its well-maintained parks and programs designed to cater to the needs of children.
Cheney, Washington, stands out as one of the cheapest places to live in the state, offering affordable housing options and a small-town feel. Its proximity to Spokane and Spokane Valley adds to its appeal, providing residents with access to additional amenities and job opportunities. Families, in particular, will appreciate the family-friendly community with its parks and recreational programs geared towards children.
Pasco
Pasco, Washington is another affordable city that offers a great quality of life. Pasco, WA is one of the few towns on this list where the home price continues to rise: $427,000 was the average home sale price, a 3% increase from the previous year.
With a population of around 78,000, Pasco provides the perfect balance between small-town charm and access to amenities. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Sacajawea State Park offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. It’s a great place to unwind and connect with nature.
In addition to its affordability and natural beauty, Pasco also boasts a strong job market. Its strategic location and transportation hub status make it an attractive option for businesses, leading to more employment opportunities for residents. As someone who visits Pasco at least once a year, I can attest Pasco is growing rapidly, with many entry-level jobs for younger people and really great food options in what was once somewhat of a restaurant-desert.
If you’re looking for a cheap place to live in Washington, consider Pasco. With its affordability, outdoor activities, and promising job market, it’s a great option for those seeking a balanced and comfortable lifestyle.
Union Gap
Union Gap is one of the most affordable cities in Washington. With a median home price of $206,000, Union Gap offers affordable housing options for both renters and buyers, and the cheapest city on our list.
The home price to income ratio in Union Gap is also favorable, making it an attractive place for individuals and families looking for affordable housing and a most affordable place to live. On the other hand, Union Gap has also seen an 18% increase in home prices over the last year, meaning people are discovering this reasonable spot!
One of the key features of Union Gap is its status as the retail hub for the Yakima Valley. With a variety of shopping centers and outlets, residents of Union Gap have access to a wide range of retail options without having to travel far. This convenience not only adds to the quality of life for residents but also contributes to the affordability factor, as they have easy access to affordable goods and services.
While located very close to Yakima, Union Gap is its own city and has its own activities – but you can get to Yakima easily and enjoy their amenities as well! In Union Gap, residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating.
Overall, Union Gap offers a high quality of life at an affordable cost. Its status as a retail hub, along with its affordable housing options and natural beauty, make it an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable city to call home.
Toppenish
Nestled in the heart of Washington, Toppenish is a tucked away location that offers a picturesque and charming small-town atmosphere. With its rich arts community and quaint downtown area, Toppenish is a perfect choice for those seeking an affordable and unique place to live.
The town of Toppenish is known for its vibrant arts scene. Local galleries and theaters showcase the talent of the community, making it an ideal place for artists and art enthusiasts alike. Residents can immerse themselves in cultural events and exhibitions that truly enrich the town’s character.
Interestingly, Toppenish is located within the Yakama Indian Reservation, and as such has several opportunities to gamble within the town itself. In addition to gambling, many of the casinos have buffets, concerts, and more.
Toppenish is also a great place to learn more about the Yakama Nation and the history of tribes within Washington state. You can visit the Yakama Nation Museum and Cultural Center, with exhibition halls on wildlife, dwellings, tools, treaties, and more.
You might not know this, but Toppenish is also known as the City of Museums and Murals thanks to all of the beautiful murals located around Toppenish, many of which depict the town’s history. Check out the murals online here.
As far as cost of living, Toppenish is actually 6% cheaper than the national average, making it significantly lower than Seattle as well. The average home sale price in Toppenish is $258,000, with a 20% drop since last year.
Davenport
Looking for an affordable place to call home in Washington? Look no further than Davenport. With its small-town charm and reasonable cost of living, Davenport is one of the cheapest places to live in Washington state.
With a population of just over 1,700, Davenport offers a suburban rural mix feel, perfect for those seeking a close-knit community. Because Davenport is so small, house prices fluctuate based on availability, but in general you’ll find home prices to be significantly cheaper in Davenport than in Seattle.
Located within 2 hours of Lake Roosevelt, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Davenport. Whether it’s boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty, Lake Roosevelt offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities.
Davenport offers a small-town atmosphere, excellent schools, a suburban rural mix feel, and the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities at nearby Lake Roosevelt. With reasonably priced real estate, Davenport is a fantastic option for those seeking an affordable place to live in Washington.
Moses Lake
Moses Lake, located in Eastern Washington, is a tucked away spot with affordable cost of living and abundant recreational opportunities. With a diverse economy and a population of approximately 25,000, this city offers a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
One of the biggest draws of Moses Lake is its affordable housing market. The median home value in this area is around $355,000, with a 2.2% decrease in costs from the year before.
In addition to its affordable cost of living, Moses Lake boasts a diverse economy. From agriculture to manufacturing and technology, the city offers a range of job opportunities, making it an attractive location for professionals seeking new prospects. Every time I visit Moses Lake, I notice a new section of town, with new stores and homes. Moses Lake is certainly a good place to check out if you want to be close to Spokane without living in the city – Moses Lake is only 1.5 hours from Spokane.
When it’s time to unwind and enjoy some recreation, residents of Moses Lake have many options. The city is nestled near the beautiful Moses Lake, which offers a range of water sports and outdoor activities. With miles of shoreline, locals can indulge in fishing, boating, and swimming.
With its affordable cost of living, diverse economy, recreational opportunities, and culinary scene, Moses Lake is a fantastic place to call home. Whether you’re looking for an affordable place to live or a city with plenty of recreational activities, Moses Lake has it all.
Spokane Valley
Spokane Valley is known as one of the cheapest places to live in Washington, making it an attractive option for individuals and families looking for affordability without compromising on quality of life. This vibrant city offers a family-friendly environment with a range of natural attractions and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Located just minutes away from Spokane and Coeur d’Alene, Spokane Valley provides easy access to the best of both worlds. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of outdoor activities available. With numerous hiking trails, kayaking rivers, and the opportunity to ski at nearby Mt. Spokane, residents can indulge in their love for the great outdoors.
When it comes to shopping, Spokane Valley does not disappoint. The city is home to a variety of shopping centers and malls, catering to all tastes and budgets. From high-end retailers to discounted outlets, there is something for everyone. Honestly, even though we love Spokane, we definitely find ourselves visiting ‘the Valley’, as it’s called, for wine bars, abundance of outdoor adventures, and… you know… HomeGoods. What can we say, we love HomeGoods!
In addition to its natural beauty and shopping scene, Spokane Valley offers majestic views that can be admired throughout the city. From the rolling hills to the stunning landscapes, residents can enjoy picturesque scenery in every corner.
Food enthusiasts will also find plenty of culinary options in Spokane Valley. While the Valley used to be known as being a place “only for” chain restaurants, it definitely doesn’t have that reputation now! From Just American Desserts to Crimson Hearth (on our list of best brunch in Spokane, too!) to Iolite Lounge and many more places, Spokane Valley offers a peaceful life and plenty of delicious dishes.
With its affordable cost of living, natural attractions, family-friendly environment, and thriving amenities, Spokane Valley proves to be an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable place to call home.
Frequently Asked Questions about Washington State Affordability
When considering a move or relocation, one of the first questions that often comes to mind is the affordability of the area. Washington State, with its stunning landscapes and thriving cities, is no exception. Here are some frequently asked questions about Washington State affordability to help you navigate your search for the cheapest places to live.
Should You Move to Washington State? The Most Affordable Places to Live in Washington State
Washington State offers a unique blend of natural beauty, thriving cities, and affordability. We highly recommend you visit some of these best places for affordable living in Washington state before you make a decision. After all, even though we found Spokane to be the perfect place for us, you may want something closer to King County, or a place where there is quick access to the coast.
Understanding the local tax rates, the absence of a state income tax, and the average income can help you make informed decisions when searching for the cheapest places to live in Washington State.
Ready to continue your tour of Washington state? Next, check out our article on the ultimate Washington state bucket list!
Sources:
1 – https://www.rentcafe.com/cost-of-living-calculator/us/wa/
2 – https://www.nerdwallet.com/cost-of-living-calculator/compare/seattle-wa-vs-spokane-wa
3 – https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/Yakima_WA/overview
4 – https://www.redfin.com/city/14624/WA/Prosser/housing-market
5 – https://ofm.wa.gov/washington-data-research/statewide-data/washington-trends/econom
