Cost of Living in Spokane vs Seattle & Portland: Which Is More Affordable?
- Nick Briggs
- Oct 28
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 1
🏙️ Introduction: Pacific Northwest Price Check
The Pacific Northwest is known for its scenic beauty, innovative culture, and vibrant cities—but also for its rising living costs. If you're comparing the cost of living in Spokane vs Seattle and Portland, you're not alone. Each city offers a distinct lifestyle and price point, but which one is the best fit for your budget and future goals?
As a Spokane real estate agent, I’m writing this guide to help you make an informed, cost-savvy decision backed by the most recent housing and economic data.
🏠 Housing Market Showdown
When it comes to real estate, housing is the biggest factor driving the cost of living Spokane vs Seattle and Portland. Let’s break it down:
Spokane:
Median Home Price: $429,000
Average Sold Price: $474,000
Price per Sq. Ft.: $212
Average Days on Market: 32
Sale-to-List Ratio: 96%
Seattle:
Median/Average Price: ≈ $750,000
Price per Sq. Ft.: ≈ $550
Faster-selling market: 20–25 days
Sale-to-List Ratio: 99%
Portland:
Median Home Price: ≈ $540,000
Price per Sq. Ft.: ≈ $380
Average Days on Market: ~30
Sale-to-List Ratio: 97%
Renters Take Note: Spokane’s average rent for a one-bedroom sits around $924/month, far below Seattle’s $1,973 and Portland’s $1,664. For two-bedroom units, expect $1,300–$1,550 in Spokane, making it ideal for cost-conscious renters.
💡 Monthly Utility Costs Compared
Utility costs stay fairly level across Spokane and Seattle, averaging $350/month, while Portland edges lower at around $320/month due to its temperate climate.
Why Spokane Stands Out: Spokane benefits from inexpensive hydropower, helping offset higher heating needs during winter months. The consistency in costs offers predictability for budgeting homeowners.
🚗 Transit & Driving Costs Across the PNW
Transportation preferences vary widely:
City | Monthly Transit Pass | Gas & Driving Costs |
Spokane | ~$60 | Lowest of all three |
Seattle | ~$99 | High parking & gas costs |
Portland | ~$100 | Efficient but busy |
In Spokane, car ownership is more common. With cheaper gas and less traffic, your transportation budget goes further—especially in suburban areas. Meanwhile, Seattle and Portland rely heavily on public transportation systems to offset higher car-related expenses.
🎯 Ask me about Spokane neighborhoods with short commutes and affordable parking!
🛒 Food Costs in Spokane vs Seattle & Portland
All three cities are above the national average for groceries, but Spokane sits comfortably in the middle:
Spokane: +10%
Seattle: +15%
Portland: +7%
If a grocery basket costs $100 nationally, expect to pay:
$110 in Spokane
$115 in Seattle
$107 in Portland
Dining Out? Spokane’s restaurants offer 10–15% lower prices than Seattle’s. A mid-range dinner for two:
Spokane: ~$75
Seattle: ~$100
Portland: ~$80
🩺 Healthcare Costs and Insurance Trends
Health expenses are essential to consider for both individuals and families.
Spokane: About 8% above national average
Seattle: Around 28% higher
Portland: Approximately 10% over average
Cost of a primary care visit:
Spokane: ~$160
Portland: ~$180–190
Seattle: $200+
📌 Disclaimer: This is not medical or financial advice. Please consult a licensed professional for healthcare planning.
🎟️ Entertainment & Essentials: Who Pays Less?
From gym memberships to haircuts, Spokane proves consistently more affordable in the "extras" category:
Expense | Spokane | Seattle | Portland |
Haircut | $28 | $48 | $35 |
Movie Ticket | $14 | $15 | $13 |
Gym Membership | ~$45 | ~$70 | ~$55 |
These lower everyday costs add up over time—freeing up your budget for savings, travel, or upgrades.
🏡 Which City Offers the Best Value in 2025?
Here’s how the cities rank by overall affordability:
City | Cost of Living vs. U.S. Average | Market Type | Affordability Rank |
Spokane | ~4% below average | Balanced/Neutral Market | ⭐ Most Affordable |
Portland | ~17% above average | Slightly Seller’s Market | Moderate |
Seattle | ~45% above average | Strong Seller’s Market | Least Affordable |
If you’re planning to relocate within the Pacific Northwest, Spokane offers the strongest value—with stable housing, lower daily expenses, and space to grow.
Final Verdict: Spokane vs Seattle & Portland Cost of Living
Spokane isn’t just more affordable—it’s more livable. With a well-balanced housing market, lower utilities, and reasonable grocery and health costs, it's the ideal destination for anyone seeking a sustainable city lifestyle without big-city prices.
As a Spokane real estate agent, I specialize in helping buyers, sellers, and investors find value in this competitive but welcoming market. Whether you're relocating or investing, I’d be honored to guide you.
📞 Let’s talk about what Spokane has to offer—reach out anytime!
❓FAQs: Cost of Living Spokane vs Seattle & Portland
Is Spokane cheaper to live in than Seattle or Portland in 2025? Yes. Spokane has the lowest overall cost of living among the three cities, sitting roughly 4% below the national average—far more affordable than Seattle (+45%) and Portland (+17%).
How much is rent in Spokane compared to Seattle and Portland? Spokane’s average rent for a one-bedroom is about $924, while Seattle's is around $1,973 and Portland’s about $1,664. Spokane is clearly the best option for renters.
What is the cost of living Spokane vs Seattle for households? Households will find Spokane more affordable due to lower housing, grocery, healthcare, and transportation costs. The lower expenses allow for better long-term budgeting and savings.
Why is Spokane more affordable than other Pacific Northwest cities? Spokane combines lower housing prices, cost-efficient utilities, and affordable daily expenses. It offers the benefits of urban living without the steep costs of coastal metros.
📌 Related Blog: Moving to Spokane
About Me
My name is Nick Briggs
Being born and raised in Spokane I grew up knowing what a special place this city is, and it was my dream to help others create a life in this wonderful community by guiding them in real estate. I spent many years in the customer service industry, the experience of listening and communication showed me how much I truly loved helping people. I attended Gonzaga University and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration to add to my knowledge of guiding, managing, negotiating, and listening to individuals, helping them achieve their real estate goals.
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