Cost of Living: Arlington, VA vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Arlington

Virginia
203
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Arlington is 113% more expensive than Spokane.

$2,275/mo ↑ 99%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↓ 50%
$140,160/yr ↑ 113%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↓ 53%
$864,800 ↑ 165%
Home Value
$326,200 ↓ 62%
$2,414/mo ↑ 99%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↓ 50%
235,463
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
0%
5.3%
Sales Tax
6.5%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

19.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arlington, VA and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 203 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,134/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $13,608/year.

Median household income is $74,415/year higher in Arlington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arlington is $864,800 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Virginia's 5.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arlington vs Spokane — common questions

Is Arlington or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Spokane is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 203 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Arlington and Spokane?
Median rent in Arlington is $2,275/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $1,134/month.
Which city has higher income, Arlington or Spokane?
Median household income is $140,160 in Arlington and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $74,415/year higher in Arlington.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Washington?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Arlington or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Arlington has a cost index of 203 with median rent of $2,275/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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