Cost of Living: Indianapolis, IN vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Indianapolis

Indiana
74
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Indianapolis is 18% cheaper than Spokane.

$1,112/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↑ 3%
$62,995/yr ↓ 4%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↑ 4%
$207,000 ↓ 37%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 58%
$1,124/mo ↓ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↑ 8%
882,043
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

3.05%
Income Tax
0%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
0.83%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

21.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Indianapolis, IN and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 74 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $2,750/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Indianapolis is $207,000 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Indiana's 3.05% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Indianapolis vs Spokane — common questions

Is Indianapolis or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Indianapolis is cheaper to live in with an index of 74 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Indianapolis and Spokane?
Median rent in Indianapolis is $1,112/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $29/month.
Which city has higher income, Indianapolis or Spokane?
Median household income is $62,995 in Indianapolis and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $2,750/year higher in Spokane.
How do taxes compare between Indiana and Washington?
Indiana has 3.05% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Indianapolis or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Indianapolis has a cost index of 74 with median rent of $1,112/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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