Cost of Living: Lincoln, NE vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Lincoln

Nebraska
77
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Lincoln is 14% cheaper than Spokane.

$1,045/mo ↓ 8%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↑ 9%
$69,991/yr ↑ 6%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↓ 6%
$248,200 ↓ 24%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 31%
$1,140/mo ↓ 6%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↑ 6%
291,932
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

6.64%
Income Tax
0%
5.5%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
1.73%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

17.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lincoln, NE and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 77 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $96/month cheaper in Lincoln, saving renters about $1,152/year.

Median household income is $4,246/year higher in Lincoln. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lincoln is $248,200 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Nebraska's 6.64% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lincoln vs Spokane — common questions

Is Lincoln or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Lincoln is cheaper to live in with an index of 77 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Lincoln and Spokane?
Median rent in Lincoln is $1,045/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $96/month.
Which city has higher income, Lincoln or Spokane?
Median household income is $69,991 in Lincoln and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $4,246/year higher in Lincoln.
How do taxes compare between Nebraska and Washington?
Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Lincoln or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Lincoln has a cost index of 77 with median rent of $1,045/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.
View Lincoln details → View Spokane details →

More Comparisons

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