Cost of Living: Pittsburgh, PA vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania
76
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Pittsburgh is 16% cheaper than Spokane.

$1,221/mo ↑ 7%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↓ 7%
$64,137/yr ↓ 2%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↑ 3%
$193,200 ↓ 41%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 69%
$1,136/mo ↓ 6%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↑ 7%
303,620
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

22.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $80/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $960/year.

Median household income is $1,608/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Pennsylvania's 3.07% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Spokane — common questions

Is Pittsburgh or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Pittsburgh is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Pittsburgh and Spokane?
Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $80/month.
Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Spokane?
Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $1,608/year higher in Spokane.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Washington?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Pittsburgh or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/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 Pittsburgh details → View Spokane details →

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