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

Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania
76
VS

Tacoma

Washington
126

Pittsburgh is 40% cheaper than Tacoma.

$1,221/mo ↓ 24%
Median Rent
$1,597/mo ↑ 31%
$64,137/yr ↓ 24%
Median Income
$83,857/yr ↑ 31%
$193,200 ↓ 58%
Home Value
$454,600 ↑ 135%
$1,136/mo ↓ 35%
Owner Costs
$1,747/mo ↑ 54%
303,620
Population
220,482

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
22.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Tacoma, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $376/month cheaper in Pittsburgh, saving renters about $4,512/year.

Median household income is $19,720/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $454,600 in Tacoma.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Tacoma — common questions

Is Pittsburgh or Tacoma cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Pittsburgh is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 126 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Pittsburgh and Tacoma?
Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Tacoma it's $1,597/month — a difference of $376/month.
Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Tacoma?
Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $83,857 in Tacoma. Median household income is $19,720/year higher in Tacoma.
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 Tacoma?
It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/mo, while Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,597/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Pittsburgh details → View Tacoma details →

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