San Diego, CA vs Spokane, WA: 197 vs 90

$2,223/mo ↑ 95%

Median Rent

$1,141/mo ↓ 49%

$104,321/yr ↑ 59%

Median Income

$65,745/yr ↓ 37%

$848,500 ↑ 160%

Home Value

$326,200 ↓ 62%

$2,308/mo ↑ 90%

Owner Costs

$1,213/mo ↓ 47%

1,385,061

Population

229,228

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,082/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $12,984/year.

Median household income is $38,576/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Spokane — common questions

Is San Diego or Spokane cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Spokane is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Spokane?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $1,082/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Spokane?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $38,576/year higher in San Diego.

How do taxes compare between California and Washington?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to San Diego or Spokane?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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.

Cost of Living: San Diego, CA vs Spokane, WA (2026)

San Diego

Spokane

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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