Cost of Living: Seattle, WA vs Gilbert, AZ (2026)

Seattle

Washington
196
VS

Gilbert

Arizona
148

Seattle is 32% more expensive than Gilbert.

$1,998/mo ↓ 1%
Median Rent
$2,028/mo ↑ 2%
$121,984/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$121,351/yr ≈ Same
$912,100 ↑ 76%
Home Value
$518,600 ↓ 43%
$2,220/mo ↑ 16%
Owner Costs
$1,908/mo ↓ 14%
741,440
Population
271,118

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
2.5%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
5.6%
0.92%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

19.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Gilbert, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 148 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $633/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $518,600 in Gilbert.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Gilbert — common questions

Is Seattle or Gilbert cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Gilbert is cheaper to live in with an index of 148 compared to 196 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Seattle and Gilbert?
Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Gilbert it's $2,028/month — a difference of $30/month.
Which city has higher income, Seattle or Gilbert?
Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $121,351 in Gilbert. Median household income is $633/year higher in Seattle.
How do taxes compare between Washington and Arizona?
Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Seattle or Gilbert?
It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/mo, while Gilbert has a cost index of 148 with rent of $2,028/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Seattle details → View Gilbert details →

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