Seattle, WA vs Providence, RI: 196 vs 99

$1,998/mo ↑ 50%

Median Rent

$1,333/mo ↓ 33%

$121,984/yr ↑ 83%

Median Income

$66,772/yr ↓ 45%

$912,100 ↑ 183%

Home Value

$322,800 ↓ 65%

$2,220/mo ↑ 51%

Owner Costs

$1,467/mo ↓ 34%

741,440

Population

190,214

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Providence, RI, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $665/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $7,980/year.

Median household income is $55,212/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $322,800 in Providence.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over Rhode Island's 5.99% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Providence — common questions

Is Seattle or Providence cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 196 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Seattle and Providence?

Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Providence it's $1,333/month — a difference of $665/month.

Which city has higher income, Seattle or Providence?

Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $66,772 in Providence. Median household income is $55,212/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between Washington and Rhode Island?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to Seattle or Providence?

It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/mo, while Providence has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,333/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Seattle, WA vs Providence, RI (2026)

Seattle

Providence

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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