Cost of Living: Seattle, WA vs Reno, NV (2026)

Seattle

Washington
196
VS

Reno

Nevada
122

Seattle is 61% more expensive than Reno.

$1,998/mo ↑ 38%
Median Rent
$1,453/mo ↓ 27%
$121,984/yr ↑ 55%
Median Income
$78,448/yr ↓ 36%
$912,100 ↑ 83%
Home Value
$498,600 ↓ 45%
$2,220/mo ↑ 50%
Owner Costs
$1,482/mo ↓ 33%
741,440
Population
268,959

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
6.85%
0.92%
Property Tax
0.53%

Affordability

19.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.2%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Reno, NV, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 122 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $545/month cheaper in Reno, saving renters about $6,540/year.

Median household income is $43,536/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $498,600 in Reno.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Reno — common questions

Is Seattle or Reno cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Reno is cheaper to live in with an index of 122 compared to 196 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Seattle and Reno?
Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Reno it's $1,453/month — a difference of $545/month.
Which city has higher income, Seattle or Reno?
Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $78,448 in Reno. Median household income is $43,536/year higher in Seattle.
How do taxes compare between Washington and Nevada?
Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Nevada has 0% income tax, 6.85% sales tax, and 0.53% property tax.
Should I move to Seattle or Reno?
It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/mo, while Reno has a cost index of 122 with rent of $1,453/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Seattle details → View Reno details →

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