Seattle, WA vs Richmond, VA: 196 vs 98

$1,998/mo ↑ 52%

Median Rent

$1,314/mo ↓ 34%

$121,984/yr ↑ 95%

Median Income

$62,671/yr ↓ 49%

$912,100 ↑ 178%

Home Value

$328,100 ↓ 64%

$2,220/mo ↑ 62%

Owner Costs

$1,374/mo ↓ 38%

741,440

Population

227,595

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Richmond, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 98 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $684/month cheaper in Richmond, saving renters about $8,208/year.

Median household income is $59,313/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $328,100 in Richmond.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over Virginia's 5.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Richmond — common questions

Is Seattle or Richmond cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Richmond is cheaper to live in with an index of 98 compared to 196 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Seattle and Richmond?

Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Richmond it's $1,314/month — a difference of $684/month.

Which city has higher income, Seattle or Richmond?

Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $62,671 in Richmond. Median household income is $59,313/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between Washington and Virginia?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Seattle or Richmond?

It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/mo, while Richmond has a cost index of 98 with rent of $1,314/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Seattle, WA vs Richmond, VA (2026)

Seattle

Richmond

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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