Cost of Living: Spokane, WA vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Spokane

Washington
90
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Spokane is 26% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,141/mo ↓ 26%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 36%
$65,745/yr ↓ 19%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 23%
$326,200 ↓ 25%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 33%
$1,213/mo ↓ 26%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 35%
229,228
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
4.25%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.92%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

20.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Spokane, WA and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $411/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $4,932/year.

Median household income is $15,344/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Spokane is $326,200 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Michigan's 4.25% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spokane vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Spokane or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Spokane is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Spokane and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Spokane is $1,141/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $411/month.
Which city has higher income, Spokane or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $65,745 in Spokane and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $15,344/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between Washington and Michigan?
Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Spokane or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Spokane has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,141/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Spokane details → View Ann Arbor details →

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