Cost of Living: Spokane, WA vs Athens, GA (2026)

Spokane

Washington
90
VS

Athens

Georgia
83

Spokane is 8% more expensive than Athens.

$1,141/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,162/mo ↑ 2%
$65,745/yr ↑ 27%
Median Income
$51,655/yr ↓ 21%
$326,200 ↑ 20%
Home Value
$271,800 ↓ 17%
$1,213/mo ↑ 4%
Owner Costs
$1,163/mo ↓ 4%
229,228
Population
126,987

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
5.49%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.92%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

20.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
27.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Spokane, WA and Athens, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $14,090/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Spokane is $326,200 compared to $271,800 in Athens.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Georgia's 5.49% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spokane vs Athens — common questions

Is Spokane or Athens cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Spokane and Athens?
Median rent in Spokane is $1,141/month and in Athens it's $1,162/month — a difference of $21/month.
Which city has higher income, Spokane or Athens?
Median household income is $65,745 in Spokane and $51,655 in Athens. Median household income is $14,090/year higher in Spokane.
How do taxes compare between Washington and Georgia?
Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Spokane or Athens?
It depends on your priorities. Spokane has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,141/mo, while Athens has a cost index of 83 with rent of $1,162/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Spokane details → View Athens details →

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