Cost of Living: Spokane, WA vs Columbia, MO (2026)

Spokane

Washington
90
VS

Columbia

Missouri
80

Spokane is 12% more expensive than Columbia.

$1,141/mo ↑ 7%
Median Rent
$1,067/mo ↓ 6%
$65,745/yr ↑ 2%
Median Income
$64,488/yr ↓ 2%
$326,200 ↑ 22%
Home Value
$268,300 ↓ 18%
$1,213/mo ↑ 9%
Owner Costs
$1,114/mo ↓ 8%
229,228
Population
127,200

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.92%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

20.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Spokane, WA and Columbia, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $74/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $888/year.

Median household income is $1,257/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Spokane is $326,200 compared to $268,300 in Columbia.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Missouri's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spokane vs Columbia — common questions

Is Spokane or Columbia cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Spokane and Columbia?
Median rent in Spokane is $1,141/month and in Columbia it's $1,067/month — a difference of $74/month.
Which city has higher income, Spokane or Columbia?
Median household income is $65,745 in Spokane and $64,488 in Columbia. Median household income is $1,257/year higher in Spokane.
How do taxes compare between Washington and Missouri?
Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Spokane or Columbia?
It depends on your priorities. Spokane has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,141/mo, while Columbia has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,067/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Spokane details → View Columbia details →

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