Cost of Living: Spokane, WA vs Providence, RI (2026)

Spokane

Washington
90
VS

Providence

Rhode Island
99

Spokane is 9% cheaper than Providence.

$1,141/mo ↓ 14%
Median Rent
$1,333/mo ↑ 17%
$65,745/yr ↓ 2%
Median Income
$66,772/yr ↑ 2%
$326,200 ↑ 1%
Home Value
$322,800 ↓ 1%
$1,213/mo ↓ 17%
Owner Costs
$1,467/mo ↑ 21%
229,228
Population
190,214

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
5.99%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
7.0%
0.92%
Property Tax
1.53%

Affordability

20.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Spokane, WA and Providence, RI, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $192/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $2,304/year.

Median household income is $1,027/year higher in Providence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Spokane is $326,200 compared to $322,800 in Providence.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Rhode Island's 5.99% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spokane vs Providence — common questions

Is Spokane or Providence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Spokane is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 99 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Spokane and Providence?
Median rent in Spokane is $1,141/month and in Providence it's $1,333/month — a difference of $192/month.
Which city has higher income, Spokane or Providence?
Median household income is $65,745 in Spokane and $66,772 in Providence. Median household income is $1,027/year higher in Providence.
How do taxes compare between Washington and Rhode Island?
Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.
Should I move to Spokane or Providence?
It depends on your priorities. Spokane has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,141/mo, while Providence has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,333/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Spokane details → View Providence details →

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