Spokane, WA vs Salem, OR: 90 vs 105

$1,141/mo ↓ 14%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 16%

$65,745/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 9%

$326,200 ↓ 15%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 17%

$1,213/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 19%

229,228

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Spokane, WA and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $182/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $2,184/year.

Median household income is $6,155/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Spokane is $326,200 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Oregon's 9.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spokane vs Salem — common questions

Is Spokane or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Spokane is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Spokane and Salem?

Median rent in Spokane is $1,141/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $182/month.

Which city has higher income, Spokane or Salem?

Median household income is $65,745 in Spokane and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $6,155/year higher in Salem.

How do taxes compare between Washington and Oregon?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Spokane or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Spokane has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,141/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Spokane, WA vs Salem, OR (2026)

Spokane

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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