Cost of Living: Spokane, WA vs Tacoma, WA (2026)

Spokane

Washington
90
VS

Tacoma

Washington
126

Spokane is 29% cheaper than Tacoma.

$1,141/mo ↓ 29%
Median Rent
$1,597/mo ↑ 40%
$65,745/yr ↓ 22%
Median Income
$83,857/yr ↑ 28%
$326,200 ↓ 28%
Home Value
$454,600 ↑ 39%
$1,213/mo ↓ 31%
Owner Costs
$1,747/mo ↑ 44%
229,228
Population
220,482

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

20.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Spokane, WA and Tacoma, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $456/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $5,472/year.

Median household income is $18,112/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Spokane is $326,200 compared to $454,600 in Tacoma.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Washington.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spokane vs Tacoma — common questions

Is Spokane or Tacoma cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Spokane is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 126 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Spokane and Tacoma?
Median rent in Spokane is $1,141/month and in Tacoma it's $1,597/month — a difference of $456/month.
Which city has higher income, Spokane or Tacoma?
Median household income is $65,745 in Spokane and $83,857 in Tacoma. Median household income is $18,112/year higher in Tacoma.
How do taxes compare between Washington and Washington?
Both cities are in Washington and share the same state tax rates: 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Spokane or Tacoma?
It depends on your priorities. Spokane has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,141/mo, while Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,597/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Spokane details → View Tacoma details →

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