Tacoma, WA vs Elk Grove, CA: 126 vs 168

$1,597/mo ↓ 27%

Median Rent

$2,180/mo ↑ 37%

$83,857/yr ↓ 31%

Median Income

$122,229/yr ↑ 46%

$454,600 ↓ 25%

Home Value

$603,400 ↑ 33%

$1,747/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$2,227/mo ↑ 27%

220,482

Population

177,221

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tacoma, WA and Elk Grove, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 168 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $583/month cheaper in Tacoma, saving renters about $6,996/year.

Median household income is $38,372/year higher in Elk Grove. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tacoma is $454,600 compared to $603,400 in Elk Grove.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Tacoma residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tacoma vs Elk Grove — common questions

Is Tacoma or Elk Grove cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tacoma is cheaper to live in with an index of 126 compared to 168 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tacoma and Elk Grove?

Median rent in Tacoma is $1,597/month and in Elk Grove it's $2,180/month — a difference of $583/month.

Which city has higher income, Tacoma or Elk Grove?

Median household income is $83,857 in Tacoma and $122,229 in Elk Grove. Median household income is $38,372/year higher in Elk Grove.

How do taxes compare between Washington and California?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Tacoma or Elk Grove?

It depends on your priorities. Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,597/mo, while Elk Grove has a cost index of 168 with rent of $2,180/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tacoma, WA vs Elk Grove, CA (2026)

Tacoma

Elk Grove

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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