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

Tacoma

Washington
126
VS

Vancouver

Washington
123

Tacoma is 3% more expensive than Vancouver.

$1,597/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,632/mo ↑ 2%
$83,857/yr ↑ 7%
Median Income
$78,156/yr ↓ 7%
$454,600 ↑ 3%
Home Value
$440,300 ↓ 3%
$1,747/mo ↑ 9%
Owner Costs
$1,607/mo ↓ 8%
220,482
Population
192,696

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

22.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tacoma, WA and Vancouver, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 123 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $5,701/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tacoma is $454,600 compared to $440,300 in Vancouver.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tacoma vs Vancouver — common questions

Is Tacoma or Vancouver cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Vancouver is cheaper to live in with an index of 123 compared to 126 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Tacoma and Vancouver?
Median rent in Tacoma is $1,597/month and in Vancouver it's $1,632/month — a difference of $35/month.
Which city has higher income, Tacoma or Vancouver?
Median household income is $83,857 in Tacoma and $78,156 in Vancouver. Median household income is $5,701/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 Tacoma or Vancouver?
It depends on your priorities. Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,597/mo, while Vancouver has a cost index of 123 with rent of $1,632/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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