10 Cheapest Places to Live in Washington, 2024

Before you make the move to Washington, there are a few essential things to consider. First and foremost, it's crucial to get a handle on the cost of living in the state and to decide which city suits you best.

Washington's appeal is undeniable, with its rugged mountain vistas and breathtaking natural beauty consistently ranking it among the top states for life expectancy.

Despite its growing popularity, Washington still offers many affordable cities. So, if you're in search of the best deals, we've compiled a list of the ten most budget-friendly places to reside in the state. Additionally, we've tapped into the insights of YouTube's Nowhere Diary to provide you with valuable advice on affordable living in Washington.

Let's get started and explore your options for affordable living in the Evergreen State!

Note: The data provided below comes from our rent estimates. These numbers expand beyond those listed on our platform. For further information, learn about our methodology.

Before you decide to move to Washington, learn more about the average rental prices in the state.

• The average rent for a Washington studio apartment is: $1,644.35
• The average rent for a Washington one-bedroom apartment is: $1,664.67
• The average rent for a Washington two-bedroom apartment is: $1,990.49
• The average rent for a Washington three-bedroom studio apartment is: $2,120.36

Spokane Valley

• Population: 102,976
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,318.67
• Median Household Income: $51,961
• Rent Change in the Past Year: 23.09%
• Walk Score: 30
• Transit Score: 28
• Bike Score: 44

Spokane Valley is a mid-sized city just 20 miles west of the Idaho border. With a thriving arts and culture vibe, an educated population, and attractive downtown, not only is Spokane Valley one of the cheapest places to live in Washington, but it is also one of the most popular.

The largest suburb of Spokane, Spokane Valley, is just east of Spokane and west of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The shape of the region surrounds Millwood on three sides.

The climate in Spokane Valley is a bit different from what you might expect in a Pacific Northwest state. In Spokane Valley, you’ll find a relatively dry environment and simple infrastructure, but the city is on the rise. However, you can still easily find outdoor entertainment by visiting Mirabeau Meadows Park, Terrace View Park, or Valley Mission Park.

If you are looking to mix things up, you can check out the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum, the Splash Down Waterpark, or the Nut Factory. Spokane Valley makes for a beautiful place to live, with all-ages indoor and outdoor activities readily available. In addition, a handful of highly-rated public schools serve Spokane Valley, including Libby Center, Central Valley High School, Greenacres Middle School, and Sunrise Elementary School.

Spokane Valley is a popular suburban location for young professionals who want to settle down and begin their careers. The top five employers of these individuals include Spokane Public Schools, the county, the State of Washington, Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Children’s Hospital, and the 92nd Air Refueling Wing.

Learn about the average rent in Spokane Valley.

Spokane

• Population: 228,989
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,364
• Median Household Income: $50,306
• Change in Rent in the Past Year: 28.16%
• Walk Score: 49
• Transit Score: 36
• Bike Score: 52

Known as the gateway to the American West as a once central rail hub, Spokane is now a vibrant, thriving city. Get an authentic taste of the Inland Northwest culture with various shopping, entertainment, and outdoor opportunities alike.

Anyone looking to soak up the sheer beauty Spokane has to offer can enjoy a day at Riverfront Park, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This impressive park covers over 100 acres of land and water and is a favorite spot for locals and tourists. Beyond gondola rides, walks along the suspension bridges, and admiring the countless water fountains the park holds, enjoy regular community events throughout the year.

The history of Spokane is rich and spread across the city. For example, the historic Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox might have originally opened its doors back in 1931 but received a complete renovation at the turn of the millennium. Located in the heart of the Davenport Arts District downtown, a stop at the theater is sure to make for an exciting night on the town.

Spokane’s residents love the familiarity of the small-town atmosphere it provides without any limitations to big-city amenities. The city’s motto is “Near Nature, Near Perfect,” which sums up all Spokane offers, including the Columbia River, which runs through downtown.

Learn about the average rent in Spokane.

Lakewood

• Population: 63,612
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,569.33
• Rent Change in the Past Year: 17%
• Median Household Income: $51,972
• Walk Score: 40
• Bike Score: 43

The small city of Lakewood was only incorporated in early 1996, though has rapidly established itself as one of the most enjoyable and beautiful places to reside near Puget Sound. So it’s not surprising that Lakewood is quickly becoming so popular, considering its astonishing views and easy access to the bigger city. Although Lakewood is a relatively new city, it has already grown to be the second-largest city in Pierce County, falling behind Tacoma.

Despite Lakewood covering a mere 20 square miles, it is home to ten different lakes. These lakes each offer a wide variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, kayaking, and more. The most famous Lakewood lakes include the American Lake, the Steilacoom Lake, and Lake Tapps.

Between the lakes and local parks, you will find various Lakewood neighborhoods. Some of the more popular areas of Lakewood include Oakbrook, Idlewild, and Carter Lake.

The major employers in Lakewood include the McChord Air Force Base and the Clover Park School District. McChord has over 50,000 military employees from residents of Lakewood and surrounding cities. The school district employs around 1,000 staff, most of which are Lakewood residents. Healthcare is another big industry in the town, with the MultiCare Lakewood Clinic and Urgent Care employing many residents.

Learn more about the average rent in Lakewood.

Vancouver

• Population: 190,915
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,617
• Rent Change in the Past Year: 14.46%
• Median Household Income: $61,714
• Walk Score: 41
• Transit Score: 34
• Bike Score: 59

Vancouver, Washington, not to be mistaken for its namesake located 300 miles north in Canada, is another popular and affordable city. Located just across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon, Vancouver boasts a much cheaper cost of living. Regardless, Portland is a quick 12-minute drive away, making Vancouver an excellent option for commuters looking to save.

Many young professionals and retirees move to Vancouver, as the city does not have an income tax. Additionally, unlike the more densely populated Portland, Vancouver has a charming, old downtown, and the city itself is filled with mountains, trees, rivers, and lakes. There is absolutely no shortage of nature in Vancouver.

Vancouver’s famous historic sites include Fort Vancouver, Pearson Field, Museum, Officers Row, and Clark County Historical Museum. Equally impressive is the art-filled entertainment, including public art and galleries, Esther Short Park, Kiggins Theater, and Sunlight Supply Amphitheater.

Best of all, the city has a wide range of free activities. You can grab a bike across the Columbia River on your choice of one of two bridges, check out the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, or take a stroll amongst all of the quaint shops in Uptown Village. With something to offer everyone, Vancouver is a beautiful, continuously growing little city.

Learn more about the average rent in Vancouver.

Tacoma

• Population: 219,346
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,661.67
• Rent Change in the Past Year: 18.21%
• Median Household Income: $62,358
• Walk Score: 54
• Bike Score: 48

Located just 45 minutes outside of Seattle, Tacoma has become a booming city for young artists, creatives, musicians, writers, and entrepreneurs. With a shockingly affordable cost of living and a much less congested environment, it’s no wonder so many have flocked to this city with beautiful backdrops of Mount Rainier.

Tacoma does not disappoint when it comes to entertainment, offering everything from top-notch restaurants to art galleries to museums. The city got its nickname as the Wired City after 1998 when Tacoma Power installed a high-speed fiber-optic network throughout the community.

Anyone moving to Tacoma on a tight budget can find countless free forms of entertainment. A popular option amongst locals is the Tacoma Museum District which hosts a Third Thursday Art Walk each month. During this event, you can gain free admission to the Tacoma Art Museum, the Museum of Glass, the Foss Waterway Seaport Museum, and the Washington State History Museum.

Tacoma is equally fun and exciting as its neighboring cities, Portland and Seattle, but with much better pricing. And while you might be problematic about the climate, you don’t have to worry because Tacoma sees an average of fewer than 40 inches of rainfall per year.

Learn more about the average rent in Tacoma.

Lynnwood

• Population: 38,568
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,675.67
• Rent Change in the Past Year: 16.10%
• Median Household Income: $63,743
• Walk Score: 54
• Bike Score: 49

Lynnwood is a part of the Seattle metropolitan area within Snohomish County, Washington, commonly known as a commuter town for Bellevue, Everett, and Seattle. The town was incorporated in 1959 but has since grown into a suburban hub. Plus, the I-5 and I-405 projects now connect this smaller town to the larger surrounding cities.

Although a relatively smaller city, Lynnwood is known for having one of the highest concentrations of retailers in the area, attributed to the famous Alderwood Mall. Other forms of entertainment include the Lynnwood Recreation Center, the Lynnwood Public Library, and the Lynnwood Ice Center.

If you’re looking to get outdoors and enjoy some Pacific Northwest beauty, you can check out Scriber Lake Park, Heritage Park, or Meadowdale Neighborhood Park.

The economy of Lynnwood is primarily backed by the services sector, which makes up 45% of the workforce. Next is retail at 28% and education at 8%. Overall, only 7% of Lynnwood workers live in the city.

Learn more about the average rent in Lynnwood.

Auburn

• Population: 87,256
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,733
• Average Rent Change in the Past Year: 15.74%
• Median Household Income: $72,822
• Walk Score: 33
• Transit Score: 25
• Bike Score: 41

Settlers arrived in Auburn, WA, in the 1860s and originally named the region “Slaughter” after an officer who was killed during a conflict with Native Americans. The town was eventually incorporated in 1891 and was named after Auburn, New York, which shared the same reliance on hops farming.

Once a dam was built to address flooding from local rivers and the Northern Pacific Railroad laid down a rail line. Japanese immigrants came to the area to farm but lost their land when put into internment camps during World War II. Over time, farmland disappeared, making room for the Boeing Co plant and other industrial needs.

Compared to the greater Seattle area, Auburn offers affordable rents. Dubbed A-Town, the local community is diverse. College students, young professionals, and families move into Auburn for its proximity to Seattle and Tacoma, good schools, and available amenities.

The unemployment rate in Auburn is slightly higher than the U.S. average, but recent job growth is positive. Major industries in Auburn include manufacturing, IT, regional carriers, and aerospace. College students attend the local Green River College or nearby options like the University of Puget Sound, Satel University, and Seattle Pacific University.

Auburn takes advantage of the Pacific Northwest's Beauty with stops like the Soos Creek Botanical Garden with scenic bridges. Flaming Geyser State Park takes hikers through areas along the Green River. Emerald Downs features horse racing and annual Kentucky Derby parties for those who like competition.

Learn more about the average rent in Auburn.

Everett

• Population: 110,629
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,741.33
• Rent Change in the Past Year: 17.71%
• Median Household Income: $60,759
• Walk Score: 49
• Transit Score: 39
• Bike Score: 55

Another popular and relatively affordable city located in Snohomish County, Washington, is Everett. Everett is an excellent location for both young professionals and families with a perfect blend of urban and suburban. Most residents within the city rent, rather than own, their homes. Everett is a regional center offering nearby recreation, thriving arts, and culture, all with an attractive setting.

Residents and tourists can check out the Flying Heritage and Combat Armor Museum, the Imagine Children’s Museum, or the Schack Art Center for indoor fun. If you’d rather stay outdoors, you can go to Howarth Park, Legion Park, or Jetty Island.

The city is split into two regions: North Everett and South Everett. North Everett is a better location for those looking for the suburban lifestyle, with rich history, beautiful scenic views, and great walkability. Alternatively, South Everett is more sprawling and low-income. Some of the more popular neighborhoods in Everett are Bayside, Boulevard Bluffs, Harborview-Seahurst-Glenhaven, and Port Gardner.

Learn more about average rent in Everett.

Lacey

• Population: 53,526
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,750.67
• Average Rent Change in the Past Year: 16.22%
• Median Household Income: $67,687
• Walk Score: 29
• Transit Score: 32
• Bike Score: 51

Lacey wasn't incorporated until 1966, but its American settlement dates back to the 1840s. As the area grew, its thriving farming and logging communities built a hotel, train station, post office, store, and horse racing facility.

Employers around Lacey include public school education, healthcare, state government, and military. The city is also about 30-minutes to Tacoma and an hour to Seattle for additional career opportunities. St. Martin's private liberal arts university is also located in Lacey.

Lacey offers an affordable cost of living compared to iother Northwest cities. In addition, it's renowned for its natural environment, with about 20% of the city designated for parks and open space. Lacey is laid-back with a focus on community and the outdoors. Locals explore the waterfront, enjoy the nearby mountains, or head to town to take advantage of amenities. Schools are well-regarded, and the community and playgrounds and greenspace are plentiful.

Lacey is short on nightlife but offers cozy spots for wine tastings and imbibing, including the Stottle Winery, Madsen Family Cellars, and La Vida Wine Bar. Locals gather at William Ives Trail or head to nearby Lake Lois Habitat Reserve and Four Cedars Trail at Tolmie State Park Park for an afternoon of adventure.

Learn more about the average rent in Lacey.

Federal Way

• Population: 101,030
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,848.67
• Rent Change in the Past Year: 16.78%
• Median Household Income: $67,347
• Walk Score: 38
• Transit Score: 31
• Bike Score: 37

Within the Seattle metropolitan area, located in King County, Washington, is Federal Way. Despite its population, which is just shy of 100,000, Federal Way is the fifth-largest city in Washington.

The city’s name comes from the Federal Highway U.S. 99, now named State Route 99 or the Pacific Highway South, which connected Everett, Seattle, and Tacoma. While the city was once a logging settlement, it was eventually incorporated in the early 1990s.

Federal Way has several major cities and state parks, including Celebration Park, Steel Lake Park, Dash Point State Park, and Dumas Bay Center Park. In addition, the BPA Trail is a 3.6-mile-long trail within the city that connects important city areas, including the wetlands of Panther Lake Park, Madrona Park, the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center, and The Commons at Federal Way Mall.

Learn more about average rent in Federal Way.

Cheapest Cities in Washington Data

Before you move to Washington, learn more about the average rents and year-over-growth in its cheapest cities.

Final Thoughts - Where Should I Move to in Washington?

Regardless of what you are looking for in Washington, whether lakes and rivers in Vancouver or the hustle of a metropolitan area like Tacoma, there’s something there for everyone. Thankfully, some of the best places to live in Washington are also the cheapest.

If you're concerned about the cost of living in Washington, learn about the true cost of renting. You can also consider subletting, living in a short-term rental, or finding a move-in special!

So, if you are interested in moving to Washington, now might be a good time to start your research. First, find out more information about the cost of living in Washington. Next, register with Apartment List today and start checking out the thousands of available apartments to rent in Washington!