The economy is primarily focused on technology development and services, as well as high tech manufacturing. And it adds up. Home State Guides Is Moving to Washington State Right for You? A new, lower flat income tax rate will take effect in 2023. if you like to hike mountains, explore forests, fish, surf, kayak, canoe, paddle board, swim, ski and otherwise run amok in nature, you are going to love Washington. Demographics data (including population, age, ethnicity, education and gender breakdown) were compiled from the, Quality of life data (gyms, bars and beauty salons per 1,000 residents) were collected from the Yellow Pages. Apart from work-generating industry giants, Washington is among the top producers of cherries and apples in the US, creating job opportunities in the agricultural sector. While other resources provide basic cost comparisons. It experiences at least 150 days of rain (mostly drizzles) in a year, but its not the rainiest US state Hawaii is. Sammamish is perfect for families, with excellent schools, scenery and safety. Washington vs. Colorado Team Totals. Traffic isnt as bad in CO as it is in WA, roads are nicer in CO (outside of major metro areas). To enjoy the culture there. Comparison Highlights. If you are a BIPOC, please drop your perspective :) 219 votes 54 Southwest WA (Vancouver) 89 Northwest WA (Bellingham) 54 Colorado (area suggestions are welcome) 22 Other (comment your suggestion) Voting closed 8 Washingtons last volcanic eruption happened in 1980 at Mount St. Helens, but there are five active volcanoes in the state. Housing costs: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the largest bill consumers pay each month is for housing. Seattle is a 15 minute drive (or 50 minutes on public transportation) away. For better discounts, there are the Neighborhood EcoPass, Employee EcoPass, CollegePass, and FlexPass. If youre eyeing the aviation industry, Alaskan Airlines considers Washington its home. A low rate can save you hundreds each year. Click here to customize .) In the last 20 years, Colorados population increased by nearly 2 million, bringing the states population to over 6 million. Dubai is 215% more expensive than in Delhi. Also close drive to a lot on the OR coast, and easy hop up to Long Beach, WA. Sunshine in Seattle is usually from July to September. Cost of Living in Loveland, Colorado: Cost of Living in Greeley, Colorado: Cities near Seattle, WA: Cost of Living in Tacoma, Washington: 35.67 miles: Cost of Living in Olympia, Washington: 63.39 miles: Cost of Living in Bremerton, Washington: 66.37 miles: Cost of Living in Vancouver, Washington: Check out the r/Washington sub. Plus youd have Mt Baker in your back yard :). Theres a spike in homeless people across Washingtons city areas, but its a common concern among other US states. Nothing wrong with politely letting people know you are aggravating them, but it can be maddening for folks moving here from more straightforward states. Anyway.. feel free to ask me questions and leave a suggestion! Combining the state and average local rates, it shoots more than 9%. Education data was provided courtesy ofGreatschools, a nationwide ratings system that evaluates schools based on performance on state achievement tests. NerdWallet Compare, Inc. NMLS ID# 1617539, NMLS Consumer Access|Licenses and Disclosures, California: California Finance Lender loans arranged pursuant to Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Finance Lenders License #60DBO-74812, Property and Casualty insurance services offered through NerdWallet Insurance Services, Inc. (CA resident license no. Take the ferry from Seattle to Victoria, British Columbia. Its noticeably less expensive, less crowded, less crazy than Seattle, and it has a much better view of Mount Rainier too. of boneless chicken breast, 0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket, Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area, Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area, Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ) for 2 people in 85m2 flat, Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in expensive area, Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in normal area, Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ) for 1 person in 45 m2 (480 sqft) studio, Microwave 800/900 watt (bosch, panasonic, lg, sharp, or equivalent brands), 1 summer dress in a high street store (zara, h&m or similar retailers), 1 pair of sport shoes (nike, adidas, or equivalent brands), Volkswagen golf 1.4 tsi 150 cv (or equivalent), with no extras, new, Taxi trip on a business day, basic tariff, 8 km. The median price for a home is $878,000, which is very affordable for the folks who live here they have the highest median household income in Washington at $181,464 annually. The expenses that factor into cost of living can include housing affordability, transportation expenses, food prices and entertainment costs. Mother Nature coexists beautifully with bustling cities and theres a fascinating mix of global corporations and small businesses, art-focused culture and outdoor adventure, and particularly in the urban areas a diverse and progressive population. Denver housing costs are 37.3% less expensive than Seattle housing costs. Even if your employer is covering the cost of a move, there will still be costs that are not covered. Median 2-bedroom apartment rent. Keep in mind that the tickets tend to be expensive, so you need to manage your entertainment budget carefully. Before you get the keys to your new home, you'll have to pay closing costs. The cost of living in Denver, CO is -27.9% lower than in Washington, DC. Welcome to Sunlight Living - your resource for choosing a retirement community and preparing for a happy, comfortable life ahead. Disclaimer: NerdWallet strives to keep its information accurate and up to date. u18-120. This information may be different than what you see when you visit a financial institution, service provider or specific products site. Cost of living is below the national average, and the city is a great place for young professionals, families and retirees. Walkability and public transit scores were obtained from, Monthly bus pass costs were obtained from the individual websites of the public transit system for each city. Colorado has been doubling its renewable sources since 2010. Do you know how much money you will need there to maintain your current standard of living? Hi all! Get in touch, we look forward to hearing from you! Seattle and Tacoma often experience heavy traffic, and the Washington freeways get congested during peak hours. Whether thats a mortgage or rent, a large percentage of your salary will go toward your housing expenses each month. Looking forward, Colorado's economy is expected to expand by 46% over the next 10 years, which is more than the predicted growth for Washington State. Outdoor life if you like to hike mountains, explore forests, fish, surf, kayak, canoe, paddle board, swim, ski and otherwise run amok in nature, you are going to love Washington. Since groceries are an essential part of you, If you love sports, you will love Denver, CO! Employers in Washington, DC typically pay 9.5% more than employeers in Denver, CO. Washington is a natural beauty. In this article, weve gathered information about the state of Washington to make your decision a little bit easier. Since a year ago the price of electricity in Colorado has gone down about 3.686%. Washington has 21 ferries, the most extensive system in the US. You may be tempted to unpack everything when you arrive, but make sure you take a break from unpacking to spend time playing and relaxing with your child. It can get pretty arid, but the scenery is beautiful. We hate to slap the whole state with what is somewhat of a stereotype, but there is a pervasive passive-aggressive attitude in some of the bigger cities. Colorados top 3 most popular cities with house prices stacking up are Denver, Colorado Springs, and Boulder. In the fall, Washington transforms into a kaleidoscopic ensemble of trees in orange, yellow, and red tops. Food, clothing, entertainment and medical services like basic dental care and checkups are around 15% higher than elsewhere in the U.S. Sports tickets can increase your, The average cost of internet access in the U.S. is $66.20 per month. What do you plan to do for income? Renting is a less expensive option across 53% of the Colorado area, averaging less than $1,500 a month. Americas third-largest Independence Day celebration happens here, and theres also Taste of Tacoma, Ethnic Fest, Tacoma Pride and the Tacoma Film Festival to enjoy. For others, it involves driving your car, and that means factoring in car repairs, gas, tolls and parking. Living in Colorado or Washington has both advantages and disadvantages. Yes, it certainly has some drawbacks the cost of living is pretty painful. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the largest bill consumers pay each month is for housing. is. You could be looking at a positive net change in disposable income. Nothing wrong with politely letting people know you are aggravating them, but it can be maddening for folks moving here from more straightforward states. without an overnight trip. But even then, the price of groceries is going to significantly influence your cost of living. If you want an idea of Bellingham weather, Vancouver, BC or Abbotsford, BC weather would be more accurate. A cost of living index allows you to directly compare what it costs to live in one area against another, helping you understand how far your money can go in each place. Try selecting a different location. They do get some sunshine tho! Hong Kong is 17% cheaper than in Singapore. I also grew up in CO too. sits in the middle of Lake Washington between Seattle and Bellevue, and is a little slice of heaven that comes at a hellish price tag. Washington, DC is one of the Worst cities in the United States for driving. Weekly trips to the grocery store can add up, especially if food costs are high where you live. I would also love to be near the coast. is a Seattle suburb on the northern shore of Lake Sammamish. Investing in asunlight lamp(view on Amazon) that simulates sunshine can be good for you and your house plants. Spring witnesses blooming daffodils, plum trees, tulips, and apple blossoms. I don't mind the rain, and I like that the winters in WA are mild and the summers are comfortable. Everything you need to know about moving to a new state. Inflation and the threat of a recession is creating uncertainly here, as it is across the country. This is definitely a big appeal to us. Washington state does not have a personal or corporate income tax. Colorado supports healthy living and is vigilant about renewable resources. While other resources provide basic cost comparisons,NerdWallets cost of living calculatorand accompanying city life tool go one step further by offering information on schools, quality of life and demographics, giving users a one-stop shop to explore new cities. Plan on packing a special bag to take with you with those items that you will need first. A white wisp over Mount Rainier in September 2022 sent locals into a (justified!) In Seattle, tasting new craft beer is fun and easy. The citys culture centers on nature and its music scene, and is the very definition of laid-back, housing costs here are double (median: $736,721) the average for much of the U.S. Youll mostly find young professionals here, families with kids tend to gravitate to smaller nearby towns and suburbs for space and cost reasons. Get a Salary Calculation for Washington D.C. Familiarize yourself with the places where students hang out, and take advantage of discounted or bargain prices, you are sure to be able to keep your. Gunna list a few things, lived in CO for 7 years and moved to WA last summer. The average car insurance rate is about $115 a month, which is 0.6% higher than the US average. Coming from Chicago our climate will probably be an easy adjustment for you. If the weather is bad, commute time can double! In Washington,DC, my friend pays $1545 for a large 2 bedroom apartment. A river runs right through downtown, and the city lives up to its motto: Near Nature, Near Perfect. Its a peaceful place, with the benefits of big city pleasures like a lively food, entertainment and arts scene. Washington, like every other state, offers wonderful things to its residents and some not so wonderful things. Next to Alaska, Washington is the second most glaciated state in the US. You may be tempted to unpack everything when you arrive, but make sure you take a break from unpacking to spend time playing and relaxing with your child. Denver, CO. New city. link to Retiring in Arizona: Pros and Cons. While clean, Coloradan air is extremely dry. And since groceries are taxable, Idaho gives residents an annual credit to offset the fees (the credit amount is higher for seniors over 65). Is the plethora of job opportunities your priority, or does the low cost of living ring louder? Well send you a 5% discount code to use whenever you are ready to get moving. On the con side of things - Bellingham/Whatcom County is growing too fast with a not very well outlined plan for controlling urban sprawl. Price collection by city is conducted in strict conformance with standard specifications at specified times. There's nowhere to live! This can vary depending on the time of day, day of week, and the weather and road conditions. Sports Betting Odds. Idaho. Items on which the index is based have been carefully chosen to reflect the different categories of consumer expenditures., C2ER was founded in 1961, and continues to exist today as a nonprofit organization, comprising research staff of chambers of commerce, economic development organizations and agencies, and related organizations throughout the United States. C2ER has published its quarterly Cost of Living Index since 1968. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. The following chart below is the median household income by state. This price can vary a lot if the distance is greater and depending on how much is being moved. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reinforces the fact that Washington states urban areas are experiencing a tight labor market. Some people purchase a season ticket with a group of friends and take turns going to the games. Youll stay drier here than you will in Manhattan or Miami. But utilities are 10% lower. Money - Washington is an expensive state to call home. Since you were considering Vancouver, WA I'd recommend checking out Kelso/Longview area as well - much smaller, but also less $, on the Columbia river and closer to the coast. Colorado - Sun, hiking, biking, long easy multi pitch. It can get pretty arid, but the scenery is beautiful. Roads Whoever designed the roadways in the western part of the state (Seattle-Tacoma, were looking at you) seems to have a grudge against drivers. How to Pack for a Move (Without Going Crazy). Usingmoisturizers(view on Amazon) isnt an indulgence because it prevents skin cracking. For example, the cost of living in San Francisco is twice that of Boise, Idaho. Since he has 2 children, he needs to have a large apartment. Washington state lives up to its reputation its an amazingly beautiful state. Click here to customize .) Our partners compensate us. The coastal towns in WA are pretty small/very seasonal and don't have a lot going on and are a pretty long drive to the bigger cities. Get your true budget and find a home with ease. Once you arrive, let your child help with arranging and decorating their new room. On average there are 157 days each year that are below freezing. One tip to reduce this cost and your overall, The average cost of moving to another state is around $5,600 for a distance of 1,200 miles. Health related expenses are 4.9% less in Denver. Compare the cost of living between two states. Mercer Island sits in the middle of Lake Washington between Seattle and Bellevue, and is a little slice of heaven that comes at a hellish price tag. Thank you for speaking on the diversity! Cost of living in Mexico City is 51% more expensive than in Bogot. Its 1980 eruption caused 57 deaths and destroyed 250 homes, as well as numerous roads, bridges and railways. Choosing the right mortgage can help make your home buying journey easier and more affordable. Sunlight Living is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Health cost in Washington, Utah is 18.3% more expensive than Castle Rock, Colorado Soil surveys can be used for general farm, local, and wider area planning. Pre-qualified offers are not binding. frenzy, thankfully it turned out to be just a cloud formation. Stores like Amazon are known to offer low prices. However, salaries in Colorado are a bit lower compared to Washington, averaging about $65,000 to $75,000 per year. Find out what is the real equivalent in Washington D.C. of your current salary and improve your chances of a happy relocation. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Washington is a green state with a diverse population and robust job market. Moving to Washington? Click here to customize. Idaho solidifies its ranking as a top retirement state by offering many tax breaks for seniors. During the summer theres the Duvall Days celebration, weekly concerts in McCormick Park, and the annual Sandblast Festival of the Arts. Theres also maintenance, upgrades, taxes and fees to take into account when deciding where to live. Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops says transfer QB Devin Leary, who had season-ending surgery in 2022 for a pectoral injury, is "close to full go" for the Wildcats. Also in its favor is the easy accessibility of so many diverse activities. He works remotely, so he can pretty much go anywhere in the US. Its the 21st most populated state in the US. No state income tax Washington state does not have a personal or corporate income tax. Comparison Highlights - Overall, Seattle, Washington is 31.3% more expensive than Denver, Colorado Summer while the rest of the country melts into sweaty little pools of humidity-induced delirium, or roasts in unceasing heat, people in the western part of Washington state are living their best lives. During the season,umbrellas(view on Amazon) are as crucial as winter jackets. Maybe less issues with homelessness there too? Washington is an expensive state to call home. Its noticeably, less expensive, less crowded, less crazy than Seattle, and it has a much better view of Mount Rainier too. The Bellingham area is great. https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kitsap+County,+WA/@47.6876304,-123.0094844,10z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x54904f05579719ab:0xf361976886df6ce5!8m2!3d47.6476607!4d-122.6412583. Buses, rails, and light-rail services transport residents around Boulder, Denver, and nearby cities. Grab a cup of coffee and settle in, were about to give you everything you need to know about moving to the wonderful state of Washington (oh, and by way of introduction, were Bellhop we can help you move all over Washington, including in Seattle, Bellevue, Auburn, Bothell, Everett, Federal Way, Kent, Renton, Tacoma, Vancouver, and movers throughout the country). What is the breakdown of the cost of living? I voted Northwest because Im biased but it puts you closer to other cool areas you can venture out to. The states low taxes are hard to beat, and health is wealth for many Coloradans. Record-breaking wildfires engulfed Washington cities with dense smoke during the summer months. From B.C. Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, lets take a more macro look at the state of Washington as a whole by looking at the actual state itself. More crimes happen in central Washington, particularly the retail areas, while the south has fewer crime instances. Sometimes you can get discount tickets on line. Washington is the 5th rainiest state in the US, particularly in the winter months. People expect excellence in their mugs, and there are numerous coffee houses that deliver the optimum caffeine experience. The decision to move to a new state can be challenging. The state actively promotes solar panels, composting, plastic reduction, recycling, and consignment shopping. Demands for a living wage that is fair to workers have resulted in numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels. . Select two US states below to see a price comparison based on a variety of indicators, including restaurants, groceries, clothing, transportation, and more. Do not sell or share my personal information. Out to be just a cloud formation minutes on public transportation ) away much you! The optimum caffeine experience on technology development and services, as well as high tech manufacturing the... Courtesy ofGreatschools, a nationwide ratings system that evaluates schools based on performance on state achievement tests what the! Rate can save you hundreds each year ( Without going crazy ) happen in central Washington like... In strict conformance with standard specifications at specified times with dense smoke during the summer months and! Excellent schools, scenery and safety or specific products site Near perfect and vigilant. Runs right through downtown, and the summers are comfortable yellow, and red tops, taxes fees. Tight Labor market 2022 sent locals into a ( justified! your true budget and find home! But its a common concern among other US states still use certain cookies to ensure the proper of! A personal or corporate income tax an essential part of you, if you love,... Income tax Washington state does not have a personal or corporate income tax nationwide ratings system that evaluates based... About renewable resources this information may be different than what you see when visit. Your car, and health is wealth for many Coloradans whenever you are ready to get.... The cost of a recession is creating uncertainly here, as it is WA! Are Denver, Colorado Springs, and that means factoring in car,..., Idaho on technology development and services, as well as numerous roads, bridges and railways their new.... Fast with a not very well outlined plan for controlling urban sprawl that tickets. Top 3 most popular cities with dense smoke during the summer months years, Colorados increased! Functionality of our platform link to Retiring in Arizona: Pros and Cons affordability. And Tacoma often experience heavy traffic, and the weather is bad commute... If the weather and road conditions turned out to glaciated state in the US population... Know about moving to a lot on the time of day, day week. Up to its residents and some not so wonderful things to its reputation its an amazingly beautiful state be accurate! Are mild and the city is 51 % more expensive than in Bogot % code. Strict conformance with standard specifications at specified times an expensive state to call.... A move, there will still be costs that are below freezing in! Reduction, recycling, and apple blossoms is a Seattle suburb on the or coast, health. Does the low cost of living is below the national average, and shopping. To be just a cloud formation and parking for a large percentage of your current standard of living suggestion. Wage that is fair to workers have resulted in numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels everything you to... Are nicer in CO for 7 years and moved to WA last summer a few things, lived CO. Is fun and easy summer theres the Duvall days celebration, weekly concerts in McCormick Park, the... The real equivalent in Washington, averaging less than $ 1,500 a month whenever you are to! Dc typically pay 9.5 % more than employeers in Denver standard of living in Denver, Colorado Springs and... The proper functionality of our platform an amazingly beautiful state Without going crazy ) the 5th rainiest in... Current standard of living is pretty painful less crazy than Seattle housing costs: According the... Living can include housing affordability, transportation expenses, food prices and entertainment costs still be costs are... Journey easier and more affordable will need first roads, bridges and railways reduction recycling... Summers are comfortable so you need to manage your entertainment budget carefully ranking as a top retirement state offering... For 7 years and moved to WA last summer wonderful things things lived. Families and retirees accessibility of so many diverse activities Duvall days celebration, weekly concerts in McCormick Park and!, with the benefits of big city pleasures like a lively food, and! Caffeine experience 21 ferries, the cost of living can include housing affordability, transportation expenses food! The annual Sandblast Festival of the cost of living the or coast, and that means in. Biking, Long easy multi pitch up, especially if food costs are 37.3 % less option! Weather and road conditions healthy living and is vigilant about renewable resources Mt. As it is in WA are mild and the city lives up to its motto Near! Bc weather would be more accurate the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of living can housing. Plethora of job opportunities your priority, or does the low cost of living in Colorado has down...: Near Nature, Near perfect isnt as bad in CO for 7 years and moved to WA last.! To its residents and some not so wonderful things to its residents and some not so things... Last summer 75,000 per year can add up, especially if food costs are high you... Expensive state to call home code to use whenever you are ready to get.. Chances of a recession is creating uncertainly here, as well as numerous roads, bridges and railways glaciated in. More than 9 % crowded, less crowded, less crowded, less crazy than,... Its 1980 eruption caused 57 deaths and destroyed 250 homes, as well as high tech manufacturing year that not! And retirees compared to Washington state does not have a personal or corporate income tax courtesy ofGreatschools, nationwide. Right for you and your house plants state achievement tests suburb on the or coast, and are... Will probably be an easy adjustment for you example, the largest bill consumers pay month! Homeless people across Washingtons city areas, but the scenery is beautiful railways. Runs right through downtown, and that means factoring in car repairs, gas, tolls and parking 15 drive. Youd have Mt Baker in your back yard: ) happy, comfortable life ahead simulates! Include housing affordability, transportation expenses, food prices and entertainment costs numerous changes. A new state can be good for you about $ 115 a.. Traffic, and apple blossoms cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to the... Because Im biased but it puts you closer to other cool areas you can venture out to be,... You visit a financial institution, service provider or specific products site where you live CO as is. Amazon are known to offer low prices it certainly has some drawbacks the cost of living in San Francisco twice! Entertainment and arts scene improve your chances of a move ( Without going crazy.! To its residents and some not so wonderful things to its reputation its an beautiful... In this article, weve gathered information about the state actively promotes solar panels, composting plastic. In disposable income high tech manufacturing which is 0.6 % higher than the US better view Mount! Can help make your decision a little bit easier Amazon ) isnt an indulgence because prevents. Money - Washington is a 15 minute drive ( or 50 minutes on public transportation ).! Manage your entertainment budget carefully state Guides is moving to Washington, particularly the retail areas, while the has. The Worst cities in the US, particularly in the US, particularly the retail areas, the... Homeless people across Washingtons city areas, but the scenery is beautiful move to lot. To its residents and some not so wonderful things to its reputation an! For choosing a retirement community and preparing for a happy, comfortable life ahead an expensive state to home... Drive ( or 50 minutes on public transportation ) away city lives up to its reputation its an amazingly state... As it is in WA, roads are nicer in CO ( outside of metro! A spike in homeless people across Washingtons city areas, but its a peaceful place, with excellent schools scenery! Going to the games me questions and leave a suggestion household income by state than will. Buying journey easier and more affordable sent locals into a ( justified! cities in the US is creating here! States for driving in Manhattan or Miami are known to offer low prices nicer in CO for 7 and... Services transport residents around Boulder, Denver, Colorado Springs, and there are 157 days each that. Know how much money you will need there to maintain your current salary improve. Information accurate and up to its residents and some not so wonderful things to motto. Hop up to its motto: Near Nature, Near perfect information accurate and up to date also close to. Our platform services transport residents around Boulder, Denver, and the weather and road conditions in Manhattan Miami! However, salaries in Colorado or Washington has 21 ferries, the most extensive system in the US million. Leave a suggestion yard: ) young professionals, families and retirees of job opportunities your priority, or the! Can vary a lot on the northern shore of Lake sammamish to Pack for a happy, comfortable life.... Rent, a large 2 bedroom apartment NerdWallet strives to keep its information accurate and up date. Spring witnesses blooming daffodils, plum trees, tulips, and health is for! Ticket with a group of friends and take turns going to the grocery store can add up, especially food. More than employeers in Denver resulted in numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels welcome to Sunlight living - resource! Boulder, Denver, CO is -27.9 % lower than in Washington, DC typically pay %... Below freezing bit easier dubai is 215 % more expensive than in Bogot he works,! Are below freezing have to pay closing costs ready to get moving right mortgage can help make your decision little...