10 Cheapest Places to Live in Washington State

When searching for the cheapest places to live in Washington State, affordability can mean different things—whether it’s a lower cost of living or more affordable home prices. 

Washington is generally known for its high living costs, with the state average being 17% higher than the national average. However, there are still cities and towns in Washington that can be considered cost-effective.

In this article, Kind House Buyers explores the ten cheapest places to live in Washington. These locations provide affordability in various ways, making them great choices for those looking to live comfortably without spending over the budget. We have you covered if you’re looking for a cash buyer in Washington to buy your home. Let’s jump in!

1. Yakima

Yakima tops the list as the cheapest place to live in Washington state thanks to its low-cost housing and rent prices. With a median home price of $344,937 and an average rent of $750 for a one-bedroom apartment, Yakima is the place to beat.

In addition, the cost of living in Yakima is 15% lower than the average in Washington. This makes it one of the most affordable places to call home. 

In terms of the environment, the city enjoys nearly 300 days of sunshine each year, making it an ideal place for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or visiting the scenic Yakima Greenway. 

Yakima’s economy is strong, with agriculture, healthcare, and education as key industries. The city is also known for its vineyards and orchards, which add to its charm. Older folks also choose Yakima as one of the top places to retire.

Whether you’re looking to sell a home in Yakima or rent, Yakima stands out as one of the best places to live in Washington if you want to stretch your dollar.

2. Moses Lake 

Moses Lake is another great option for those seeking affordable living in Washington. This city, located in east-central Washington, offers a median home price of $366,365. Meanwhile, one-bedroom apartments in this city have an average rent price of $985.

With a cost of living that is 16% lower than the state average, Moses Lake provides a perfect blend of budget-friendly housing and a beautiful natural setting.

The city is known for its over 100 miles of shoreline, making it a go-to for those who love boating, fishing, and swimming. Additionally, the city’s economy is diverse, with key industries including agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. 

For anyone looking for a peaceful, affordable place to live with plenty of outdoor activities and a diverse economy, Moses Lake is a top contender.

3. Kelso

For those looking to settle near the Washington-Oregon border, Kelso is one of the cheapest options. This charming small town offers a median home price of $389,547 and average rentals of around $1,545 for a one-bedroom apartment. 

The cost of living in Kelso is roughly 15.9% lower than the state average, making it even cheaper than Yakima. 

Kelso is nestled along the Cowlitz River and is praised for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Moreover, the town is rich in history and offers attractions like the Cowlitz County Historical Museum and Tam O’Shanter Park. 

The city’s economy is supported by industries like agriculture and manufacturing, which provide residents with job stability in a peaceful, rural setting.

4. Spokane 

Spokane is another cheap city in Washington that offers a mix of urban amenities and affordable living. It has a median home price of $405,072 and an average rent of $999 for a one-bedroom apartment.

If you want to experience city life minus the high costs of larger metropolitan areas, Spokane is an excellent choice. The home price-to-income ratio in Spokane is a low 3.07, making it one of the most cost-effective cities to buy a home.

Located in Eastern Washington, Spokane is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse dining options, and beautiful parks. 

The city’s economy is bolstered by industries such as education, healthcare, and retail, with Gonzaga University being one of the major employers. 

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you will appreciate Spokane’s numerous recreational opportunities, including the popular Riverfront Park and the surrounding lakes and trails.

5. Pasco

Pasco is yet another affordable place to live in Washington, striking a balance between cost and quality of life. The median home price in Pasco is $415,680, and the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,125. 

Interestingly, as of July 2024, about 23% of homes in Pasco are selling for more than the asking price, highlighting the strong demand. Moreover, homes typically go under contract in just 18 days. 

Pasco is part of the Tri-Cities area, known for its sunny weather and growing economy. The city offers a range of outdoor activities, including the 15-mile Sacagawea Heritage Trail along the Columbia River. 

Pasco also offers a diverse economy, with major industries like agriculture, retail, and manufacturing providing stable job opportunities. 

If a cost of living estimated to be 13% lower than the state average appeals to you, Pasco is a top choice.

6. Walla Walla

Walla Walla, known for its charming atmosphere and vibrant community, is another cheap place to live in Washington. The median home price around the area is $418,750, and the average rent price for a one-bedroom apartment is $910.

Meanwhile, the cost of living in Walla Walla is 14% lower than the state average and 2% lower than the national average.

Walla Walla offers affordable living in a picturesque setting. This city is famous for its wineries and rolling vineyards, which attract wine enthusiasts from all over. 

Walla Walla’s historic downtown is filled with unique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, giving residents plenty to do without breaking the bank. 

The local economy is supported by agriculture, education, and healthcare, providing plenty of stable jobs to its residents. 

7. Cheney

Another excellent choice for those seeking affordable living in Washington is Cheney. With a median home price of $434,408 and an average rent of $825 for a one-bedroom apartment, Cheney is a place to find budget-friendly options. 

The cost of living in Cheney is 12% lower than the state average, a reasonable asking price for this charming, small-town setting.

Located near the Idaho border, Cheney is known for its sense of community and connection to Eastern Washington University. The university is a major employer in the area, providing job opportunities and contributing to the town’s atmosphere. 

Cheney also offers a range of outdoor activities, with local parks and scenic trails that are ideal for hiking and biking. 

If you’re looking for a quiet and affordable place to live with the charm of a small town and easy access to education and nature, Cheney could be the perfect fit.

8. Pullman

Pullman is another option for those looking for budget-friendly living in Washington State. As one of the most affordable cities in the state, Pullman offers a median home price of $487,332 and an average rent of $775 for a one-bedroom apartment. 

The cost of living in Pullman is also significantly lower than the state average, making it an attractive option for students, young professionals, and families alike.

Home to Washington State University, Pullman has a vibrant, youthful energy and provides plenty of amenities, such as local shops, restaurants, and cultural events. 

In addition to its affordability, Pullman is known for its beautiful landscapes, with rolling hills and plenty of outdoor spaces for hiking, biking, and exploring. 

However, when considering buying a home in the area, it’s important to be aware that some of the more affordable homes might have issues like old house smells or mold, which could require extra care and attention.

9. Connell

Nearing the end of our list is Connell, another affordable place to live in Washington that boasts both safety and value. The median home price in Connell is $505,583, and the average rent is $1,310 for a one-bedroom apartment. 

The cost of living in Connell is impressively 21% lower than the state average and 10% lower than the national average, making it one of the most economical places to live based on living expenses alone.

Connell also has a favorable home price-to-income ratio of 2.3, meaning homes are relatively affordable compared to the average household income in the area.

This small, welcoming community is known for its low crime rate, which is roughly 55% below the national average. 

When it comes to the community, Connell offers a variety of local parks, well-regarded schools, and events that foster a strong sense of togetherness.

10. Auburn

Rounding off our list of the cheapest cities to live in Washington is Auburn, a city conveniently located between Seattle and Tacoma. 

With a median home price of $609,318 and an average rent of $1,480 for a one-bedroom apartment, Auburn strikes an appealing balance between affordability and suburban comfort. 

Although it’s not the most affordable place to live, with costs only about 2% lower than the state average, Auburn’s proximity to major metropolitan areas makes it a worthwhile option for commuters.

Nicknamed the “Gateway to Mt. Rainier,” Auburn offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking. The city also boasts a variety of local amenities, such as parks, golf courses, and shopping centers.

If these affordable locations have you thinking about a move and you need to sell your current home, be sure to read our guide on how to sell your house while relocating.

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