Last updated: October 2026
The cost of living in Spokane is moderate for the Pacific Northwest, and Washington has no state income tax on wages. The Census Bureau reports a median gross rent of $1,215, a median home value of $363,500 and a median household income of $70,064. A single renter should plan on roughly $2,400 to $3,200 a month for rent, bills, food and transport before savings.
Cost of Living in Spokane at a Glance
Rent and home values come from the Census Bureau. The other lines are rough planning estimates for one adult renting.
| Expense | Typical monthly range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | $1,100 – $1,500 | Census median gross rent is $1,215 for all rentals |
| Utilities and internet | $170 – $330 | Winter heating is the main swing |
| Groceries | $330 – $480 | Estimate for one adult cooking at home |
| Transport | $300 – $700 | Most residents drive |
| Health care | $150 – $400 | Depends on employer coverage |
| Total before savings | about $2,400 – $3,200 | Estimate, not an official figure |
Rent and Affordability
Spokane rents are well below Seattle and Portland but have risen along with demand from people leaving bigger West Coast cities. The $1,215 Census figure covers every type of rental, so a modern one-bedroom may cost more than the median and an older unit less. Check live listings.
The median owner-occupied home value is $363,500 (Census, 2020-2024). To compare nearby markets, see our guides to Boise and Reno.
Utilities and Internet
Spokane has cold winters and warm, dry summers. Heating is the main seasonal cost, and the type of heat (electric, gas or heat pump) makes a big difference. Ask a landlord which utilities are included and request recent bills.
Groceries and Dining Out
Grocery prices are close to national norms. Discount grocers and warehouse clubs lower the cost of staples, and local farmers markets add seasonal produce. Dining out ranges from cheap local spots to pricier downtown restaurants, so your habits matter more than the city average.
Transit vs Driving
Most households own a car, and snow means winter tires and extra maintenance. Spokane Transit Authority runs buses across the city, and living near a major route can reduce car costs. Check current fares at spokanetransit.com.
Health Care
Spokane is a regional medical center for eastern Washington, which helps access. Your cost depends mostly on your plan, so compare premiums, deductibles and networks during open enrollment.
Income and Taxes
Spokane’s median household income is $70,064, with 2.29 people per household (Census, 2020-2024). Keeping housing near 30% of gross income, a $1,100 to $1,500 rent suggests roughly $44,000 to $60,000 a year for a single renter. That is a rule of thumb, not an official threshold.
Washington does not tax wage income at the state level, but sales tax applies. Confirm current rates with the Washington Department of Revenue. The MIT Living Wage Calculator shows estimates for Spokane County households.
Tips to Save in Spokane
- Choose a unit with efficient heating and ask for last winter’s bills.
- Live near a bus route to reduce car costs.
- Look at neighborhoods outside downtown for lower rent.
- Shop car insurance every year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Spokane per month?
A single renter should plan on roughly $2,400 to $3,200 a month for rent, utilities, groceries, transport and health care, before savings. This is an estimate; the Census Bureau lists a median gross rent of $1,215.
Is Spokane cheaper than Seattle?
Yes. Spokane rents and home prices are well below Seattle. The Census Bureau lists a median home value of $363,500 for Spokane (2020-2024).
What salary do you need to live in Spokane?
Keeping housing near 30% of gross income, a $1,100 to $1,500 rent suggests roughly $44,000 to $60,000 a year for a single renter. The city median household income is $70,064 (Census, 2020-2024).
Does Washington have a state income tax?
Washington does not tax wage income at the state level, though sales tax and other taxes apply. Confirm current rules with the Washington Department of Revenue.
