9 Cheapest Places to Live in Washington State

Ah, Washington—a state with gorgeous nature, a temperate climate, and flourishing tech hubs. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that prices in Seattle are high. Luckily, there are other amazing cities full of beauty, culture, and cheap rent. So if you’re dreaming of the Pacific Northwest but you have to keep rent payments low, you still have plenty of options. 

We compiled a list of 9 of the cheapest places to live in Washington, where you can enjoy the best of the state and stay on budget (and still have easy access to Seattle, if you want it).

1. Auburn
2. Bothell
3. Connell
4. Lakewood
5. Olympia
6. Redmond
7. Quincy
8. Richland
9. Tacoma

Washington State affordability at a glance

The affordability of Washington State can vary significantly depending on the region, with some areas being relatively expensive and others more affordable. Here’s a brief overview of affordability in the state:

• Job opportunities: Washington is home to major technology companies, including Amazon and Microsoft, which offer high-paying job opportunities. This can make it more affordable for those with well-paying jobs.
• No State Income Tax: Washington does not have a state income tax, which can provide some relief to residents in terms of their overall tax burden.
• Natural beauty: Many areas in Washington offer access to stunning natural landscapes, outdoor activities, and recreational opportunities, often at little to no cost.
• Education: Washington has several well-regarded public universities and colleges, including the University of Washington, which can provide quality education at a relatively affordable price for in-state students.
• High cost of living: The cost of living in Washington can be high, especially in major metropolitan areas like Seattle. Housing costs, in particular, have been on the rise, making it challenging for many to find affordable housing.
• Sales Tax: Washington has a relatively high sales tax rate, which can increase the cost of everyday goods and services.

The most affordable places to live in Washington State

1. Auburn

1-bedroom rent average: $1,541

2-bedroom rent average: $1,849

Auburn should not be overlooked as one of the best towns in Washington. Head slightly south of Seattle and east of Tacoma to get to this city, which is a gateway to the two big metropolitan areas in Washington. Attractions here range from performing arts to thoroughbred horse racing to golf, so there’s something for everyone in Auburn.

Auburn is also a transportation hub, thanks to its location close to Seattle and Tacoma. The city features major roadways as well as the Transit Center, which is a station that connects residents to the Sounder train, light rail, and bus service to the wider Puget Sound region.

2. Bothell

1-bedroom rent average: $2,045

2-bedroom rent average: $2,592

If you’re looking for easy access to Seattle but don’t want to pay Seattle’s expensive cost of living, you’ll find an affordable alternative in Bothell. You’ll find plenty of cultural events here, too, like the 1880s Pioneer Cemetery and the Freedom Festival, an event for July 4th. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities for walks in area parks in this attractive location. With all these entertainment options, it’s kind of hard to believe it’s one of the cheapest places to live in Washington state.

3. Connell

1-bedroom rent average: $1,200

2-bedroom rent average: $1,900

Connell consistently ranks as one of the most affordable places to live in Washington. Connell offers the best of small-town American life, making it easy to get to know your neighbors within a progressive, vibrant community. It’s just off U.S. Highway 395 in the southeastern part of the state, making it easy to get around.

4. Lakewood

1-bedroom rent average: $1,425

2-bedroom rent average: $1,950

Lakewood offers a peaceful oasis for nature lovers who are looking for the perfect Washington home base. This area, a suburb of Tacoma, offers a serene setting in the midst of seemingly endless open space. You’ll find a total of 14 parks in this community boasting plenty of lakes and the ideal way to indulge in the fresh air. Mt. Rainer National Park is just over an hour from Lakewood, so you’ll have an easy and fun day trip well within reach as well.

5. Olympia

1-bedroom rent average: $1,525

2-bedroom rent average: 1,929

Olympia is Washington’s state capital, but it still ranks on lists of the least expensive places to live in Washington. Seafood aficionados flock here for the restaurants dotting the waterfront, and you’ll have fishing and boating opportunities in Puget Sound from your place in Olympia. Olympia boasts a growing arts community. Mt. Rainer is just over an hour away by car, and you can even see it on clear days from the capital city.

6. Redmond

1-bedroom rent average: $2,243

2-bedroom rent average: $2,930

Though you may know Redmond as a high-tech city — it’s home to Microsoft’s headquarters, after all — there’s much more to Redmond than just tech. Redmond also features some of the best bicycle trails and beer out there, with various breweries serving up craft beer to locals in Redmond. The city also boasts a huge network of bike lanes and trails, so you can also save big on car insurance, gas, and other automobile costs by commuting as many of the residents do.

7. Quincy

1-bedroom rent average: $1,125

2-bedroom rent average: $1,400

If central Washington is calling, you’ll want to put Quincy on your list of places to check out. Renters here can take advantage of low rent prices along with a variety of free activities like hiking around Ancient Lakes.

8. Richland

1-bedroom rent average: $1,425

2-bedroom rent average: $1,508

This city sits in the southeastern part of Washington, and, like plenty of Washington locations, Richland offers an abundance of ways to indulge in nature. Whether you’re in the area because it’s a tech hub or you’re looking for easy access to biking and hiking (like many Washington locations, Richland boasts an extensive trail network), the city offers another intriguing city if you’re looking for an affordable place to live in Washington.

One of the highlights of Richland is the fact that it’s found at the confluence of three rivers, sitting where the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima rivers meet. You’ll discover so many opportunities for nature and water recreation here. You’ll find over 200 wineries within an hour’s drive, too, as Richland also sits right at the heart of Washington wine country.

9. Tacoma

1-bedroom rent average: $1,425

2-bedroom rent average: $1,799

Though Seattle is notoriously pricey, you can access more affordable housing in nearby Tacoma. The city is about an hour from Seattle, not to mention just 20 minutes from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. That makes Tacoma a great place to live if you’re looking to travel — or just want to have easy access to downtown Seattle, without Seattle prices.

You’ll find Tacoma right on the banks of the Puget Sound, so you’ll have breathtaking views of Mt. Rainer, gorgeous beaches, and waterfront districts complete with bustling bars and restaurants. This vibrant community is a dream for creatives or anyone looking for an enriching atmosphere with affordable rent.

It’s easy to find your dream place when you know where to look, and there’s something for everyone on this list of the cheapest places to live in Washington state.

Frequently asked questions about Washington State affordability

Whether you’re searching for a town to enjoy fresh air and nature or you want to complement that with easy access to bigger Washington cities, you’ll find plenty of options for affordable places to live on Zumper.