How Much Does it Cost to Live in Seattle, WA?

Want to move to Seattle? Known as one of the best places to live on the West Coast, Seattle offers lush outdoor scenery with modern big-city amenities, but living here may come with a higher price tag. Before moving, ask movers questions and read our guide below to learn how much it costs to live in Seattle!

Cost of living data provided by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER).

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Seattle?

The average cost of living in Seattle is around 44.5% higher than the national average. Despite the high price tag, Seattle is more affordable than other West Coast cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. The largest Seattle living expense is housing, which is 109.3% more expensive than the national average. Take a look at more cost comparisons below!

Cost of Housing in Seattle

One of the highest living costs in Seattle is housing, with both home prices and apartment rent being significantly higher than the national average. Although both of these options are expensive, there are some affordable Seattle neighborhoods to choose from, which make living in the Emerald City a possibility. See our table below for more details!

Cost of Utilities in Seattle (Monthly)

Paying for utilities in Seattle will be comparable in cost to the national average, making energy and phone bills relatively affordable. Read the table below for more detailed costs on Seattle utilities.

Cost of Groceries in Seattle

For most Seattle grocery items, you'll only be paying slightly above the national average, at 10.7% more. Check out the table below for a more detailed price comparison on common grocery items in Seattle!

Cost of Healthcare in Seattle

Seattle residents typically pay more for visits to doctors, dentists, and optometrists. You'll see the largest Seattle healthcare cost savings on prescription medications, which are 9.8% less expensive than the national average. Take a look at the table below for more information on healthcare costs in Seattle.

Cost of Transportation in Seattle

Seattle transportation costs 30.4% more than the national average. The price of a gallon of gas is 36% higher than the national average, and tire balancing is around 15.4% more. Commuters in Seattle choose a variety of ways to get to work, including walking and public transit, so you may be able to save on transportation costs if you get creative!

Cost of Goods & Services in Seattle

While goods and services in Seattle generally cost 22.4%, there are areas where you can save. Your overall lifestyle, where you shop, and your spending habits will be the largest indicators of how much money you spend each month. Check out the table below for more detailed pricing information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How expensive is it to live in Seattle?

The total cost of living in Seattle is 44.5% higher than the national average—making it a fairly expensive place to live. However, you can save money on a few things, like some common household goods. Your total cost of living will depend on how large your family is, the part of town you live in, transportation methods, and more.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Seattle?

To live comfortably in Seattle, a single adult should aim to earn around $128,000 annually. While that number might seem steep, it reflects the city’s higher cost of living—especially for housing and everyday expenses. Seattle residents also tend to earn more than the national average, with a median household income close to $122,000 annually. And with smart budgeting—like saving on groceries, transportation, or entertainment—it’s possible to enjoy life in Seattle without stretching your finances too thin.

What are the average monthly expenses in Seattle?

A single adult living in Seattle can expect to spend about $1,600 per month on essentials—excluding rent. This typically includes utilities, transportation, groceries, and other day-to-day costs. Of course, your actual expenses may vary based on your lifestyle and spending habits, and with careful budgeting, it’s possible to cut costs in certain areas.

***

Moving to Seattle? Extra Space Storage has helpful moving resources for places people move that will make the transition seamless. And if you need storage during your move, we have plenty of storage facilities located throughout the Seattle metro. Find a storage unit near you!