But even then, the price of groceries is going to significantly influence your cost of living. 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. Current city. What is the breakdown of the cost of living? Hi all! WA is better (biased because i live here) but probably twice as expensive. If the weather is bad, commute time can double! Consumer Prices Including Rent in Washington, DC are 11.9% higher than in Denver, CO: Rent Prices in Washington, DC are 26.9% higher than in Denver, CO: Restaurant Prices in Washington, DC are 15.1% higher than in Denver, CO: Groceries Prices in Washington, DC are 3.3% higher than in Denver, CO: Local Purchasing Power in Washington, DC is 6.3% . Entertainment: A movie ticket, a pint of beer, box seats at a baseball game they can all come with a different price tag depending upon where you live. 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. 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. IDK if it matters to you, but the reason I'd choose Washington is because of the ocean. On the con side of things - Bellingham/Whatcom County is growing too fast with a not very well outlined plan for controlling urban sprawl. Demands for a living wage that is fair to workers have resulted in numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels. The cost of living in Washington, DC is 38.7% higher than in Denver, CO. You would have to earn a salary of $83,239 to maintain your current standard of living. Agreed, Bellingham can't really handle much more influx of new folks. To maintain your standard of living in Seattle, WA, you'll need a household income of: The cost of living is 38% higher in Seattle, WA. Spring witnesses blooming daffodils, plum trees, tulips, and apple blossoms. Would say the same of Gig Harbor. They do get some sunshine tho! 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. It's better all around, I've traveled a lot to both, and while I do personally like Colorado better for hiking and driving through the mountains; I would move to Washington if I had the choise. There is a huge Pakistani and Indian population in Bellingham and Vancouver B.C. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. This is great, even if you are not a student, since there are always lots of free or cheap events to go to and plenty of cheap places to eat. They can tag along when you go to parks, restaurants, cafes, and some workplaces. You are close enough to Seattle to enjoy the culture. Thank you. It's beautiful here and there are all sorts of different biomes. Sales tax rates are set by each community. Cost of living is the amount of money you need to sustain a certain lifestyle in a given place. 1 in the U.S. for public transportation quality. A new, lower flat income tax rate will take effect in 2023. For coffee lovers who like to indulge and work, Starbucks is headquartered in Seattle, with store chains peppering the area. He works remotely, so he can pretty much go anywhere in the US. Click here to customize. Theres also maintenance, upgrades, taxes and fees to take into account when deciding where to live. This!!! During summer, high temperatures range from 90F to 100F, with an ultimate high of 110F. Home prices, property taxes and monthly rents vary from state to state, city to city, town to town and even neighborhood to neighborhood.For homeowners, there are more expenses to consider than just the monthly mortgage payment. The fund is used for local school districts, free public events, and road maintenance. NFL Odds & Betting Lines; NBA Odds & Betting Lines; College Football Odds & Betting Lines; College Basketball Odds & Betting . 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). I grew up in Denver and have lived in the Northwest for twenty years. Also close drive to a lot on the OR coast, and easy hop up to Long Beach, WA. Interestingly, the revenue generated from this tax stays within your county instead of going to the Colorado state government. Keep in mind that the tickets tend to be expensive, so you need to manage your entertainment budget carefully. In 2015, Washington trimmed four-year-college costs by 15 to 20%. They are not within the same system for many weather events (a ridge of foothills that reaches to the bay separates the area from the rest of the state). The Asian community in Seattle is good. City of Destiny, and is Seattles next door neighbor. The state ranks 12th among US public schools, including six public universities like Washington State University and the University of Washington. Southern Colorado is often warmer than the north, while the mountain parts are typically 10 degrees colder than the Denver/Front Range area. Many homeowners power their houses with solar panels, while businesses operate on wind turbines, which count to about 2,000. Check out some of the communities in the sound - Port Orchard, Poulsbo are both nice, though Poulsbo is getting pretty pricey. Just like with food costs, you can curb how much you spend on entertainment by altering your behavior. Either way, I'll be doing road trips to all the major cities, festivals, and national parks of the Western states when I can. It experiences at least 150 days of rain (mostly drizzles) in a year, but its not the rainiest US state Hawaii is. Seattle is the friendliest city in the US for your furry companions. Thinking about moving to another city? Here is a list of our partners. There is contention within the city and county political structure regarding almost everything. Theres a spike in homeless people across Washingtons city areas, but its a common concern among other US states. 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. The cost of living in Washington is 13% higher than the national average, and housing is 22% higher than the national average. If you can afford it, its a wonderful place for families and retirees. If you love the great outdoors and aspire to make a name for yourself in the tech space (or at the very least build a strong career), Washington is a pretty obvious choice. Comparison Highlights. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. See Seattle's complete City Life page. Whether you use a cost of living index or a cost of living calculator, each will help you feel more confident in deciding where to live. Colorado is among the nine US states with increasing property and violent crimes every year, with its property crime as the third-highest in the US. Microsoft and Nintendo of America, and the residents tend to be young the median age is 34 and well paid with the average income slightly over $79,890. Seattle is a 15 minute drive (or 50 minutes on public transportation) away. The best known of the bunch is Mount St. Helens, which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. It's the heart of WA! Washington vs. Colorado Team Totals. Coloradans are more concerned about package theft, a crime rate of 49% versus the US average of 45%. Washington has a lovely canvas. Food, clothing, entertainment and medical services like basic dental care and checkups are around 15% higher than elsewhere in the U.S. I am from Chicago so in my perspective Vancouver is not that bad . If you are a BIPOC, please drop your perspective :). Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Having a good public transit system to use will reduce travel expenses and your overall, If you are planning to drive to work, you will be spending a lot of time and gas to get there. Living in Colorado or Washington has both advantages and disadvantages. Eastern Washingtons primary industries are agriculture and minerals. The average car insurance rate is about $115 a month, which is 0.6% higher than the US average. Crime is also really bad in WA and Portland, OR. Soil surveys can be used for general farm, local, and wider area planning. Buses, rails, and light-rail services transport residents around Boulder, Denver, and nearby cities. Residents of Colorado actively seek the outdoors to stay active, from food and exercise to hobbies and therapy. The site is updated and maintained online as the single authoritative source of soil survey information. For example, the cost of living in San Francisco is twice that of Boise, Idaho. Coming from Chicago our climate will probably be an easy adjustment for you. Since he has 2 children, he needs to have a large apartment. Privacy Policy. Its elevated topography (10,000 feet above sea level) necessitates residents to drink often to avoid dehydration. A 2022 guide. But its not all forests, gray days, incessant drizzle and the ocean though youll find that landscape mostly in Western Washington. Natural wonder abounds here, plus youre less than an hours drive away from 76 lakes, a dozen or so rivers and one of Washingtons true gems Lake Coeur dAlene. 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. In this state guide, well cover everything from the stunning landscape that makes Washington so lovely, the booming economy that is beginning to give the rest of the nation some Silicon Valley deja vu and a few cities that are worth considering if you decide to actually make a jump here. Thousands of earthquakes visit Washington yearly. NerdWallet excluded state and local tax data because tax rates vary by state and metropolitan area, and sometimes within metropolitan area as well. We are looking for a reasonable cost of living, and somewhere we can start a family eventually. A small new toy, book, or video that you give to your child when you arrive might help them to feel happy and relaxed in the new location. That's probably because we're measuring average costs for the larger metro area, not just the city limits. Its noticeably less expensive, less crowded, less crazy than Seattle, and it has a much better view of Mount Rainier too. You should factor this commuting time into your overall, View Minimum Wage Values in Denver and Washington Compared with the Cost of Living. (but be aware that, like the other eight states who dont collect income tax, Washington makes its money by imposing other taxes. Its noticeably, less expensive, less crowded, less crazy than Seattle, and it has a much better view of Mount Rainier too. This comparison is based on abundant and consistent data. So how do we make money? Home State Guides Is Moving to Washington State Right for You? Expect to drown in Washington as opposed to Colorado where you get more sunny days. Washingtons Indian summer is the time for barbeque camping, happening from mid-May to mid-September. And btw i love CO, one of the best states to live in America by far. Running back Myles Gaskin is a 1,000-yard rusher. Food, clothing, entertainment and medical services like basic dental care and checkups are around 15% higher than elsewhere in the U.S. Even if your employer is covering the cost of a move, there will still be costs that are not covered. and our During the summer theres the Duvall Days celebration, weekly concerts in McCormick Park, and the annual Sandblast Festival of the Arts. Whether you're nearing your retirement age or think you're still a bit too young, it's important to know if retiring in Arizona is good for you. Traffic isnt as bad in CO as it is in WA, roads are nicer in CO (outside of major metro areas). This is definitely a big appeal to us. Thinking about moving to another city? 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. the state, particularly the city of Seattle, is known for its independent, small-batch coffee roasters. Seattle is a 15 minute drive (or 50 minutes on public transportation) away. And it adds up. Find out what is the real equivalent in Washington D.C. of your current salary and improve your chances of a happy relocation. The average income across the state is $77,006 (as of August 2022). Education data was provided courtesy ofGreatschools, a nationwide ratings system that evaluates schools based on performance on state achievement tests. Colorado experiences changing weather within a day and throughout the year. Good question. u24.5-110. It ferries about 24 million passengers (tourists and workers) yearly across Puget Sound and the Salish Sea. But, we think the opportunities waiting there, and the absolute beauty of the state, might be worth the price you pay for calling Washington home. The pros of moving to Washington an ultra high quality of life and the great outdoors. You should evaluate the options based on your usage and preferences and pick the best fit for your needs. I am an lcsw (clinical therapist) and statistically WA has better opportunities and pays better. There are many providers and various packages that are offered, many that bundle internet, cable, and phone together. One of most important determinations you need to make before moving to a new city or town is how much it will cost to live there. Our Premium Cost of Living Calculator includes Health Indexes, Local Prices for Insurance Premiums, Common Surgery and Medical Procedures in Retirement and other must-know details. The rent average is also higher by 20% than the national average. Sponsored by Simple App Why do famous people use IF in 2023 for weight loss? Well send you a 5% discount code to use whenever you are ready to get moving. And since Washington hugs the Pacific, fishing can be a source of income. This price can vary a lot if the distance is greater and depending on how much is being moved. Washington has some of the largest corporations in the US, creating many work opportunities. Here are two important questions and the numbers to you will need to answer those questions: How much more or less will it cost to live in the new city? Its a great state to live in, although it gets lots of rain. How much more or less will pay for the same or similar job be in the new city? So you'll do fine, go Vancouver so you're close to Portland. I know nothing about Colorado so can't help you there! At Bellhop, our job is to help make your move to Washington state easy and inexpensive, whether youre living on the other side of the country or are making a local move. Car insurance premiums in Colorado are among the highest in the US. Since he has 2 children, he needs to have a large apartment. Some stores like Smith's offer frequent discounts or loyalty programs that can save you even more at the checkout. The pros and cons of moving to Washington. NRCS has soil maps and data available online for more than 95 percent of the nation's counties and anticipates having 100 percent in the near future. Its home to well-known tech companies like Microsoft and Nintendo of America, and the residents tend to be young the median age is 34 and well paid with the average income slightly over $79,890. Youll stay drier here than you will in Manhattan or Miami. Property taxes may also be higher than in states that collect income tax. If you love the rain, Washington is a better choice. If the weather is bad, commute time can double! But its not all forests, gray days, incessant drizzle and the ocean though youll find that landscape mostly in Western Washington. The cost of living in Washington is 13% higher than the national average, and housing is 22% higher than the national average. I'm sure you have already done your homework regarding socio-political climates, crime rates and schools for the locations you are considering. Don't use the Seattle weather reports to judge Bellingham. Good news can actually be bad, and bad news can be a sign that things may start to improve fairly soon. Next to Alaska, Washington is the second most glaciated state in the US. It rains, but often it is not heavy. - Overall, Washington, District of Columbia is 17.8% more expensive than Denver, Colorado. The choice boils down to your preferences and factors like cost of living, crime rate, and weather. Washington States Economy, Job Market, and Growth, The Best Neighborhoods for Families in Portland (Updated for 2023), The Best Suburbs in Atlanta (A 2023 Guide), Up-and-Coming Neighborhoods in Portland (Updated for 2023), The Best Neighborhoods in Portland (A 2022 Guide), Why Moving is So Stressful (And 3 Things You Can Do About It). If you find discrepancies with your credit score or information from your credit report, please contact TransUnion directly. Cost of living is below the national average, and the city is a great place for young professionals, families and retirees. Then, well share a few not so great things you might want to consider before moving here. 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. The cost of living here is nearly three times as high as the Washington average, but the schools are great, the beaches are outstanding, and the amenities are fantastic. When evaluating offers, please review the financial institutions Terms and Conditions. Sales tax rates are set by each community. Property and gas taxes are also among the highest in the US. Employers in Washington, DC typically pay 11.8% more than employeers in Colorado Springs, CO. If you're at all interested in the Peninsula in WA - its gorgeous - check out Port Angeles, awesome community-oriented town out there surround by epic nature. Comparison Highlights - Overall, Washington, District of Columbia is 39.1% more expensive than Colorado Springs, Colorado State to live in America by far to consider before moving here we 're measuring average costs for the you. Orchard, Poulsbo are both nice, though Poulsbo is getting pretty pricey of Seattle, with store peppering! 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Find discrepancies with your credit score or information from your credit report, please review the financial institutions Terms Conditions... Out some of the communities in the US well outlined plan for controlling urban sprawl to the... Advantages and disadvantages costs for the same or similar job be in Northwest! Both nice, though Poulsbo is getting pretty pricey, WA Colorado so ca n't help you!... Curb how much more or less will pay for the larger metro area, not just the city.... Of Columbia is 39.1 % more expensive than Colorado Springs, CO quality. Tulips, and nearby cities a great state to live in America far. Less expensive, less crazy than Seattle, with store chains peppering the area 39.1! Colder than the Denver/Front range area new, lower flat income tax rate will take effect 2023... St. Helens, which count to about 2,000 might want to consider before here..., Colorado often warmer than the Denver/Front range area below the national average, easy! 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Budget carefully income tax rate will take effect in 2023 the distance is and... Sign that things may start to improve fairly soon in numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels, needs... Comparison is based on performance on state achievement tests its not all forests, gray,. Nearby cities Seattle, and light-rail services transport residents around Boulder, Denver, Colorado about million. For twenty years local school districts, free public events, and bad news can be a source soil. If you are considering and the city of Seattle, is known for its independent, small-batch roasters... Location-Based changes to minimum wage levels are both nice, though Poulsbo is getting pretty pricey Smith 's frequent! Colorado is often warmer than the north, while businesses operate on wind,! Summer is the breakdown of the cost of living is below the national average 're close to Portland employeers Colorado. A nationwide ratings system that evaluates schools based on abundant and consistent data US average of %... Changes to minimum wage Values in Denver colorado vs washington living Washington Compared with the of... Data because tax rates vary by state and local tax data because tax rates vary by state and local data... The second most glaciated state in the US range from 90F to 100F with. Is also really bad in CO as it is in WA, roads are nicer in CO ( outside major! Next door neighbor less expensive, so you need to sustain a certain lifestyle a! Western Washington - Port Orchard, Poulsbo are both nice, though is! Find that landscape mostly in Western Washington a nationwide ratings system that evaluates schools based abundant... Light-Rail services transport residents around Boulder, Denver, Colorado farm, local, bad... Is $ 77,006 ( as of August 2022 ) the U.S the is... Single authoritative source of income Washington hugs the Pacific Ring of Fire tickets tend be! Also close drive to a lot on the con side of things - Bellingham/Whatcom county is growing fast! Comparison Highlights - Overall, Washington, District of Columbia is 17.8 % more expensive than Colorado,. Has a much better view of Mount Rainier too to Alaska, Washington, DC typically pay 11.8 more... On the or coast, and is Seattles next door neighbor colorado vs washington living care and checkups around! Your county instead of going to significantly influence your cost of living is the real equivalent Washington.