Moving to Spokane? Here’s Your Cost of Living Breakdown

If you are considering a move to Spokane, you are not alone. Spokane continues to attract new residents who are drawn to its natural beauty, four-season climate, growing job market, and lower cost of living compared to major West Coast cities.

Located in eastern Washington near the Idaho border, Spokane offers a balance between outdoor adventure and urban convenience. With the Spokane River running through downtown and quick access to mountains, lakes, and ski resorts, it is easy to see why more people are making the move.

Before relocating, it is important to understand what it actually costs to live in Spokane. Below is a detailed breakdown of housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, healthcare, and other everyday expenses so you can plan your move with confidence.

Spokane Housing Costs

Housing is typically the largest expense in any city, and Spokane is no exception. However, compared to Seattle and other Pacific Northwest metros, Spokane remains significantly more affordable.

According to recent market data from sources like Zillow and Redfin, the median home value in Spokane is approximately $390,000 to $420,000, depending on neighborhood and market conditions. This is considerably lower than Seattle, where median home values often exceed $800,000.

Renting in Spokane

If you are planning to rent, here are the average monthly costs:

• One bedroom apartment in the city center: $1,200 to $1,400
• One bedroom apartment outside downtown: $1,000 to $1,250
• Three bedroom apartment in the city center: $1,900 to $2,300
• Three bedroom outside downtown: $1,600 to $2,000

Neighborhoods like South Hill, Kendall Yards, and North Spokane tend to have higher rental rates, while areas farther from downtown are generally more affordable.

With ongoing population growth, rental demand has increased. Many new residents temporarily rent before purchasing a home, which sometimes creates a need for flexible storage options during transitions. Local facilities such as More Space Self Storage in Spokane provide convenient access for residents moving between homes or downsizing within the city.

Utilities and Monthly Bills in Spokane

Utility costs in Spokane are fairly moderate, especially compared to larger metropolitan areas.

For a standard 900 square foot apartment, average monthly utility expenses typically include:

• Electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage: $150 to $220
• Internet: $60 to $90
• Cell phone plan: $60 to $100 per line

Spokane experiences cold winters and warm summers. According to the National Weather Service, average January lows dip into the 20s while July highs reach the 80s. Heating costs can rise in the winter months, especially for single-family homes. If you are moving from a mild climate, budgeting for winter heating and seasonal gear is important.

Grocery and Food Costs

Grocery prices in Spokane are close to the national average. Shopping at major chains like Safeway, Rosauers, WinCo, or Costco can help manage costs.

Here are approximate grocery prices:

• Gallon of milk: $3.50 to $4.50
• Dozen eggs: $3.00 to $4.00
• Loaf of bread: $2.50 to $4.00
• Boneless chicken breast per pound: $4.00 to $6.00
• Ground beef per pound: $4.50 to $6.50

Dining out is also relatively affordable compared to coastal cities. A casual restaurant meal may cost $15 to $20 per person, while a three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant averages $60 to $90.

Spokane has a growing food scene, especially downtown and in Kendall Yards. Seasonal farmers' markets and local breweries are popular gathering spots throughout the year.

Transportation Expenses

Spokane is largely car-dependent, although public transportation is available through the Spokane Transit Authority.

Average transportation costs include:

• Gasoline: Typically close to the Washington state average, often $3.80 to $4.50 per gallon depending on market conditions
• Monthly public transit pass: Approximately $45 to $60
• Car insurance: $100 to $150 per month on average

Because Spokane is geographically spread out, commuting times can vary. Many residents live in suburban neighborhoods and commute to downtown or nearby commercial centers.

If you work in a remote or hybrid environment, transportation costs may be lower than in larger urban areas with daily traffic congestion.

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare expenses in Spokane align closely with national averages. The city is home to major medical providers, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and MultiCare Deaconess Hospital.

Typical monthly health insurance premiums vary widely depending on employer coverage and family size, but individual marketplace plans often range from $350 to $600 per month before subsidies.

Routine doctor visits without insurance may cost $100 to $200 per visit. Prescription costs depend on coverage and pharmacy selection.

Washington State health insurance information can be found through the Washington Healthplanfinder website, which provides updated plan and pricing details.

Taxes in Spokane, WA

Washington State does not have a state income tax, which is a major financial advantage for many residents moving from states like California or Oregon.

However, there are other taxes to consider:

• Sales tax in Spokane is approximately 9 percent
• Property tax rates average around 0.9 percent to 1.1 percent of assessed home value
• Gas taxes are among the highest rates in the United States

The absence of state income tax often offsets higher sales taxes for many households, depending on income level and spending habits.

Entertainment and Recreation Costs

One of Spokane’s biggest advantages is access to outdoor recreation at little or no cost. The city is surrounded by lakes, hiking trails, and ski resorts.

Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane is a popular destination and home to seasonal events and attractions. 

Popular recreational activities include:

• Skiing at Mt. Spokane or Schweitzer Mountain
• Hiking in Riverside State Park
• Boating on Lake Coeur d’Alene
• Attending Spokane Chiefs hockey games

Gym memberships typically range from $30 to $70 per month. Movie tickets average $12 to $15.

Childcare and Education Costs

For families moving to Spokane, childcare and education are significant considerations.

Average childcare costs:

• Infant daycare: $900 to $1,200 per month
• Preschool: $800 to $1,100 per month

Spokane Public Schools serve much of the city and include several highly rated elementary and high schools. Private school tuition varies widely but often ranges from $6,000 to $12,000 annually.

Higher education options include Gonzaga University and Eastern Washington University nearby.

Comparing Spokane to Other Cities

When comparing Spokane to other Washington cities:

• Spokane housing costs are dramatically lower than those in Seattle and Bellevue
• Utility costs are similar or slightly lower than the national average
• No state income tax increases overall take-home pay

For many households relocating from higher-cost metro areas, Spokane offers more space for the money, including larger homes and lower monthly mortgage payments.

If you are relocating within the city or transitioning between properties, planning for belongings can make the process smoother. Reviewing tips from our blog, such as storing valuable items and storage tips for first-time renters, can help streamline your relocation. 

Another useful read for local homeowners includes guidance on seasonal organization and space management, which can be especially helpful during Spokane’s winter months when indoor storage becomes a priority.

Is Spokane Affordable?

Spokane’s overall cost of living is slightly below the national average, especially when housing is factored in. While prices have risen over the past few years, the city remains one of the more affordable options in Washington State.

A single renter might expect monthly living expenses of:

• Rent and utilities: $1,300 to $1,700
• Groceries and dining: $400 to $600
• Transportation: $200 to $400
• Healthcare and insurance: Varies widely

A family of four with a mortgage may see monthly expenses ranging from $4,000 to $6,000, depending on housing choice, childcare needs, and lifestyle.

Planning Your Move to Spokane

Relocating always comes with transitional periods. Some residents downsize from larger homes, while others upsize and need temporary space while settling in. Having access to a centrally located storage facility in Spokane can simplify these transitions without adding stress.

Spokane continues to grow because it offers something many cities struggle to balance: affordability, natural beauty, and opportunity.

Understanding the real numbers behind housing, utilities, food, and transportation helps you prepare for a smooth move and long-term financial stability.

If Spokane is on your radar, this cost breakdown should give you a realistic starting point for budgeting and planning your next chapter in eastern Washington.