When you’re looking to move, the cost is likely one of the biggest factors in your decision. Of course, there are many other ones you’ll want to consider too, like the location, housing options, crime rate, and so on, but the expense is usually at the top of the list. While Washington has many wonderful communities to live in, here are 12 of the cheapest places to live in Washington that you’ll be happy to call home:
1. Forks
This rainy town on the Olympic Peninsula has a cost of living about 16% cheaper than the rest of Washington! It's also within an hour of the Olympic National Park where there's always a magical new place to explore.
2. Spokane
For such a recognized region, this city in eastern Washington is actually pretty cheap to reside in. Spokane's cost of living is about 18.5% lower than the average for the state, particularly in housing. The median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is only about $657/month!
3. Millwood
If you don't want to move to the middle of nowhere, but still don't want to be right in the city either, this is a safe and affordable suburb to reside in just outside of Spokane. Besides the low cost of living, the town has several amazing restaurants, housing options and so much more.
4. Westport
Not only can you enjoy a peaceful life by the beach in this town, but the city has a cost of living about 15% lower than the average for Washington. The area also has a notably low crime rate, as well as stunning sunsets that will take your breath away every single night.
5. Richland
The entire Tri-cities region is a fantastic place to live. Not only can you enjoy sunny weather often, but there are all kinds of things to do in the area that won't break your bank. The cost of living here is roughly 15% lower than our state's average.
6. Prosser
This historical town is located along the Yakima River near the Tri-Cities and is known for its annual balloon rally. The area has a cost of living about 20% lower than the state's average, as well as an extremely low crime rate and several amazing wineries.
7. Chewelah
About an hour north of Spokane you can find this small community with a ski resort and dozens of places to go hiking. The historical town is also pretty cheap to reside in, with a cost of living almost 22% lower than our state's average.
8. Montesano
If you're looking for a small town in western Washington that's cheap, safe, and comfortable, Montesano is an excellent option. The cost of living here is much less than our state's average, and the crime rate is significantly lower than the national average. The city's in an ideal spot as well, located not too far from the coast or from our state's capital.
9. Cashmere
This quaint area in Central Washington is definitely an economical place to live, with a cost of living about 10% cheaper than our state's average. In addition, the town's only a short drive from Wenatchee and Leavenworth where there are countless outdoor opportunities!
10. Walla Walla
Between the charming shops on Main Street and dozens of premium wineries, you may not worry about how much you're spending while living out here. Luckily, the cost of residing in this area is actually pretty affordable, at nearly 18% lower than the overall average for Washington.
11. Selah
Out of the many wonderful places to live in Central Washington, this small town north of Yakima is remarkably low cost. You can enjoy outdoor recreational opportunities all over, not to mention an excellent climate that's perfect for farming and agriculture.
12. Ellensburg
In the heart of Central Washington, you can find this historical town with a cost of living about 12% lower than the state's average. The location is ideal, though - whether you want to travel to Seattle, Spokane, or up into the Cascades, you're right in the middle of all our state's beauty.
Have you been to any of these charming, yet cheap towns in Washington? What other affordable places would you add to this list?
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