10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Washington in 2025

Washington's average home value has reached $589,599, and its cost of living is 17% higher than the national average, making home affordability a challenge for many. While cities like Seattle and Bellevue are expensive, there are still budget-friendly options.

Sunnyside, Grandview, and Connell offer lower housing costs, strong job markets, and a high quality of life. We ranked 10 of the most affordable places in Washington based on housing costs, living costs, etc.

After thorough research, we have found the 10 most affordable places to live in Washington in 2025:

Sunnyside tops the list as the most affordable city in Washington. With a median home price of approximately $306,748 and an average rent of $1,020, it offers excellent value. The cost of living is about 4% lower than the state average, making it an attractive option for families and retirees alike.

Sunnyside enjoys over 300 sunny days per year, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and wine tasting in the nearby Rattlesnake Hills. The local economy thrives on agriculture, providing job opportunities and a strong sense of community.

Located in Franklin County, Connell offers a peaceful environment with a median home value of $313,126. The town's cost of living and utility expenses are 2% and 16% below the national average, benefiting retirees and families alike.

Connell is known for its low crime rate, making it a safe place to live. Moreover, the local economy is supported by employers like Lamb Weston, providing job opportunities in the agricultural sector.

Situated between Yakima and Kennewick, Grandview provides an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. The median home price is about $319,625 and the average rent is $1,295. Also, the cost of living is 3% lower than the state average.

Surrounded by stunning mountains, Grandview offers numerous outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Besides this, the city's economy is supported by agriculture and retail, providing stable job opportunities for residents.

Located in Grant County, Moses Lake has a median home price of approximately $361,440. The utilities cost is about 24% lower than the national average.

Moses Lake has a vast shoreline and many recreational options. It’s an ideal spot for people who enjoy water sports and outdoor activities. Its economy is diverse, with key sectors including agriculture and manufacturing, ensuring ample job prospects. Major employers include REC Silicon and Moses Lake Industries, which strengthen the local economy.

Yakima ranks as one of the cheapest places to live in Washington. As a central city in Yakima County, Yakima has a median home value of $341,885. The living costs are 15% lower than the national average, making the city an affordable urban center. Additionally, healthcare costs in the city are 5% below the state average.

Yakima is well-known for its wine, having more than 120 wineries. It also features stunning outdoor areas, including Cowiche Canyon Trail and Mount Rainier National Park. The local economy benefits from agriculture and tourism. These sectors offer residents different job opportunities.

Spokane, the largest city in Eastern Washington, offers a median home value of $379,025 and an average monthly rent of $1,127. Moreover, the cost of living is 14% below the state average, providing urban amenities at a lower cost.

Spokane's economy is robust, with major employers in healthcare, education, and manufacturing, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Gonzaga University. The city's large parks and cultural spots, such as the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, help create a lively community.

As the state capital, Olympia combines governmental employment with a diverse economy. The city offers a median home value of $527,467 and a cost of living 2% below the state average. Additionally, it has an unemployment rate of 4.6%, which is relatively low.

Major employers include the State of Washington and Providence St. Peter Hospital, providing stability in public administration and healthcare sectors. Olympia has a lively arts scene, easy access to the waterfront, and a strong focus on environmental sustainability. With affordability and a rich history, this combination makes Olympia one of the most affordable places to live.

Located in Cowlitz County, Kelso is an affordable option with a median home price of around $371,753 and an average rent of $1,100. The cost of living here is 10% lower than the state average, making it a great choice for families and young professionals.

Besides affordability, Kelso is known for its beautiful parks and proximity to the Columbia River, offering plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. In addition, emerging sectors in the city are healthcare and manufacturing.

Home to Eastern Washington University, Cheney combines top-notch education with affordability. The city's median home price stands at $411,707, and monthly utility costs are around 3% lower than the national average.

This vibrant college town offers a youthful energy, with numerous cultural events and activities throughout the year. You enjoy a safe community with numerous parks and recreational facilities, fostering an active lifestyle.

As a major urban center in Pierce County, Tacoma offers a blend of city amenities and affordability. The median home price in Tacoma is approximately $477,289, providing more budget-friendly options compared to nearby Seattle's $842,068. Additionally, the average rent in the city is $1,457.

Tacoma's economy is diverse, with strong sectors in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Major employers include MultiCare Health System and the University of Washington Tacoma. The city is also famous for its lively arts scene, waterfront spots, and many outdoor activities.

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If you're also trying to stretch your budget without compromising on safety, don’t miss our guide to the safest places to live in Washington —because peace of mind shouldn’t come at a premium.

And if you're still weighing your options, wondering whether to rent or buy, you're not the only one asking that question right now. Our Rent vs. Buy comparison breaks down the pros, cons, and long-term trade-offs—so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and a plan that fits your life.

Sunnyside is one of the most affordable cities in Washington, with a low median home price and cost of living. It offers a strong agricultural job market and a safe, family-friendly environment.

Buying is often cheaper long-term due to rising rental prices. In cities like Cheney and Kelso, mortgage payments can be lower than monthly rent, especially when using commission-free platforms like Realpha to save 3% on agent commissions.

You can save thousands by eliminating the 3% traditional buyer’s agent commission. On a $300,000 home, that’s a $9,000 saving. Platforms like Realpha help buyers keep more money in their pockets.

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Discover how our all-in-one homebuying platform can increase your buying power and put money back in your pocket. Start your journey today!

Sign up for free