Washington’s landscape is as diverse as its cost of living. While some cities are known for sky-high rents, others remain surprisingly affordable. If you’re moving to Washington and on the hunt for the cheapest places to live in Washington where rent won’t break the bank, you’re in luck.
We’ve scoured the rental market to find eight of the cheapest places to live in the state this year, all with average rents below the state median of $1,731. We’ll also provide some context for each featured town, highlighting their top employers and the most popular affordable attractions.
1. Yakima
Average rent: $960
Yakima takes the top place on this list as the cheapest place to live in Washington. The average rent here is just $960, making it a haven for budget-conscious renters. Studios are particularly affordable at $800, while even a two-bedroom apartment averages only $1,150.
Yakima’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, healthcare, and education, with major employers like Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital and the Yakima School District providing steady jobs. For entertainment, residents can enjoy the Yakima Greenway, a scenic bike path, and the Yakima Farmers Market, where you can sample the region’s famous fresh produce.
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2. Spokane Valley
Average rent: $1,345
Just east of Spokane, Spokane Valley is another budget-friendly option with an average rent of $1,345. Here, you can find a studio for around $1,200 or a two-bedroom for $1,518. Spokane Valley benefits from the same affordable lifestyle as Spokane, but with a slightly quieter, suburban atmosphere.
In Spokane Valley, significant employers include Central Valley School District and the Spokane Valley Mall. For a little fun under the Washington sun, locals love exploring the Centennial Trail, which has 37 miles of pristine hiking and biking paths. The trail is free to use, making it a perfect weekend activity that won’t impact your bottom line.
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3. Spokane
Average rent: $1,435
Spokane’s average rent sits at $1,435. Studio apartments in Spokane go for about $1,300, and two-bedroom apartments average $1,617. Spokane’s affordability stems from its more moderate real estate market, which avoids the spikes seen in cities like Seattle.
Gonzaga University is one of the most impactful employers in Spokane, providing plenty of jobs and solidifying the city’s status as one of the top Washington college towns. The city is also home to plenty of free and low-cost attractions, including Riverfront Park, one of the most beautiful urban parks in the country according to National Geographic. Manito Park is another local favorite, thanks to its lush gardens and meticulously maintained walking paths.
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4. Richland
Average rent: $1,549
Richland is a great place to settle down with an average rent of $1,549. A studio apartment here rents for about $1,275, and two-bedrooms average $1,798. What makes Richland stand out is its relatively low cost of living in comparison to nearby cities, particularly in housing. The abundance of newer apartment complexes also helps keep prices competitive, offering modern amenities without the steep price tag.
Richland is part of the Tri-Cities area and is home to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, a very impactful local employer. The city’s proximity to the Columbia River provides opportunities for free outdoor activities, like kayaking and paddleboarding. The nearby Sacagawea Heritage Trail is a solid spot for a scenic walk and ideal for those who love the outdoors.
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5. Olympia
Average rent: $1,552
As the state capital, Olympia offers an appealing mix of affordability and livability with an average rent of $1,552. A studio here costs about $1,237, while two-bedroom apartments go for $1,924. The presence of government jobs contributes to stable, reasonable rent prices across the city.
In Olympia, the state government is the largest employer, providing plenty of job stability. For outdoorsy types, the city’s waterfront parks offer beautiful views of Puget Sound at no cost. The Olympia Farmers Market, open year-round, is another gem where you can enjoy live music and find fresh produce without spending much.
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6. Tacoma
Average rent: $1,563
With an average rent of $1,563, Tacoma is a steal compared to nearby Seattle. Studio apartments in Tacoma average $1,462, and two-bedroom apartments go for around $1,692. Tacoma’s affordability is partly due to its status as a smaller, less dense city, which keeps housing prices from skyrocketing.
Tacoma is known for its robust job market, with major employers like MultiCare Health System and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. For affordable fun, you can visit Point Defiance Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., which has free gardens and trails. The Museum District also provides discounted admission days, perfect for a budget-friendly cultural experience.
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7. Bellingham
Average rent: $1,621
Bellingham offers a blend of coastal living and affordability, with an average rent of $1,621. Studios here cost about $1,412, and two-bedroom apartments average $1,850. Bellingham’s affordability is partly due to its smaller size and distance from Seattle, which helps keep housing costs in check.
Bellingham’s economy is driven by Western Washington University and PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. The city is also a hotspot for outdoorsy folks, with free access to the Chuckanut Mountains and Bellingham Bay. Boulevard Park has stunning waterfront views and is a popular spot for locals looking to unwind without spending a dime.
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8. Lakewood
Average rent: $1,659
With an average rent of $1,659, Lakewood is another affordable option in Washington. Here, studios rent for $1,457, and two-bedroom apartments average $1,873. Lakewood’s affordability is bolstered by its proximity to Tacoma, offering residents lower rents while still being close to larger city amenities.
Lakewood is home to employers like St. Clare Hospital and Clover Park School District. For a nice day out and about, you can visit Fort Steilacoom Park, a vast green space with trails and picnic areas, free to the public. The Lakewood Playhouse also offers affordable tickets for local theater productions, making it easy to enjoy the arts on a budget.
Apartments for rent in Lakewood | Houses for rent in Lakewood | Homes for sale in Lakewood
Methodology
All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have an average rent price under the median rent price for the state – which is $1,731 per month according to Redfin data. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2024.
