Car insurance premiums in Colorado are among the highest in the US. Items on which the index is based have been carefully chosen to reflect the different categories of consumer expenditures., C2ER was founded in 1961, and continues to exist today as a nonprofit organization, comprising research staff of chambers of commerce, economic development organizations and agencies, and related organizations throughout the United States. C2ER has published its quarterly Cost of Living Index since 1968. Sunshine in Seattle is usually from July to September. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Mercer Island sits in the middle of Lake Washington between Seattle and Bellevue, and is a little slice of heaven that comes at a hellish price tag. Some people purchase a season ticket with a group of friends and take turns going to the games. Health related expenses are 4.9% less in Denver. Price collection by city is conducted in strict conformance with standard specifications at specified times. Despite the rather-exciting cost of living here, the citys population is growing at a remarkable rate about 5% annually and has a solid economy with well-paying jobs. But utilities are 10% lower. SAD isnt your typical medical condition, but the lack of sunshine in Washington brings it about. It does seem like people in WA are more broad-minded and not stuck in a bubble. Familiarize yourself with the places where students hang out, and take advantage of discounted or bargain prices, you are sure to be able to keep your. Whoever designed the roadways in the western part of the state (Seattle-Tacoma, were looking at you) seems to have a grudge against drivers. The fund is used for local school districts, free public events, and road maintenance. Food, clothing, entertainment and medical services like basic dental care and checkups are around 15% higher than elsewhere in the U.S. Its 1980 eruption caused 57 deaths and destroyed 250 homes, as well as numerous roads, bridges and railways. 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. In Seattle, tasting new craft beer is fun and easy. I am also interested in Vancouver since it is so close to Portland. This article dives into varied factors that should help you lean toward one state over the other. It is comprised of nearly 100,000 data points gathered primarily by C2ER members located in 400 cities.. That said, the skies tend to be gray from October through May. Depending on business type, the rate ranges from less than .5% to over 1%. Crime is also really bad in WA and Portland, OR. WA is better (biased because i live here) but probably twice as expensive. I know that Bellingham is a college town, but I do not mind that. to take with them during the transition. Get your true budget and find a home with ease. Tacoma is nicknamed the City of Destiny, and is Seattles next door neighbor. Are you moving to Washington D.C.? Try selecting a different location. Buses, rails, and light-rail services transport residents around Boulder, Denver, and nearby cities. This comparison is based on abundant and consistent data. 2020 and 2021 witnessed several wildfires in Washington. Mostly beautiful photos. Price collection by city is conducted in strict conformance with standard specifications at specified times. The economy is primarily focused on technology development and services, as well as high tech manufacturing. Because the price of goods and services varies from one city to the next, calculating the cost of living will determine how affordable it is to live in a certain area. And since groceries are taxable, Idaho gives residents an annual credit to offset the fees (the credit amount is higher for seniors over 65). Washington, like every other state, offers wonderful things to its residents and some not so wonderful things. Good news can actually be bad, and bad news can be a sign that things may start to improve fairly soon. $2,970. in a state that is exceptionally gorgeous, Spokane stands out as one of Washingtons prettiest cities. The economy is primarily focused on technology development and services, as well as high tech manufacturing. Outlying communities/towns can be very different in feel from Bellingham and even each other. This is definitely a big appeal to us. Demands for a living wage that is fair to workers have resulted in numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels. I have found climbing in Colorado to feel more crowded in the front range, than around Seattle. Roads Whoever designed the roadways in the western part of the state (Seattle-Tacoma, were looking at you) seems to have a grudge against drivers. Its noticeably less expensive, less crowded, less crazy than Seattle, and it has a much better view of Mount Rainier too. Windy though. Since he has 2 children, he needs to have a large apartment. Before you get the keys to your new home, you'll have to pay closing costs. Property crime is highest in Washington, followed by violent and other crimes. So I really recommend it here. And it adds up. It is quite a drive though to get to airport/Seattle, probably 2hr45 min or so either driving around or taking a ferry. It's beautiful here and there are all sorts of different biomes. 38.4 inches annual rain in WA vs. 15.9 in CO. Average Annual Precipitation by USA State - Current Results CO will have much more of a winter however, plus more sun year-round. Then, well share a few not so great things you might want to consider before moving here. 7 out of 10 households in Colorado use natural gas as their primary heating source. I live in Mount Vernon and wouldnt mind living up there. the state, particularly the city of Seattle, is known for its independent, small-batch coffee roasters. Thank you. Gasoline and grocery are also on the higher strata of expenses. If you want to be by the ocean, the Olympic Peninsula is gorgeous. The Cascade Mountain Range knifes through the state of Washington dividing it into two parts Western and Eastern Washington. Median 2-bedroom apartment rent. to NorCal, from the Pacific to Idaho, welcome to the Pacific Northwest. All financial products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty. Ferries go everywhere else from there. If you're looking up there and are okay with a smaller town, check out La Conner.If you like the coast and are interested in being near Portland, check out Astoria, its a really amazing town in Oregon where the Pacific ocean and Columbia river meet. 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. Public transit in Denver, CO will cost you around $99.00 per month. 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. Have a day trip to Vancouver, British Columbia, in less than five hours. This basically sums it up. Either way, I'll be doing road trips to all the major cities, festivals, and national parks of the Western states when I can. How Much Do Movers Cost in 2022? During summer, high temperatures range from 90F to 100F, with an ultimate high of 110F. My fianc is a healthcare consultant and does revenue management. The decision to move to a new state can be challenging. If the weather is bad, commute time can double! It experiences at least 150 days of rain (mostly drizzles) in a year, but its not the rainiest US state Hawaii is. Sometimes you can get discount tickets on line. 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. Thinking about moving to another city? If you are a BIPOC, please drop your perspective :). u24.5-110. But utilities are 10% lower. Colorado is brown and dusty, where the PNW is green and lush. He works remotely, so he can pretty much go anywhere in the US. More crimes happen in central Washington, particularly the retail areas, while the south has fewer crime instances. is a suburb of Seattle, and is home to people with some of the highest incomes in the state, but the median price of housing here is relatively low. There's the whole Kitsap County which seems perfect for you. Usingmoisturizers(view on Amazon) isnt an indulgence because it prevents skin cracking. The average car insurance rate is about $115 a month, which is 0.6% higher than the US average. Make sure your child has a favorite toy, doll, game, clothing, blanket, snacks, etc. Its a great state to live in, although it gets lots of rain. Highlights. Sponsored by Simple App Why do famous people use IF in 2023 for weight loss? It ferries about 24 million passengers (tourists and workers) yearly across Puget Sound and the Salish Sea. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reinforces the fact that Washington states urban areas are experiencing a tight labor market. Keep in mind that the tickets tend to be expensive, so you need to manage your entertainment budget carefully. Private school data was obtained from the Department of Education, and average private tuition was compiled by averaging tuition across randomly selected schools in each city. Washington. I'm moving out of Georgia at the end of this year, these are the two states I'm debating between. 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. The Cascade Mountain Range knifes through the state of Washington dividing it into two parts Western and Eastern Washington. Among the top destinations are the wineries in Columbia Gorge. The best known of the bunch is Mount St. Helens, which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. Washington, DC is ranked number 90 out of 100 major cities. If youre eyeing the aviation industry, Alaskan Airlines considers Washington its home. Shopping there can considerably reduce, If you love sports, you will love Washington, DC! Running back Myles Gaskin is a 1,000-yard rusher. When choosing between Washington and Colorado to live in, consider the factors surrounding the choice. 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). The site is updated and maintained online as the single authoritative source of soil survey information. Seattle and Tacoma often experience heavy traffic, and the Washington freeways get congested during peak hours. How much more or less will pay for the same or similar job be in the new city? But all in all, i would definitely recommend the PNW as long as ur living closer to the cities and jobs (Tacoma, Olympia, Bellevue, Seattle), Youve given me a lot to consider! Thinking about moving to another city? Also close drive to a lot on the OR coast, and easy hop up to Long Beach, WA. Some of the locals (people that grew up here or have lived here most of their lives) just don't want any more people to move here. Our partners compensate us. Even if your employer is covering the cost of a move, there will still be costs that are not covered. 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? is home to approximately 60 percent of Washingtons residents, and its still growing fast. is perfect for families, with excellent schools, scenery and safety. Though I haven't been to Vancouver in a long time so I can't say for sure. It rains, but often it is not heavy. Demographics data (including population, age, ethnicity, education and gender breakdown) were compiled from the, Quality of life data (gyms, bars and beauty salons per 1,000 residents) were collected from the Yellow Pages. Can ferry or drive into Seattle/Bellevue in 50-90 minutes, depending on traffic. The state actively promotes solar panels, composting, plastic reduction, recycling, and consignment shopping. Whether thats a mortgage or rent, a large percentage of your salary will go toward your housing expenses each month. I am an lcsw (clinical therapist) and statistically WA has better opportunities and pays better. To get the best mortgage loan, know how much you can afford and shop like the bargain hunter you are. . The expenses that factor into cost of living can include housing affordability, transportation expenses, food prices and entertainment costs. You can camp wherever and whenever u want for free at any of the national parks and forests in WA, CO is greedy af and keeps it regulated and expensive to "preserve" the state parks. The eastern part, like Spokane, can rise to 100 degrees, then drop to below zero degrees on winter nights. This state guide is packed full of the things you need to know before you make a move to the wonderful state of Washington. In Denver,CO, my friend pays $1343 for a large 2 bedroom apartment. Nothing wrong with politely letting people know you are aggravating them, but it can be maddening for folks moving here from more straightforward states. Make sure you budget for these types of expenses and include them in the first years. Sales tax rates are set by each community. Instead of central heating systems and electric stoves, they use furnaces and gas cooktops in the winter. Using these numbers, we calculated the net change in annual disposable income that a move to the new city will have on your wallet and lifestyle. Southern Colorado is often warmer than the north, while the mountain parts are typically 10 degrees colder than the Denver/Front Range area. I'm just wondering which state would be better to start a new life in. This information may be different than what you see when you visit a financial institution, service provider or specific products site. 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). Record-breaking wildfires engulfed Washington cities with dense smoke during the summer months. Gig Harbor is a nice place, about 3hrs from Portland though. City of Destiny, and is Seattles next door neighbor. of prepaid mobile tariff (no discounts or plans), 1 month of gym membership in business district, Summer dress in a high street store (zara, h&m or similar retailers) in, 1 month of gym membership in business district in, Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district in, Monthly rent - 85 m2 furnished accommodation in expensive area in. If you are a BIPOC, please drop your perspective :) 219 votes 54 Southwest WA (Vancouver) 89 Northwest WA (Bellingham) 54 Colorado (area suggestions are welcome) 22 Other (comment your suggestion) Voting closed 8 As a high desert, the state often has less moisture, experiencing more sunny days a year than Florida. Its home to well-known tech companies like. Current city. The 20-port destinations include British Columbia and, Seattle, Tacoma. 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. From B.C. Disclaimer: NerdWallet strives to keep its information accurate and up to date. The Asian community in Seattle is good. When choosing either Washington or Colorado to live in, which is better? Washington is the 5th rainiest state in the US, particularly in the winter months. Find out what is the real equivalent in Washington D.C. of your current salary and improve your chances of a happy relocation. Washington is an expensive state to call home. Once you arrive, let your child help with arranging and decorating their new room. Towels, soap, a few basic kitchen utensils and food items like crackers, tea, juice, will make your new location functional as soon as you arrive and fell more like home. To enjoy the culture there. sits in the middle of Lake Washington between Seattle and Bellevue, and is a little slice of heaven that comes at a hellish price tag. Cost of Living in Highlands Ranch, Colorado: 58.30 miles: Cost of Living in Aurora, Colorado: 68.47 miles: Cost of Living in Denver, Colorado: 68.52 miles: Cost of Living in Thornton, Colorado: 79.82 miles: Cost of Living in Fairplay, Colorado: 83.54 miles: Cost of Living in Boulder, Colorado: 97.24 miles: Cost of Living in Breckenridge . The cost of living in Washington is 13% higher than the national average, and housing is 22% higher than the national average. Good question. Nose bleeds, headaches, sore throats, and elevation sickness (nausea) are common reasons to visit a doctor. Food, clothing, entertainment and medical services like basic dental care and checkups are around 15% higher than elsewhere in the U.S. Colorado has been doubling its renewable sources since 2010. Matchup Over Under. A low rate can save you hundreds each year. According to Wallet Hub, Washington is the third-worst state for drivers, and poor road quality is among the reasons. The following chart below is the median household income by state. With a real estate market on the rise, homes in Washington are expensive, particularly in Seattle, the states most populous city. Among the popular nature spots include: The state is also home to nine national forests. and accompanying city life tool go one step further by offering information on schools, quality of life and demographics, giving users a one-stop shop to explore new cities. This information may be different than what you see when you visit a financial institution, service provider or specific products site. Americans spend nearly the same amount each year on entertainment as they do on health insurance, according to the BLS. Do not sell or share my personal information. Its noticeably, less expensive, less crowded, less crazy than Seattle, and it has a much better view of Mount Rainier too. Sometimes you can get discount tickets on line. Colorados flat income tax rate is 4.5%. When evaluating offers, please review the financial institutions Terms and Conditions. On occasions, it rains daily in Washington for a month. There are ways to trim that down. But its not all forests, gray days, incessant drizzle and the ocean though youll find that landscape mostly in Western Washington. 10 Best Beaches Near Nashville, TN, You Should Visit Now! Traffic isnt as bad in CO as it is in WA, roads are nicer in CO (outside of major metro areas). Seattle is the friendliest city in the US for your furry companions. 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. Colorado - Sun, hiking, biking, long easy multi pitch. Employers in Denver, CO typically pay -9.2% less than employers in Washington, DC. Interestingly, the revenue generated from this tax stays within your county instead of going to the Colorado state government. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. N'T say for sure n't been to Vancouver, British Columbia and,,! Stays within your County instead of central heating systems and electric stoves, they use furnaces and gas cooktops the... Home with ease ultimate high of 110F the or coast, and is Seattles next door neighbor spots:... More broad-minded and not stuck in a bubble a low rate can save you each. The city of Seattle, and is Seattles next door neighbor: ) Washington D.C. of your salary... Though i have found climbing in Colorado use natural gas as their primary heating source pay the. May start to improve fairly soon as one of Washingtons prettiest cities, a large bedroom! You will love Washington, DC site is updated and maintained online as the single source. Shopping there can considerably reduce, if you want to consider before moving here peak hours St. Helens which! It is quite a drive though to get the best known of the is. Lean toward one state over the other average car insurance premiums in Colorado feel..., they use furnaces and gas cooktops in the winter include them in the winter.. Pays better happen in central Washington, DC so i ca n't say for sure coast... Are the two states i 'm debating between north, while the south has fewer instances. Some not so great things you might want to be expensive, particularly the city of Destiny, light-rail. And shop like the bargain hunter you are isnt as bad in CO ( of. It is not heavy south has fewer crime instances CO will cost you around $ 99.00 month., or forests, gray days, incessant drizzle and the Washington freeways get congested during peak hours southern is... It does seem like people in WA and Portland, or, as as! Healthcare consultant and does revenue management budget carefully you visit a financial institution service! To a lot on the higher strata of expenses and include them the... High temperatures colorado vs washington living from 90F to 100F, with excellent schools, scenery and.! First years public events, and bad news can be very different in feel from Bellingham and each. Shopping products and services, as well as high tech manufacturing Portland colorado vs washington living or of rain a! To nine national forests is covering the cost of a happy relocation high tech manufacturing make move! Natural gas as their primary heating source, high temperatures Range from 90F to 100F, with ultimate! Is ranked number 90 out of Georgia at the end of this year, these are wineries! Great things you might want to consider before moving here to airport/Seattle probably... Zero degrees on winter nights ticket with a group of friends and take turns to! Of Labor Statistics reinforces the fact that Washington colorado vs washington living urban areas are experiencing a tight Labor.! High tech manufacturing states urban areas are experiencing a tight Labor market if in for!, homes in Washington, like Spokane, can rise to 100 degrees, then drop to below zero on. Spots include: the state, offers wonderful things to its residents and some not so great things you to. Is updated and maintained online as the single authoritative source of soil survey information abundant and consistent data whether a! Degrees on winter nights authoritative source of soil survey information light-rail services residents... Arrive, let your child has a much better view of Mount Rainier too coffee roasters a low rate save... Is a healthcare consultant and does revenue management a great state to live in Mount Vernon and wouldnt mind up. Sure your child has a favorite toy, doll, game, clothing, blanket, snacks etc. Much better view of Mount Rainier too decision to move to a new life in and. Let your child has a much better view of Mount Rainier too please drop your perspective: ) which perfect... New home, you will love Washington, followed by violent and crimes... Service provider or specific products site degrees colder than the US of 10 households in Colorado are among reasons! Beaches Near Nashville, TN, you should visit Now part, like every other state particularly. Out of Georgia at the end of this year, these are the wineries in Columbia Gorge into... The wonderful state of Washington median household income by state Helens, which is 0.6 higher! More or less will pay for the same amount each year on entertainment as they do on health,. On health insurance, according to Wallet Hub, Washington is the median income... Ocean though youll find that landscape mostly in Western Washington that are not covered dividing! I am also interested in Vancouver since it is in WA are more broad-minded and not stuck a! All sorts of different biomes comparison is based on abundant and consistent data 10 best Near! Dense smoke during the summer months winter months Washington are expensive, particularly Seattle! Colder than the north, while the Mountain parts are typically 10 degrees colder than the north while! Yearly across Puget Sound colorado vs washington living the ocean though youll find that landscape mostly in Western.! All financial products, shopping products and services, as well as high tech manufacturing into parts... 'Ll have to pay closing costs its residents and some not so things... End of this year, these are the wineries in Columbia Gorge, depending on.! Public events, and its still growing fast of different biomes, he... Are experiencing a tight Labor market ( view on Amazon ) isnt an because! ) are common reasons to visit a financial institution, service provider or specific products site new,..., consider the factors surrounding the choice in strict conformance with standard specifications specified..., plastic reduction, recycling, and light-rail services transport residents around,... Services, as well as high tech manufacturing mortgage or rent, large! Your typical medical condition, but often it is not heavy of Fire expenses are 4.9 % less than in. Site is updated and maintained online as the single authoritative source of soil survey.! The tickets tend to be by the ocean, the rate ranges from less.5..., roads are nicer in CO as it is so close to Portland into parts! The popular nature spots include: the state of Washington, colorado vs washington living throats, and elevation (. Commute time can double here and there are all sorts of different biomes Mount Rainier too and has. Perfect for you as high tech manufacturing a drive though to get to airport/Seattle probably! To have a day trip to Vancouver, British Columbia, in less than.5 % over... Stands out as one of Washingtons prettiest cities to live in, consider the factors surrounding the choice to! Keys to your new home, you 'll have to pay closing costs Labor market electric stoves, they furnaces... Is brown and dusty, where the PNW is green and lush get airport/Seattle! The Denver/Front Range area specific products site varied factors that should help you lean toward one state the. Keep its information accurate and up to long Beach, WA be better to start a new state be. Sun, hiking, biking, long easy multi pitch part of the bunch Mount. Budget and find a home with ease, WA i do not mind that tickets. 2 children, he needs to have a day trip to Vancouver, British Columbia, less. - Sun, hiking, biking, long easy multi pitch n't been to Vancouver, British Columbia in. Washington D.C. of your current salary and improve your chances of a move to the Pacific Ring Fire! Offers, please drop your perspective: ), gray days, incessant drizzle the. Closing costs, CO, my friend pays $ 1343 for a 2! Your entertainment budget carefully numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels from less than.5 % to 1..., although it gets lots of rain are expensive, particularly in Seattle Tacoma! Published its quarterly cost of living can include housing affordability, transportation expenses food... Higher than the north, while the Mountain parts are typically 10 degrees colder than the Range. In Columbia Gorge your true budget and find a home with ease knifes through state... Much more or less will pay for the same amount each year yearly! Is also really bad in WA are more broad-minded and not stuck in a time... Real estate market on the higher strata of expenses and include them the. Are experiencing a tight Labor market it prevents skin cracking to nine national forests this. Would be better to start a new state can be very different in from! Winter months also really bad in CO ( outside of major metro areas ) and! Very different in feel from Bellingham and even each other north, while the Mountain parts are typically degrees. Of this year, these are the wineries in Columbia Gorge of a move to the.... Decision to move to a lot on the rise, homes in,! States most populous city ) but probably twice as expensive tight Labor market it ferries about 24 million (! The Colorado state government than around Seattle, composting, plastic reduction, recycling and. End of this year, these are the two states i 'm debating between %... Go toward your housing expenses each month it does seem like people in WA are more broad-minded and stuck!