The Most Affordable Cities in Washington

Washington is truly a nature lover’s paradise. It is often referred to as the Evergreen State and has some of the best majestic scenery in the country. From mountains and forests to rivers and waterfalls, Washington would be the perfect state to call home.

NewHomeSource has compiled a list of the top 10 most affordable cities in Washington to help you find a new home at a great price.

10 Most Affordable Cities:

1. Sunnyside

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.02%

Average Property Tax: $1,359

Median Household Income: $42,780

The most affordable city in the state is Sunnyside. The city has more than 300 days of sunshine every year hence its name. The town is surrounded by lush green mountains and has an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. From enjoying a sunny day in the park to tasting local wine from the Rattlesnake Hills, Sunnyside has activities for all.

2. Grandview

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.93%

Average Property Tax: $2,692

Median Household Income: $37,012

Grandview is a small town located in the south-central part of Washington. It is surrounded by the snowcapped Mount Rainier and Mount Adams and there’s no shortage of opportunities for outdoor fun. From hiking and biking to swimming and boating, the activities in Grandview are endless. Folks looking for a small town immersed in nature must come to Grandview.

3. Moses Lake

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.21%

Average Property Tax: $1,779

Median Household Income: $51,272

Moses Lake boasts more than 120 miles of shoreline and has some of the best recreational hot spots in the region. The city also borders the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge which is home to a variety of animals. Besides the expansive outdoor activities in Moses Lake, there is also a Museum and Art Center, a Centennial Theater, and many opportunities for Fine Dining.

4. Kelso

Home Price to Income Ratio: 4.42%

Average Property Tax: $3,471

Median Household Income: $33,492

The small town of Kelso is located on the Washington Oregon border. It is known as a gateway town to the famous Mount St. Helens volcano. In Kelso, there are a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking through the spectacular mountains and forests in the shadow of Mount St. Helens, horseback riding along the Sheep Canyon Trail, and even skiing and snowmobiling at Marble Mountain Sno-Park. 

5. Cheney

Home Price to Income Ratio: 7.22%

Average Property Tax: $4,295

Median Household Income: $28,194

Cheney is known for its small-town ambiance and family-friendly environment. The town is home to Eastern Washington University which has helped shape Cheney into the quaint city that it is today. Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, Fish Lake Regional Park, Cheney Farmers Market, and Eagle’s Pub are a few favorite spots amongst locals.

6. Spokane

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.73%

Average Property Tax: $2,157

Median Household Income: $50,306

Spokane experiences all four seasons and has many activities for indoor and outdoor lovers. Folks who enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing will think they have struck gold in Spokane; five ski resorts are located within two hours of downtown. In addition to museums, there are many venues where you can listen to live music and feast on delicious cuisines.

7. Yakima

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.85%

Average Property Tax: $1,817

Median Household Income: $44,950

Attention wine lovers! There are over 120 wineries in Yakima Valley –  one of the Pacific Northwest’s most fertile growing regions. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy Cowiche Canyon Trail, Yakima River Canyon, White Pass Ski Resort, and Mount Rainier National Park, as well as some of the best outdoor spots in and near Yakima.

8. Pasco

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.18%

Average Property Tax: $2,253

Median Household Income: $62,775

Pasco is another city in Washington that is bathed in more than 300 days of sunshine annually. This means it is a haven for those who love outdoor activities like hiking, soccer, baseball, and swimming. Be sure to check out the 15 miles of paved trails overlooking the stunning Columbia River, which you can access from Sacajawea Historical State Park.

9. Walla Walla

Home Price to Income Ratio: 4.03%

Average Property Tax: $2,320

Median Household Income: $50,550

Folks looking for a city brimming with nature will fall in love with Walla Walla. From mountains and rivers to viewpoints and trails, the outdoor activities in Walla Walla are endless. Gather some friends and head to the historic downtown district, which has plenty of restaurants, boutiques, cafes, and live music. Walla Walla would be the perfect place to call home.

10. Shelton

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.98%

Average Property Tax: $3,139

Median Household Income: $40,833

Shelton offers locals a wide range of recreational activities. Nearly surrounded by water, it offers freshwater lakes for boating and fishing, as well as endless hiking trails at the famous Olympic National Park. Quinault Rain Forest, Lake Quinault, and Olympic National Park are three breathtaking spots to enjoy the peaceful outdoors in Shelton.

Cities with the Best Home Price to Income Ratio

While the list above is sorted by the lowest overall cost of living index, the following cities have the lowest home price to income ratio, meaning you can get more home for your money.

1. West Richland
   • West Richland is located on the Yakima River and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, sailing and more. It is also home to more than 200 wineries that produce some of the best wines in the United States.
2. Aberdeen
   • Aberdeen is located in the western part of the state. It is known as the gateway to Washington’s picturesque Olympic Peninsula and also has a beautiful beachfront.
3. Sunnyside