Bothell, WA vs Ellensburg, WA

The cost of living difference between Bothell, WA and Ellensburg, WA is dramatic. Ellensburg is 72% cheaper than Bothell, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Bothell has a cost index of 181 while Ellensburg sits at 105, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Bothell is $2,295/month compared to $1,258/month in Ellensburg — a 82% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ellensburg is more affordable at $357,800 median vs $871,300.

Median household income in Bothell is $132,232 compared to $49,888 in Ellensburg (+165.1%). While Bothell is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Bothell spend roughly 20.8% of their income on rent, less than the 30.3% in Ellensburg. The Bothell ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, Bothell is notably warmer with an average of 53.2°F compared to 50.1°F in Ellensburg. Bothell receives more rainfall at 37.8" per year compared to 9.2" in Ellensburg.