Ellensburg, WA vs Pacific, WA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Ellensburg is 17.7% cheaper than Pacific. With a cost index of 105 vs 128, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Ellensburg to Pacific should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Ellensburg is $1,258/month compared to $1,722/month in Pacific — a 27% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ellensburg is more affordable at $357,800 median vs $437,400.

Median household income in Ellensburg is $49,888 compared to $102,976 in Pacific (-51.6%). While Pacific is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Ellensburg spend roughly 30.3% of their income on rent, more than the 20.1% in Pacific. The Pacific ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, Pacific is notably warmer with an average of 53.7°F compared to 50.1°F in Ellensburg. Pacific receives more rainfall at 39.3" per year compared to 9.2" in Ellensburg.