Federal Way, WA vs Olympia, WA

Olympia is moderately more affordable than Federal Way, with a 10.5% lower cost of living index. Federal Way scores 133 compared to 121 for Olympia, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Federal Way can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Federal Way is $1,738/month compared to $1,509/month in Olympia — a 15% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Olympia is more affordable at $457,900 median vs $499,600.

Median household income in Federal Way is $82,144 compared to $76,930 in Olympia (+6.8%). The higher salaries in Federal Way partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Federal Way spend roughly 25.4% of their income on rent, more than the 23.5% in Olympia.

Climate-wise, Federal Way is notably warmer with an average of 53.7°F compared to 50.5°F in Olympia. Olympia receives more rainfall at 50.6" per year compared to 39.3" in Federal Way.