Federal Way, WA vs Richland, WA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Richland is 21.1% cheaper than Federal Way. With a cost index of 110 vs 133, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Richland to Federal Way should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Federal Way is $1,738/month compared to $1,397/month in Richland — a 24% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Richland is more affordable at $401,800 median vs $499,600.

Median household income in Federal Way is $82,144 compared to $92,550 in Richland (-11.2%). Richland offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Federal Way spend roughly 25.4% of their income on rent, more than the 18.1% in Richland.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (53.7°F vs 53.3°F). Federal Way receives more rainfall at 39.3" per year compared to 7.6" in Richland.