Federal Way, WA vs Tacoma, WA

Tacoma is moderately more affordable than Federal Way, with a 6.4% lower cost of living index. Federal Way scores 133 compared to 125 for Tacoma, 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 $1,597/month in Tacoma — a 9% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Tacoma is more affordable at $454,600 median vs $499,600.

Median household income in Federal Way is $82,144 compared to $83,857 in Tacoma (-2%). Tacoma 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 22.9% in Tacoma.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (53.7°F vs 51.9°F). Tacoma receives more rainfall at 42" per year compared to 39.3" in Federal Way.