Freeland, WA vs South Cle Elum, WA
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. South Cle Elum is 16% cheaper than Freeland. With a cost index of 104 vs 121, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from South Cle Elum to Freeland should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Freeland is $1,424/month compared to $1,193/month in South Cle Elum — a 19% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: South Cle Elum is more affordable at $375,000 median vs $493,400.
Median household income in Freeland is $90,945 compared to $60,268 in South Cle Elum (+50.9%). While Freeland is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Freeland spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, less than the 23.8% in South Cle Elum.
Climate-wise, Freeland is notably warmer with an average of 51.4°F compared to 42.4°F in South Cle Elum. South Cle Elum receives more rainfall at 85" per year compared to 33.4" in Freeland.
Income & Cost
Housing
Salary Equivalency Calculator
What does your salary in one city buy you in the other?
Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)