Gig Harbor, WA vs University Place, WA
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. University Place is 16% cheaper than Gig Harbor. With a cost index of 137 vs 159, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from University Place to Gig Harbor should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Gig Harbor is $2,097/month compared to $1,664/month in University Place — a 26% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: University Place is more affordable at $578,100 median vs $686,000.
Median household income in Gig Harbor is $106,042 compared to $94,952 in University Place (+11.7%). The higher salaries in Gig Harbor partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Gig Harbor spend roughly 23.7% of their income on rent, more than the 21% in University Place.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (51.9°F vs 51.9°F). University Place receives more rainfall at 42" per year compared to 42" in Gig Harbor.
Income & Cost
Housing
Salary Equivalency Calculator
What does your salary in one city buy you in the other?
Everyday Prices
BLS Average Prices by metro area
Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)