Ilwaco, WA vs Montesano, WA

Ilwaco, WA and Montesano, WA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.4% difference in their overall index. Ilwaco scores 105 while Montesano scores 101 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Ilwaco is $1,250/month compared to $1,201/month in Montesano — a 4% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Montesano is more affordable at $331,300 median vs $355,400.

Median household income in Ilwaco is $97,541 compared to $65,938 in Montesano (+47.9%). While Ilwaco is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Ilwaco spend roughly 15.4% of their income on rent, less than the 21.9% in Montesano.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (51.4°F vs 51°F). Ilwaco receives more rainfall at 70.3" per year compared to 68.8" in Montesano.