Kelso, WA vs University Place, WA

The cost of living difference between Kelso, WA and University Place, WA is dramatic. Kelso is 31.7% cheaper than University Place, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Kelso has a cost index of 94 while University Place sits at 137, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Kelso is $1,131/month compared to $1,664/month in University Place — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Kelso is more affordable at $302,300 median vs $578,100.

Median household income in Kelso is $59,462 compared to $94,952 in University Place (-37.4%). While University Place is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Kelso spend roughly 22.8% of their income on rent, more than the 21% in University Place.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (53°F vs 51.9°F). Kelso receives more rainfall at 42.3" per year compared to 42" in University Place.