Kelso, WA vs Wapato, WA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Wapato is 21.8% cheaper than Kelso. With a cost index of 77 vs 94, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Wapato to Kelso should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Kelso is $1,131/month compared to $931/month in Wapato — a 22% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Wapato is more affordable at $177,600 median vs $302,300.

Median household income in Kelso is $59,462 compared to $51,341 in Wapato (+15.8%). The higher salaries in Kelso partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Kelso spend roughly 22.8% of their income on rent, more than the 21.8% in Wapato.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (53°F vs 50.8°F). Kelso receives more rainfall at 42.3" per year compared to 8" in Wapato.