Port Orchard, WA vs Rochester, WA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Rochester is 24.8% cheaper than Port Orchard. With a cost index of 105 vs 131, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Rochester to Port Orchard should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Port Orchard is $1,760/month compared to $1,182/month in Rochester — a 49% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Rochester is more affordable at $391,600 median vs $492,000.

Median household income in Port Orchard is $81,472 compared to $94,754 in Rochester (-14%). Rochester offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Port Orchard spend roughly 25.9% of their income on rent, more than the 15% in Rochester.

Climate-wise, Port Orchard is notably warmer with an average of 53.8°F compared to 50.5°F in Rochester. Rochester receives more rainfall at 50.6" per year compared to 36.5" in Port Orchard.