Renton, WA vs Spokane, WA

The cost of living difference between Renton, WA and Spokane, WA is dramatic. Spokane is 54.7% cheaper than Renton, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Renton has a cost index of 150 while Spokane sits at 97, 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 Renton is $1,923/month compared to $1,141/month in Spokane — a 69% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Spokane is more affordable at $326,200 median vs $631,400.

Median household income in Renton is $96,626 compared to $65,745 in Spokane (+47%). The higher salaries in Renton partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Renton spend roughly 23.9% of their income on rent, more than the 20.8% in Spokane.

Climate-wise, Renton is notably warmer with an average of 53.6°F compared to 49.8°F in Spokane. Renton receives more rainfall at 34.7" per year compared to 17.4" in Spokane.