Cost of Living in Chico, WA

With a cost of living index of 141, Chico, WA is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. Living here is 41% more expensive than the national average and 22% above the Washington state average of 119. Chico is a small community of 3,016 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Chico's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,724 (31% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $620,300 (103% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Chico is $124,700, which is 66% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 17% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. While incomes are above average, they more than offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Chico. The area sees an average annual temperature of 53.8°F, with summers averaging 66°F and winters around 43°F. Annual rainfall totals 36.5 inches spread over roughly 154 days.

Everyday prices in the Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard, WA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 5 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.