Cost of Living in Goldendale, WA

With a cost of living index of 80, Goldendale, WA is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 20% cheaper than the national average and 39% below the Washington state average of 119. Goldendale is a small community of 3,458 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Goldendale's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $892 (32% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $194,100 (36% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.7x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Goldendale is $41,621, which is 45% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 26% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Goldendale. The area sees an average annual temperature of 54.4°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 38°F. Annual rainfall totals 13.7 inches spread over roughly 96 days.

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.