Cost of Living in Ocean Shores, WA

With a cost of living index of 104, Ocean Shores, WA is somewhat more expensive than average. Living here is 4% more expensive than the national average and 15% below the Washington state average of 119. Ocean Shores is a smaller community of 7,076 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Ocean Shores's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,177 (11% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $378,000 (24% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 6x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Ocean Shores is $62,750, which is 16% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 23% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Ocean Shores. The area sees an average annual temperature of 51°F, with summers averaging 59°F and winters around 43°F. Annual rainfall totals 68.8 inches spread over roughly 190 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.