Cost of Living in Sprague, WA

With a cost of living index of 69, Sprague, WA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 31% cheaper than the national average and 50% below the Washington state average of 119. Sprague is a small community of 619 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Sprague's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $800 (39% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $112,500 (63% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.7x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Sprague is $66,500, which is 12% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 14% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. 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 Sprague. The area sees an average annual temperature of 45°F, with summers averaging 62°F and winters around 29°F. Annual rainfall totals 18.3 inches spread over roughly 115 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Spokane-Spokane Valley, 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.