Cost of Living in Sumas, WA

With a cost of living index of 96, Sumas, WA is slightly more affordable than average. Living here is 4% cheaper than the national average and 23% below the Washington state average of 119. Sumas is a small community of 1,384 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Sumas's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $997 (24% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $362,000 (19% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.2x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Sumas is $86,500, which is 15% higher 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.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Sumas. The area sees an average annual temperature of 51.2°F, with summers averaging 63°F and winters around 41°F. Annual rainfall totals 34.7 inches spread over roughly 169 days.

Everyday prices in the Bellingham, 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.