Washington State presents one of the sharpest affordability divides in the country. On one side, the Puget Sound region—Seattle, Bellevue, and their suburbs—commands some of the highest housing costs in the U.S. On the other, Eastern Washington and parts of Southwestern Washington offer remarkably low prices, sunny climates, and small‑town charm. By examining median home values, rental costs, and cost‑of‑living indices, this list highlights 50 cities and towns where residents can stretch their budgets while still enjoying the Pacific Northwest lifestyle.

Top 50 Cheapest Cities To Live In Washington

Eastern Washington (Columbia Basin & Palouse)

1. Yakima

Yakima, the largest city in Central Washington, is known for its wine country and agricultural base. Housing costs are among the lowest for a city of its size in the state, and rents remain manageable. Residents enjoy access to orchards, vineyards, and nearby mountain recreation. While economic challenges exist, Yakima offers full amenities, healthcare, and cultural events. Its affordability, combined with scenic surroundings and a growing food and wine scene, makes it a practical choice for families and retirees.

2. Kennewick / Pasco / Richland (Tri‑Cities)

The Tri‑Cities metro is one of Washington’s fastest‑growing yet still affordable regions. Anchored by agriculture, Hanford’s legacy, and a booming wine industry, the area offers low housing costs compared to Puget Sound. Residents benefit from riverfront recreation, healthcare, and strong schools. While growth brings traffic, the Tri‑Cities balance affordability with amenities, making them attractive for families, professionals, and retirees. Their sunny climate and expanding economy ensure a high quality of life at a fraction of Seattle’s cost.

3. Wenatchee

Wenatchee, the “Apple Capital of the World,” sits on the Columbia River and offers affordable housing with stunning natural surroundings. The city provides full amenities, healthcare, and schools, while maintaining a small‑city atmosphere. Outdoor recreation is abundant, with access to the Cascades and riverfront trails. Housing costs are lower than Puget Sound, making Wenatchee appealing for families and retirees. Its blend of affordability, agriculture, and scenic beauty ensures a balanced lifestyle in one of Washington’s most charming towns.

4. Moses Lake

Moses Lake, located in the Columbia Basin, is a growing city with affordable housing and a strong agricultural and manufacturing base. The large namesake lake offers boating, fishing, and recreation. Housing costs are low compared to state averages, and the community provides schools, healthcare, and shopping. While job opportunities are tied to agriculture and industry, Moses Lake’s affordability and amenities make it appealing for families and retirees. Its blend of affordability, outdoor recreation, and economic stability ensures a practical lifestyle.

5. Walla Walla

Walla Walla, famous for its world‑class wine industry, combines affordability with cultural richness. The city offers a charming downtown, Whitman College, and strong community spirit. Housing costs are lower than Puget Sound, though slightly higher than nearby towns. Residents enjoy outdoor recreation, festivals, and a vibrant arts scene. While employment is tied to agriculture, wine, and education, Walla Walla’s affordability and cultural appeal make it attractive for families, retirees, and professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle in southeastern Washington.

6. Ellensburg

Ellensburg, home to Central Washington University, offers affordable housing and a lively college‑town atmosphere. The city is known for its annual rodeo, historic downtown, and proximity to outdoor recreation. Housing costs are lower than Puget Sound, making it appealing for students, families, and retirees. While employment is tied to education and local commerce, Ellensburg’s affordability and cultural vibrancy provide a balanced lifestyle. Its blend of affordability, education, and community spirit ensures a practical choice in Central Washington.

7. Pullman

Pullman, located in the rolling Palouse hills, is home to Washington State University. The city offers affordable housing and a vibrant college‑town atmosphere. Residents benefit from cultural events, sports, and education, while enjoying scenic surroundings. Housing costs are lower than Puget Sound, making Pullman appealing for students, families, and retirees. While employment is tied to education and agriculture, Pullman’s affordability and community spirit provide a balanced lifestyle. Its blend of affordability, education, and rural charm ensures a practical choice in Eastern Washington.

8. Othello / Quincy / Ephrata

These Central Basin farming communities offer some of the lowest housing costs in Washington. Residents enjoy small‑town living with essential services, schools, and healthcare. Housing prices are very affordable, making them attractive for families and retirees. While employment is tied to agriculture and food production, these towns provide a strong sense of community and rural charm. Their affordability, combined with access to outdoor recreation and scenic surroundings, ensures a practical lifestyle in one of Washington’s most budget‑friendly regions.

9. Grand Coulee

Grand Coulee, located near the massive Grand Coulee Dam, offers affordable housing and a strong sense of community. The town provides essential services, schools, and healthcare, while maintaining a rural atmosphere. Housing costs are low compared to state averages, making it attractive for families and retirees. Outdoor recreation opportunities abound, with access to lakes and trails. While employment is tied to energy and tourism, Grand Coulee’s affordability and scenic surroundings ensure a practical lifestyle in one of Washington’s most unique towns.

10. Ritzville

Ritzville, a historic wheat town along I‑90, offers very affordable housing and a quiet lifestyle. The community provides essential services, schools, and healthcare, while maintaining a rural character. Housing costs are among the lowest in the state, making Ritzville appealing for families and retirees. While job opportunities are modest, Ritzville’s affordability and community spirit make it attractive for budget‑conscious households. Its blend of history, rural charm, and affordability ensures a practical lifestyle in one of Washington’s most budget‑friendly towns.

Rank	City / Town	Region	Key Notes
1	Yakima	Eastern WA	Largest city in Eastern WA, wine country hub
2	Kennewick / Pasco / Richland	Eastern WA (Tri-Cities)	Growing metro, Hanford, agriculture, riverfront
3	Wenatchee	Eastern WA	Apple Capital, Columbia River gateway
4	Moses Lake	Eastern WA	Agriculture, manufacturing, excellent value
5	Walla Walla	Eastern WA	Wine destination, Whitman College, charming downtown
6	Ellensburg	Eastern WA	Central WA University, rodeo, college town
7	Pullman	Eastern WA	Washington State University, vibrant college town
8	Othello / Quincy / Ephrata	Eastern WA	Central Basin farming towns, very low costs
9	Grand Coulee	Eastern WA	Near Grand Coulee Dam
10	Ritzville	Eastern WA	Historic wheat town on I-90
11	Colfax	Eastern WA	Palouse County seat, rural and affordable
12	Clarkston	Eastern WA	Snake River town, low cost, great fishing/boating
13	Dayton	Eastern WA	Historic town in the Blue Mountains
14	Pomeroy	Eastern WA	Garfield County seat, very remote and affordable
15	Chewelah	Eastern WA	Northeast WA, near skiing and lakes
16	Longview	Southwestern WA	Industrial city on the Columbia River
17	Kelso	Southwestern WA	Adjacent to Longview
18	Centralia / Chehalis	Southwestern WA	I-5/SR-12 junction, affordable
19	Aberdeen / Hoquiam	Southwestern WA	Coastal timber/fishing towns, rainy
20	Raymond / South Bend	Southwestern WA	Willapa Bay communities, oysters
21	Castle Rock	Southwestern WA	Near Mount St. Helens, rural
22	Stevenson	Southwestern WA	Columbia River Gorge, tourism-adjacent
23	White Salmon	Southwestern WA	Across from Hood River, Oregon
24	Omak / Okanogan	North Central WA	Palouse/Okanogan Valley, Wild West feel
25	Tonasket	North Central WA	Northern Okanogan County, rural
26	Brewster	North Central WA	Fruit-growing Columbia River area
27	Twisp / Winthrop	North Central WA	Methow Valley, outdoor recreation
28	Republic	North Central WA	Ferry County seat, remote and very low-cost
29	Colville	North Central WA	Stevens County seat, foothills of Selkirk Mtns
30	Port Angeles	Olympic Peninsula	Gateway to Olympic NP, scenic, affordable
31	Forks	Olympic Peninsula	Timber town, wet, very affordable
32	Port Townsend	Olympic Peninsula	Victorian seaport, arts scene, outskirts affordable
33	Sequim	Olympic Peninsula	Rain shadow, sunnier, popular with retirees
34	Shelton	Olympic Peninsula	Mason County seat, timber town
35	Ocean Shores / Westport	Olympic Peninsula	Coastal tourist towns, off-season affordable
36	Cle Elum / Roslyn	Central WA	Historic mining towns, mountain recreation
37	Ellensburg	Central WA	Eastern/Central WA divide, affordable
38	Goldendale	Central WA	Columbia Hills, observatory, rural
39	Tacoma	Puget Sound	Affordable alternative to Seattle, urban amenities
40	Everett	Puget Sound	Boeing, north of Seattle, some value pockets
41	Bremerton / Port Orchard	Puget Sound	Kitsap Peninsula, ferry-accessible, affordable
42	Mount Vernon / Burlington	Puget Sound	Skagit Valley hubs, north of Seattle
43	Olympia	Puget Sound	Capital, some affordable outskirts
44	Puyallup / Sumner	Puget Sound	South Tacoma suburbs, some relative value
45	Lakewood / Parkland	Puget Sound	South Tacoma areas, affordable housing
46	Arlington / Marysville	Puget Sound	North of Everett, growing exurbs
47	Shelton	Puget Sound	Longer commute to Olympia/Tacoma, low cost
48	Renton	Puget Sound	South of Seattle, industrial history, affordable neighborhoods
49	Auburn	Puget Sound	Between Seattle/Tacoma, diverse, some affordable pockets
50	Des Moines / Federal Way	Puget Sound	South King County, more square footage for the money

Closing

Affordability in Washington is shaped by geography, climate, and economic base. Eastern Washington’s agricultural towns and college communities provide rock‑bottom housing costs but face challenges like wildfire smoke and water rights. Southwestern timber and fishing towns remain inexpensive but often rainy and remote. Puget Sound “value pockets” offer relative affordability within commuting distance of Seattle and Tacoma, though costs are still high by national standards. For the best balance of low cost and amenities, focus on hubs like Yakima, the Tri‑Cities, and Port Angeles. Ultimately, the right choice depends on whether you value sunshine, coastal scenery, or proximity to jobs.