Side-by-side comparison of home prices, mortgage payments, and housing costs between Longview and Wenatchee, Washington. Using Washington's 0.98% property tax rate and $1,600/year insurance. Updated for 2026.
Longview edges out Wenatchee in affordability, saving you roughly $757/month on total housing costs. Both cities are in Washington, so property tax rates and insurance costs are the same — the difference comes down to home prices and what you get for your money in each market.
Estimated PITI payments assuming 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed mortgage with PMI. Uses Washington's 0.98% property tax rate.
Buying in Longview saves you approximately $757/month ($9,084/year) compared to Wenatchee, based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Longview is the better choice for first-time buyers, with a median price of $335K versus $445K in Wenatchee. That's $110K less to save for a down payment. You'd need roughly $12K for an FHA 3.5% down payment in Longview, compared to $16K in Wenatchee. Washington offers the WSHFC Home Advantage program (Up to $10,000 DPA) which applies in both cities.
Longview has the better price-to-rent ratio at 22.9x versus 24.4x in Wenatchee. A lower ratio generally signals better rental income relative to purchase price. Average rent in Longview is $1,220/month on a $335K median home, making it a stronger candidate for buy-and-rent investors.
Longview (pop. 39,138) offers more amenities, schools, and services typical of a larger city, while Wenatchee (pop. 34,710) may offer a quieter, more community-oriented lifestyle. Longview offers both more options and lower housing costs, making it attractive for families who want urban amenities without a premium price.