Side-by-side comparison of home prices, mortgage payments, and housing costs between Seattle and Spokane, Washington. Using Washington's 0.98% property tax rate and $1,600/year insurance. Updated for 2026.
Spokane is significantly more affordable than Seattle, with homes priced 56% lower on average. That translates to $3,165/month in savings on your total housing payment. For budget-conscious buyers in Washington, Spokane offers a much more accessible path to homeownership.
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 Spokane saves you approximately $3,165/month ($37,980/year) compared to Seattle, based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Spokane is the better choice for first-time buyers, with a median price of $365K versus $825K in Seattle. That's $460K less to save for a down payment. You'd need roughly $13K for an FHA 3.5% down payment in Spokane, compared to $29K in Seattle. Washington offers the WSHFC Home Advantage program (Up to $10,000 DPA) which applies in both cities.
Spokane has the better price-to-rent ratio at 22.5x versus 28.1x in Seattle. A lower ratio generally signals better rental income relative to purchase price. Average rent in Spokane is $1,350/month on a $365K median home, making it a stronger candidate for buy-and-rent investors.
Seattle (pop. 737,015) offers more amenities, schools, and services typical of a larger city, while Spokane (pop. 228,989) may offer a quieter, more community-oriented lifestyle. Families on a budget may prefer Spokane, where lower housing costs free up more income for childcare, education, and savings.