How your housing costs change when you relocate. Based on 2026 data with 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed.
Your housing costs will increase by approximately $1,463 per month ($17,556/year) when you move from Texas to Washington.
If you sell your median-priced Texas home ($310K) and buy in Washington ($580K):
Your Texas equity falls $23K short of a 20% down payment in Washington. You may need additional savings or could consider a lower down payment with PMI.
Over 10 years, this move costs you approximately $176K in housing costs alone.
Housing costs more in Washington. The median home is 47% higher than in Texas — a $270K jump. You may need to adjust your expectations on square footage or location, or come with a larger down payment to keep your monthly costs manageable.
Good news on taxes: Washington's 0.98% property tax rate is significantly lower than Texas's 1.8%. You'll save approximately $-104 per year on property taxes, which adds up to $-1,040 over a decade.
You'll save on insurance moving to Washington: $1,600/year versus $3,800/year in Texas. That's $2,200 less per year in premiums, putting $183 back in your monthly budget.
When you buy in Washington, expect about $8K in closing costs (1.4% of purchase price). This includes a 1.78% transfer tax. Budget for this amount on top of your down payment.
Washington's WSHFC Home Advantage offers Up to $10,000 DPA. If you haven't owned a home in three years (or are buying in Washington for the first time), you may qualify. Check eligibility requirements and income limits on Washington's housing finance agency website.