Cincinnati vs Seattle: cost of living compared
Seattle is 76% more expensive than Cincinnati overall. Seattle (WA) has no state income tax; OH tops out around 3.5%.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Moving between Cincinnati and Seattle presents a substantial shift in financial outlay. Cincinnati's overall cost of living is noticeably lower than the national average, making it a more budget-friendly option. Seattle, in contrast, is significantly more expensive across the board, with its overall costs well above the national benchmark. The most striking difference, and the primary driver of this gap, is housing expenses in both buying and renting markets.
Housing
Housing costs represent the largest divergence. Both median home prices and typical one-bedroom rents are dramatically higher in Seattle compared to Cincinnati. Cincinnati offers a mix of historic and newer housing options, often with more spacious properties for a given budget. Seattle's housing market is characterized by higher density and a premium on space, reflecting its robust demand. Property taxes and insurance costs can also vary, impacting overall ownership expenses.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses also differ considerably. Washington State has no state income tax, which is a notable advantage over Ohio's state income tax. Transportation, food, healthcare, and utilities are all more expensive in Seattle. While Cincinnati's transportation costs are closer to the national average, Seattle's are elevated. This means that everyday spending on groceries, medical care, and keeping the lights on will generally be higher in the Pacific Northwest.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, lifestyle changes are significant. Cincinnati experiences distinct four seasons with warmer summers and colder winters, while Seattle has a milder, wetter climate with less extreme temperature swings. Cincinnati's pace can feel more relaxed, with a traditional Midwestern character. Seattle, a major tech hub, offers a faster pace and a more urban, dense environment, with a greater emphasis on public transit and outdoor activities in its natural surroundings.
Bottom line
A household budget will stretch considerably further in Cincinnati than in Seattle. The substantial difference in housing costs alone means that a move to Seattle would necessitate a much higher income to maintain a similar standard of living. While Seattle offers a different economic landscape and lifestyle, Cincinnati provides a more affordable foundation for everyday expenses and homeownership, making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing cost savings.
| Measure | Cincinnati, OH | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 155 |
| Housing index | 66 | 192 |
| Transportation index | 92 | 123 |
| Food index | 92 | 112 |
| Healthcare index | 95 | 112 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 105 |
| Misc index | 88 | 118 |
| Median home price | $228,000 | $748,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,050/mo | $2,350/mo |
| Average commute | 26 min | 33 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Seattle home with the True Cost Calculator.