Cleveland vs Seattle: cost of living compared
Seattle is 89% more expensive than Cleveland 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
Comparing Cleveland and Seattle reveals a substantial difference in overall cost of living. Cleveland is noticeably more affordable across the board, with its expenses well below the national average. Seattle, in contrast, is considerably more expensive than the national average. This significant gap is primarily driven by housing costs, which are dramatically higher in Seattle, making it the most impactful factor in the overall financial picture.
Housing
Housing costs present the most striking contrast between these two metros. Both buying a home and renting an apartment are substantially more expensive in Seattle than in Cleveland. Cleveland offers a much lower entry point for homeownership and significantly more affordable rental options, often featuring a mix of older, established homes and newer developments. Seattle's housing market demands a much larger financial commitment for both purchase and rent.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses also vary considerably. Cleveland residents generally find transportation, groceries, and healthcare to be more affordable than the national average. Seattle's costs for these categories are all above the national average. Additionally, Ohio has a state income tax, while Washington does not, which can impact take-home pay. Utility costs are roughly similar, though slightly higher in Seattle.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move between these cities means adjusting to different environments. Cleveland experiences distinct four seasons, including cold, snowy winters, and is known for its Great Lakes proximity and generally flatter topography. Seattle's climate is milder, characterized by frequent rain and overcast skies, with a backdrop of mountains and Puget Sound. Seattle also typically has a longer average commute time, reflecting its denser urban character.
Bottom line
For households considering a move, the financial implications are substantial. Relocating to Cleveland from Seattle would likely result in a dramatic reduction in monthly expenses, particularly for housing, freeing up significant funds. Conversely, moving to Seattle from Cleveland would require a much larger budget to maintain a similar standard of living, with housing costs being the primary driver of this increased financial commitment.
| Measure | Cleveland, OH | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 82 | 155 |
| Housing index | 57 | 192 |
| Transportation index | 91 | 123 |
| Food index | 90 | 112 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 112 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 105 |
| Misc index | 82 | 118 |
| Median home price | $188,000 | $748,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $950/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.