Seattle vs Jacksonville: cost of living compared
Jacksonville is 39% cheaper than Seattle overall. Neither WA nor FL has a state income tax.
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 Seattle and Jacksonville presents a substantial shift in overall cost of living. Seattle is noticeably more expensive across the board, with housing costs being the most significant differentiator. While many everyday expenses are also higher in Seattle, the difference in shelter costs creates a much bigger gap in the total household budget. Jacksonville offers a considerably more affordable environment for residents.
Housing
Housing costs are dramatically different between these two metros. Both buying and renting are substantially more expensive in Seattle. Jacksonville offers a much lower median home price and more affordable rents. However, Florida homeowners should factor in potentially higher insurance premiums, including flood insurance, and be aware of property taxes resetting to market value upon sale. Many newer communities in Jacksonville also include HOA or CDD fees.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses, beyond housing, also show a clear difference. Transportation, food, and healthcare costs are all higher in Seattle, while utilities are roughly similar in both locations. Neither state levies a personal income tax, which is a consistent benefit. Overall, routine spending on necessities and services will be notably less expensive in Jacksonville compared to Seattle, easing the burden on a household budget.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move involves significant lifestyle changes. Seattle is known for its mild, often rainy climate and dense urban character, with a robust public transit system. Jacksonville, in contrast, offers a warmer, sunnier climate and a more car-dependent, sprawling layout typical of many Southern cities. While Seattle faces fewer natural disaster risks, Jacksonville is in a hurricane-prone region, requiring preparedness during summer and fall months.
Bottom line
For households considering a move, the financial implications are clear: Jacksonville offers a considerably lower cost of living than Seattle. The most impactful savings will likely come from housing, but nearly all other categories of spending, from groceries to transportation, will also be more affordable. While climate and urban density differ, the overall financial picture strongly favors Jacksonville for budget-conscious movers.
| Measure | Seattle, WA | Jacksonville, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 155 | 95 |
| Housing index | 192 | 91 |
| Transportation index | 123 | 96 |
| Food index | 112 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 112 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 105 | 105 |
| Misc index | 118 | 88 |
| Median home price | $748,000 | $318,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $2,350/mo | $1,400/mo |
| Average commute | 33 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Jacksonville home with the True Cost Calculator.