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United States

Cost of Living in Seattle

Find out if you can afford to live in Seattle. Calculate your expenses for rent, food, transport & more. Get a personalized affordability report.

$2,200
Rent
$520
Food
$100
Transport
$150
Utilities

Cost Breakdown in Seattle

Rent Analysis

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center of Seattle is approximately $2,200 per month.

$2,200
average monthly rent

Salary Comparison

See how your salary stacks up against the cost of living in Seattle.

Recommended salary
$8,800
monthly before tax

Total Monthly Cost

Average lifestyle, single person

$2,970/mo

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Cost of Living Calculator

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Adults
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Children
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Tips to Save Money in Seattle

Consider living slightly outside the city center to save 20-40% on rent.

Cook at home and use local markets for fresh, affordable produce.

Use public transportation instead of ride-sharing services.

Look for shared housing or co-living spaces to reduce costs.

Take advantage of free cultural events and outdoor activities.

🏥 Healthcare in Seattle

Seattle offers both public and private healthcare options for residents and expats. Private health insurance typically costs between $50–$150/month and provides comprehensive coverage including doctor visits, specialist consultations, and emergency care. Many international workers opt for private insurance to ensure faster access to English-speaking doctors.

🌐 Internet & Coworking in Seattle

Seattle has reliable high-speed internet with average speeds of 50–200 Mbps. Home broadband typically costs $30–$60/month. For digital nomads and remote workers, coworking spaces range from $100–$300/month for a hot desk. Many cafés also offer strong WiFi, making Seattle a productive base for remote work.

🛂 Visa & Immigration for Seattle

Visa requirements for Seattle depend on your nationality and purpose of stay. Many countries now offer digital nomad visas for remote workers with minimum income requirements. Always check the latest immigration rules for United States before planning your move. Consider consulting an immigration specialist for personalized advice.

🔒 Safety in Seattle

Seattle is generally considered safe for expats and tourists. As with any major city, exercise standard precautions: be aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep valuables secure. Petty theft (pickpocketing) can occur in tourist areas, so stay vigilant in crowded spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of living in Seattle?
The average monthly cost of living in Seattle for a single person is approximately $2,970, including rent, food, transport, and utilities.
Is Seattle expensive to live in?
With a cost index of 1.45, Seattle is more expensive than average compared to other major cities worldwide.
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Seattle?
To live comfortably in Seattle, you would need a monthly salary of at least $8,800 before tax.
How much is rent in Seattle?
The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Seattle's city center is approximately $2,200 per month.
What do software engineers earn in Seattle?
Software engineers in Seattle earn an estimated $11,210 gross per month (approximately $8,183 after tax). This is based on a US median of $9,500/mo scaled by Seattle's cost-of-living index (1.45x).
What are the highest-paying jobs in Seattle?
The highest-paying jobs in Seattle include Doctor/Physician (~$18,880/mo), Surgeon (~$25,960/mo), Investment Banker (~$14,160/mo), Software Engineer (~$11,210/mo), and Dentist (~$15,340/mo). All figures are gross monthly estimates adjusted for local cost of living.
Is Seattle a good place for digital nomads?
Seattle attracts digital nomads with its vibrant expat community and modern coworking spaces. With monthly living costs around $2,970, it suits remote workers with higher income levels.
How much does food cost per month in Seattle?
A single person spending an average on food in Seattle can expect to pay around $520 per month. This includes groceries for home cooking and occasional restaurant meals. Eating out frequently at mid-range restaurants can push this figure higher.
What are the transport costs in Seattle?
Monthly transport costs in Seattle average around $100 per person. This typically covers a monthly transit pass or equivalent commuting expenses. Owning a car will significantly increase this figure due to insurance, fuel, and parking.
How much are utilities in Seattle?
Monthly utility bills (electricity, heating/cooling, water, and garbage) in Seattle average $150 for a standard apartment. Costs vary seasonally — expect higher bills in winter or summer depending on the climate.
What is the tax rate in Seattle?
The effective income tax rate for a mid-income earner in United States is approximately 27%. This is a simplified estimate — actual rates depend on your specific income level, filing status, and any applicable deductions or credits. Consult a local tax advisor for personalized guidance.
How does Seattle compare to other cities for cost of living?
Seattle has a cost-of-living index of 1.45x the US average. It ranks among the more expensive global cities, comparable to other high-cost metropolitan areas.

Job Salaries in Seattle

Estimated gross monthly salaries for popular professions in Seattle, adjusted for local cost of living (index: 1.45x US average).

Software Engineer
$11,210
gross/mo
Data Scientist
$10,620
gross/mo
Doctor / Physician
$18,880
gross/mo
Nurse
$7,670
gross/mo
Financial Analyst
$8,260
gross/mo
Teacher
$5,664
gross/mo
Marketing Manager
$7,670
gross/mo
Civil Engineer
$8,260
gross/mo

* Estimates are based on US median salaries adjusted for Seattle's cost index. Actual salaries vary by employer, experience, and industry. Use the search below to find real open positions.

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Help others planning to move to Seattle

Data Methodology: Cost of living data is based on crowdsourced statistics and government sources including Numbeo, OECD, and national statistics offices as of 2026. Actual costs may vary based on lifestyle, neighborhood, and personal circumstances. Salary estimates are derived from US median salaries adjusted by local cost-of-living indices. This tool is for informational purposes and should not be used as the sole basis for financial decisions. Learn more about our methodology →

Last updated: May 2026

Seattle · $2,970/mo

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