Free comparison
Moving from California to Washington
A side-by-side comparison drawn from BLS, BEA, Census, FBI, and NOAA. Tech, beaches, mountains, and the country's highest housing costs. vs. Tech (Amazon, MS), no income tax, rainy West side.
California
Capital: Sacramento
Median household income $91,905 · winter low 45°F · 258 sunny days
Tech, beaches, mountains, and the country's highest housing costs.
Washington
Capital: Olympia
Median household income $90,325 · winter low 35°F · 152 sunny days
Tech (Amazon, MS), no income tax, rainy West side.
Washington has an overall price level 107.0 (US avg = 100). Housing dominates the difference.
Summer high 79°F · Winter low 35°F · 152 sunny days/yr.
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Schools, healthcare, taxes, transportation, lifestyle, crime, family fit, move logistics, and a 90-day move timeline.
See the full comparisonFrequently asked
Is it cheaper to live in Washington than California?
Washington's overall price level is roughly 105.8 (US avg = 100), vs about 113 for California, based on BEA Regional Price Parities. Housing is the dominant driver of the difference. Run a comparison for the full, current breakdown.
What's the income tax difference?
California tops out at 13.3% income tax. Washington tops out at 0%.
How long do I have to register my vehicle in Washington?
Most Washington residents must register a vehicle within 30-60 days of moving. Check the piomover report for state-specific deadlines.