West · Washington

Budgeting in Seattle, WA

Average costs, local spending context and practical budgeting tips for Seattle households.

General guidance only. Figures are approximate averages — not advice. Always budget from your own real income and costs.

Monthly cost snapshot: Seattle

Avg 1-bed monthly rent

$2,300

Seattle approximate market average

Monthly groceries (single person)

$490

Approximate monthly estimate

Monthly transport

$120

Transit pass or car estimate

Mid-range monthly budget

$4,000

Single person · all-in estimate

What to know about Seattle

No state income tax. Strong tech-sector wages. Link Light Rail expanding city-wide.

Budget ranges for Seattle

Tight budget

Minimal discretionary spend, shared housing or subsidized rent

$2,500/mo

Comfortable budget

Private 1-bed rental, regular groceries, some dining out

$4,000/mo

Higher spend

Premium rental, car ownership, active social spending

$6,800/mo

Estimates based on Numbeo, MIT Living Wage Calculator and BLS CES data. Individual circumstances vary significantly.

MIT Living Wage estimate

$26.00/hr

Estimated living wage for a single adult in Seattle, WA — the hourly rate needed to cover basic costs without public assistance. Source: MIT Living Wage Calculator (approximate). General context only.

MIT Living Wage Calculator ↗

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