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Cost of Living in Marietta-Alderwood

Is it better to rent or buy in Marietta-Alderwood? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$68,934
$1,430/mo

Median in area: $1,430

$560,236

Median in area: $560,236

$112,047

If you Rent

$1,538 /mo
Base Rent$1,430
Est. Utilities$108
% of Income26.8%
Pre-tax Residual$4,207

If you Buy

$3,476 /mo
P&I (6.858%)$2,939
Taxes & Ins$429
Est. Utilities$108
% of Income60.5%
Pre-tax Residual$2,268

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Marietta-Alderwood?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Marietta-Alderwood. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,538, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $3,476 per month (a difference of $1,938).

How much do utilities cost in Marietta-Alderwood?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Marietta-Alderwood is approximately $108. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Marietta-Alderwood?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Marietta-Alderwood without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $61,520 per year.