Get & compare mortgage quotes anonymously Start in My Home

Safe Rate Local

Cost of Living in Mountlake Terrace

Is it better to rent or buy in Mountlake Terrace? 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.

$109,257
$2,014/mo

Median in area: $2,014

$681,785

Median in area: $681,785

$136,357

If you Rent

$2,131 /mo
Base Rent$2,014
Est. Utilities$117
% of Income23.4%
Pre-tax Residual$6,974

If you Buy

$4,160 /mo
P&I (6.838%)$3,570
Taxes & Ins$473
Est. Utilities$117
% of Income45.7%
Pre-tax Residual$4,945

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Mountlake Terrace?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Mountlake Terrace. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $2,131, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $4,160 per month (a difference of $2,029).

How much do utilities cost in Mountlake Terrace?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Mountlake Terrace is approximately $117. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Mountlake Terrace?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Mountlake Terrace without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $85,240 per year.