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Cost of Living in SeaTac

Is it better to rent or buy in SeaTac? 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.

$78,373
$1,674/mo

Median in area: $1,674

$526,751

Median in area: $526,751

$105,350

If you Rent

$1,810 /mo
Base Rent$1,674
Est. Utilities$136
% of Income27.7%
Pre-tax Residual$4,721

If you Buy

$3,406 /mo
P&I (6.858%)$2,764
Taxes & Ins$506
Est. Utilities$136
% of Income52.1%
Pre-tax Residual$3,126

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in SeaTac?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in SeaTac. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,810, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $3,406 per month (a difference of $1,596).

How much do utilities cost in SeaTac?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in SeaTac is approximately $136. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in SeaTac?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in SeaTac without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $72,400 per year.