Cost of Living in Ellensburg, WA
2026 data for Ellensburg, WA • Population: 21,230
2% less expensive than the US average (100)
1-Bedroom Rent
Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment
2-Bedroom Rent
Average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment
Median Income
Median household income in Ellensburg
Population
Estimated population of Ellensburg
How Far Does Your Salary Go?
A salary in Ellensburg has different purchasing power than the national average. Use the equivalence below to understand what your salary is worth compared to the US average.
Formula: Your salary in Ellensburg ÷ COL index × 100 = equivalent national salary. A $51,020 national salary gives you the same purchasing power as $50,000 in Ellensburg.
Housing Affordability Analysis
Rent as % of Income
For a 1-bedroom apartment at median income. Experts suggest under 30% is affordable.
Monthly Rent to Income
Ratio of monthly income to monthly 1-bedroom rent.
What is a Cost of Living Index?
A cost of living index measures the relative cost of goods and services in a city compared to a national baseline (set at 100). An index of 150 means the city is 50% more expensive than average. An index of 80 means it's 20% cheaper than average.
The index typically includes housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare—the major expense categories for households.
Compare with Other Cities
See how Ellensburg's cost of living stacks up against nearby and similar cities.
Financial Tools to Explore
Use these Pulsafi calculators to plan your finances based on Ellensburg's cost of living.
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Cost of Living Guide for Ellensburg, WA
Overview
Ellensburg has a cost of living index of 98, making it 2% less expensive than the national average. With a population of 21,230 and a median household income of $38,234, understanding the true cost of living here is essential for financial planning.
Housing Market
The housing market in Ellensburg reflects its cost of living index. A one-bedroom apartment averages $1,050 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs approximately $1,300 per month. For renters, this typically consumes 33.0% of the median household income—above the recommended 30% threshold.
Income and Affordability
With a median household income of $38,234, Ellensburg residents earn slightly below the national median. When factoring in the local cost of living, a salary of $76,531in Ellensburg provides the same purchasing power as $75,000 nationally.
Moving to Ellensburg
Whether you're relocating for work or considering a move, understanding the cost of living in Ellensburg is crucial. Use our calculators to determine if your salary can support your desired lifestyle here. Consider not just rent, but also food, utilities, transportation, and healthcare when budgeting.
Saving and Investing
Once you understand your cost of living in Ellensburg, you can better plan your savings and investment strategy. Our financial tools help you determine how much you can realistically save each month and optimize your financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cost of Living in Ellensburg
How does the cost of living in Ellensburg compare to the national average?
Ellensburg has a cost of living index of 98, which means it's 2% less expensive than the US average of 100. This affects everything from housing to groceries and utilities.
Is a $76,531 salary good for Ellensburg?
A salary in Ellensburg has different purchasing power than elsewhere. A $76,531 salary in Ellensburg provides the same purchasing power as $75,000 nationally. Compare your salary to the median income of $38,234 to gauge your earning potential.
Can you afford to rent in Ellensburg?
With a median household income of $38,234, a one-bedroom apartment averaging $1,050 per month consumes 33.0% of income. Financial experts recommend keeping rent under 30% of gross income—this is above that threshold.
Related Data for Ellensburg, WA
Explore take-home pay, affordability, mortgages, and retirement benchmarks around Ellensburg's median income.
Take-home pay on $40,000 in Washington
Federal tax, state tax, Social Security, and Medicare breakdown.
What you can afford on $40,000 in Washington
Home price, rent, and monthly spending guidelines.
Tax brackets on $40,000 in Washington
See exactly which federal and state brackets your income crosses.
$150,000 mortgage in Washington
Monthly payment, property tax, and total interest at typical rates.
Retirement at 30 earning $40,000
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Emergency fund target for $40,000
3, 6, 9, and 12-month targets at your income level.