Cost of Living in Lake Stevens, WA
2026 data for Lake Stevens, WA • Population: 41,230
+12% more 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 Lake Stevens
Population
Estimated population of Lake Stevens
How Far Does Your Salary Go?
A salary in Lake Stevens 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 Lake Stevens ÷ COL index × 100 = equivalent national salary. A $44,643 national salary gives you the same purchasing power as $50,000 in Lake Stevens.
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 Lake Stevens'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 Lake Stevens's cost of living.
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Cost of Living Guide for Lake Stevens, WA
Overview
Lake Stevens has a cost of living index of 112, making it 12% more expensive than the national average. With a population of 41,230 and a median household income of $78,234, understanding the true cost of living here is essential for financial planning.
Housing Market
The housing market in Lake Stevens reflects its cost of living index. A one-bedroom apartment averages $1,350 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs approximately $1,700 per month. For renters, this typically consumes 20.7% of the median household income—within the recommended 30% threshold.
Income and Affordability
With a median household income of $78,234, Lake Stevens residents earn slightly above the national median. When factoring in the local cost of living, a salary of $66,964in Lake Stevens provides the same purchasing power as $75,000 nationally.
Moving to Lake Stevens
Whether you're relocating for work or considering a move, understanding the cost of living in Lake Stevens 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 Lake Stevens, 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 Lake Stevens
How does the cost of living in Lake Stevens compare to the national average?
Lake Stevens has a cost of living index of 112, which means it's 12% more expensive than the US average of 100. This affects everything from housing to groceries and utilities.
Is a $66,964 salary good for Lake Stevens?
A salary in Lake Stevens has different purchasing power than elsewhere. A $66,964 salary in Lake Stevens provides the same purchasing power as $75,000 nationally. Compare your salary to the median income of $78,234 to gauge your earning potential.
Can you afford to rent in Lake Stevens?
With a median household income of $78,234, a one-bedroom apartment averaging $1,350 per month consumes 20.7% of income. Financial experts recommend keeping rent under 30% of gross income—this is within that threshold.
Related Data for Lake Stevens, WA
Explore take-home pay, affordability, mortgages, and retirement benchmarks around Lake Stevens's median income.
Take-home pay on $80,000 in Washington
Federal tax, state tax, Social Security, and Medicare breakdown.
What you can afford on $80,000 in Washington
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Tax brackets on $80,000 in Washington
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$300,000 mortgage in Washington
Monthly payment, property tax, and total interest at typical rates.
Retirement at 30 earning $80,000
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Emergency fund target for $80,000
3, 6, 9, and 12-month targets at your income level.