Is Honolulu or Seattle more affordable?
Honolulu has a median rent of $2,100/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Seattle is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Honolulu, HI vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Honolulu and Seattle.
2
Honolulu wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Seattle wins
HI
Honolulu
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
347,397
Population
726,054
$81,376
Median Income
+29.5%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$2,100
Median Rent / mo
-14.2%$1,801✓
$750,000✓
Median Home Price
+2.3%$767,500
31%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
11.00%
State Income Tax
None✓
4.50%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
85°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
73°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°F
278 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
24"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu is a city in Hawaii with a population of 347,397.
Read full Honolulu guide →Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Honolulu vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Honolulu or Seattle?
Hawaii has a 11.00% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Honolulu and Seattle?
Honolulu gets 278 sunny days/year. Avg high in Honolulu: 85°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Honolulu or Seattle?
Honolulu. Seattle. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.