Is Los Angeles or Seattle more affordable?
Los Angeles has a median rent of $1,852/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Seattle is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Los Angeles, CA vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Los Angeles and Seattle.
2
Los Angeles wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Seattle wins
CA
Los Angeles
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
3,898,747
Population
726,054
$69,144
Median Income
+52.4%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,852
Median Rent / mo
-2.8%$1,801✓
$750,000✓
Median Home Price
+2.3%$767,500
32%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
None✓
9.50%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
75°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
58°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°F
284 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
15"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Los Angeles vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Los Angeles or Seattle?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Los Angeles and Seattle?
Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Los Angeles or Seattle?
Los Angeles. 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.