Is Salt Lake City or Seattle more affordable?
Salt Lake City has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Salt Lake City is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Salt Lake City, UT vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Salt Lake City and Seattle.
3
Salt Lake City wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
UT
Salt Lake City
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
199,723
Population
726,054
$58,000
Median Income
+81.7%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,450✓
Median Rent / mo
+24.2%$1,801
$480,000✓
Median Home Price
+59.9%$767,500
30%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
4.65%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.75%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°F
222 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
17"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Salt Lake City vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Salt Lake City or Seattle?
Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Salt Lake City and Seattle?
Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Salt Lake City or Seattle?
Salt Lake City. 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.