WHAT IT ACTUALLY COSTS
Washington's cost picture is unusual — no income tax, but you feel it elsewhere. Here's the honest math before you move.
State income tax
Washington is one of a handful of states with no personal income tax — a major swing if you're coming from California (up to ~13%) or another taxed state. (There is a capital-gains tax, but only on very large investment gains.)
Sales tax
State base is 6.5%, and with local add-ons it runs roughly 8.6%–10.3% across the Puget Sound region. You'll notice it most on big purchases — a car, furniture for the new place.
Property tax
Below the national average, but it varies by county and local levies. On a $600K home that's roughly $5,000–$6,000 a year — always check the specific parcel.
Ferries & commute
West of the Sound, factor in ferry fares: a few dollars to walk on, roughly $15–30 for a vehicle one-way depending on the route, with monthly passes and ORCA discounts. Kitsap Transit's fast passenger ferries are an affordable Seattle option.
Utilities & heat
Electricity comes from Puget Sound Energy or a county PUD. Many homes are all-electric or use heat pumps and propane — natural gas isn't everywhere, especially rural. The mild climate keeps heating and cooling bills reasonable.
Home insurance
No hurricanes and low tornado risk keep premiums below disaster-prone states. Earthquake coverage is a separate, worthwhile add-on, and rural or wildfire-exposed areas can run higher.
Coming from Seattle or California?
The headline is usually the same: you get noticeably more home for the money and no state income tax — but watch the ferry budget and the sales tax. Plug real numbers into the budget calculator to see your monthly picture, and James can pressure-test it for your exact situation.
Figures are approximate and change — verify current rates and any specific property's taxes before you rely on them.
Ready to make the move?
Tell us a little about your move and James will follow up personally — no pressure, no spam. Whether you're six weeks or two years out, you'll get straight answers about neighborhoods, prices, and timing from a broker who lives here.
