Spokane, WA
Why You’ll Love Living in Spokane, Washington
If you’re looking for an affordable place to live on the West Coast, consider Spokane, Washington. Compared to most West Coast cities, Spokane offers residents a lower overall cost of living, which makes it an attractive option for families, young professionals and retirees. Spokane’s cultural attractions entice locals and tourists alike to linger downtown and explore the region’s art, history and food scenes. Spokane offers a diversity of job opportunities in everything from health care and public services to manufacturing and education, as well as a rise in the finance and technology sectors.
Thinking of moving to Spokane, WA? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Spokane, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Spokane, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Spokane, WA, a Best Place to Live in 2024
With its location along the Spokane River and adjacent to the Selkirk Mountains, Spokane, WA, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. We’re talking mountain biking, kayaking (76 lakes within an hour’s drive!), skiing, snowboarding and other adventures. Keep in mind that Canada is less than 100 miles away, and Idaho is a hop, skip and a jump from Spokane. That natural beauty keeps the city eco-conscious and is just one of the reasons it’s one of the best places to live in the U.S. The outdoors extends to the nearly two dozen wineries to explore, many within walking distance of one another.
Locals are also blessed with excellent health care and education options, not to mention a low cost of living and a thriving economy. What else could you ask for, you wonder? Spokane’s economy is diverse, so much so that it is considered a central hub for the Inland Northwest, including parts of Washington, Idaho, Montana and Oregon.
The city has a penchant for volunteerism, so there are plenty of opportunities to be a part of the community, whether in your professional or personal life. This Pacific Northwest city offers adorable coffee shops, a creative culinary scene, breweries, wineries and tasting rooms, and some really cool mid-century architecture.
Spokane, WA Quality of Life LivScore
Spokane, WA Top Categories
Environment
Economy
Amenities
Spokane ranks highest for environment, economy and amenities.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Spokane, WA
Spring and fall are shorter in Spokane than in other parts of the country, and the Cascade Mountains keep the area from being as wet as others in the Pacific Northwest. As a result, the temperature varies less here, and the average highs and lows are 80°F and 57°F (summer) and 35°F and 23°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Spokane is 44 inches, and snow is most likely to fall from December to February.
The average annual rainfall in Spokane is 17 inches.
Spokane averages 172 sunny days a year.
From May to September, Arbor Crest Vineyard hosts Thursday and Sunday concerts every week, with tickets from $8 to $18. Located on a bluff above the river, it’s a stellar place to relax with wine and live music. In addition, the river is perfect for all kinds of water sports, while Riverside and Mt. Spokane state parks are great places to hike, bicycle and more.
Things To Do in Spokane, WA
Spend an afternoon walking or biking the Centennial Trail, a 40-mile paved trail that crosses the border between Washington and Idaho.
The Riverfront offers activities for all ages. The skating ribbon is free with your own wheels (helmets required). There’s also the 114-year-old, hard-carved Looff Carrousel, multiple playgrounds, and the Skyride cable car that takes you in front of Spokane Falls and gives great views of the city.
Spokane is full of firsts and famous tidbits. Spokane is the birthplace of Father’s Day and hosts the world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament, Hoopfest. Settled to make use of the Spokane River, the city has maintained many of its historical buildings, and more than half the buildings downtown are on the Historic Register.
The Garland District is one of the neighborhoods known for local businesses, shops and eateries. It’s a great area to explore and find unique items in vintage stores and specialty boutiques.
Baba Spokane is an innovative Mediterranean restaurant with a reputation for great entrees and even better cocktails. It has a minimalist, modern vibe, serves vegan dishes and has a wine club.
The Bing Crosby Theater, originally built in 1914, is a historic venue that is now considered a cultural hub in Spokane. The Knitting Factory Concert House is another popular venue for local and touring artists.
In a city of great coffee shops, it’s difficult to go wrong, but 1st Avenue Coffee stands out with its massive coffee bar, pour-over options, locally roasted beans, house-made syrups and in-house gluten-free bakery. Specialty lattes change seasonally but are always well-balanced and delicious.
The Local and State Economy in Spokane, WA
Spokane has a diverse economy with several major industries, including manufacturing, logistics and aerospace.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Spokane is 9%.
No, Washington does not have a state income tax.
Spokane residents have access to several highly regarded hospitals, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, MultiCare Deaconess Hospital and Providence Holy Family Hospital.
There are several major colleges and universities in Spokane, WA, including Gonzaga University and Whitworth University.
Weather in Spokane, WA
Average Temperatures
59 High / 38 Low
Average Annual Rainfall
17 Inches
Average Annual Snowfall
33 Inches
Quick Facts about Spokane, Washington
- Median Home Value
- $356,028
- Median Property Tax
- $2,517
- Total Population
- 232,321
- Average Commute
- 18 min
- Median Household Income
- $66,231
- Median Rent per Month
- $923
Map of Spokane, WA
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