Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
45% cheaper
Spokane is 45% more affordable than Irvine. A $75,000 salary in Irvine is equivalent to $41,292 in Spokane.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Irvine has a housing index of 294 while Spokane sits at 94 (national average = 100). The median home in Irvine costs $1,050,000 compared to $310,000 in Spokane, a difference of $740,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,000 in Irvine versus $1,200 in Spokane.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Irvine scores 108 while Spokane scores 99.
Healthcare costs in Irvine (109) are higher than Spokane (102).
Median household income in Irvine is $108,038 compared to $48,834 in Spokane. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Spokane.
Amazon affiliate links