Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
23% cheaper
Portland is 23% more affordable than Washington. A $75,000 salary in Washington is equivalent to $57,730 in Portland.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Maine salaries · District of Columbia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Portland has a housing index of 137 while Washington sits at 226 (national average = 100). The median home in Portland costs $395,000 compared to $580,000 in Washington, a difference of $185,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Portland versus $2,300 in Washington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Portland scores 107 while Washington scores 108.
Healthcare costs in Portland (110) are higher than Washington (105).
Median household income in Portland is $56,895 compared to $90,842 in Washington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Portland.
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