Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
6% cheaper
Providence is 6% more affordable than Tacoma. A $75,000 salary in Tacoma is equivalent to $70,513 in Providence.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Rhode Island salaries · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Providence has a housing index of 118 while Tacoma sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Providence costs $310,000 compared to $400,000 in Tacoma, a difference of $90,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Providence versus $1,600 in Tacoma.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Providence scores 105 while Tacoma scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Providence (112) are higher than Tacoma (106).
Median household income in Providence is $47,012 compared to $58,974 in Tacoma. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Providence.
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