Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Richmond is 12% more affordable than Tacoma. A $75,000 salary in Tacoma is equivalent to $66,026 in Richmond.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Virginia salaries · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Richmond has a housing index of 108 while Tacoma sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Richmond costs $300,000 compared to $400,000 in Tacoma, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Richmond versus $1,600 in Tacoma.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Richmond scores 100 while Tacoma scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Richmond (100) are lower than Tacoma (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Richmond is $50,120 compared to $58,974 in Tacoma. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Richmond.
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