Cost of Living in Mount Vernon-Anacortes, WA

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Mount Vernon-Anacortes? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $7,241 per year — Washington levies no state income tax, so that figure covers federal tax only. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,720/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Mount Vernon-Anacortes metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $42,119, or roughly $3,510 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Mount Vernon-Anacortes metro has a cost of living index of 121.6 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 22% above average, Mount Vernon-Anacortes is a noticeably expensive metro — groceries, services, and everyday purchases cost more than in most of the country.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Mount Vernon-Anacortes represents approximately 29% of gross income. That approaches the 30% threshold commonly used to define affordability. A smaller unit or a higher salary would improve the picture. Washington's zero income tax helps offset the rent burden compared to otherwise similar cities that also levy state income tax.