Cost of Living in Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater, WA

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater? 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 ($1,960/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $39,239, or roughly $3,270 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater metro has a cost of living index of 125.9 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 26% above average, Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater 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 Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater represents approximately 34% of gross income. That exceeds the conventional 30% guideline, meaning housing takes a significant share of the budget at this income level. Washington's zero income tax helps offset the rent burden compared to otherwise similar cities that also levy state income tax.