Cost of Living in Washington, MO
Population 14,948 · Missouri · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Washington offers a notably favorable income-to-housing ratio for its region. The typical home — $218,000 — costs less than 2.8 times median household income of $78,510, a threshold many coastal markets passed a decade ago.
Located 40 miles west of St. Louis, Washington falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 18% higher than St. Louis' $185,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Washington
The median home value in Washington is $217,500 — 29% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $846/month, 36% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $78,510/year is 5% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.8%, below the national average of 4.8%. Missouri's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 8.4%. Overall, Washington has a cost of living index of 69 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 31% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Washington, MO?
Washington has a cost index of 69 (100 = national average). It is 31% below the national average.
What is average rent in Washington, MO?
The median gross rent in Washington is $846 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Washington?
The median home value in Washington is $217,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Washington?
The median household income in Washington is $78,510 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Washington, MO?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Washington is 8.4%. The Missouri state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Washington, MO affordable?
Yes, Washington is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 69 — about 31% below the US national average of 100.
Washington at a Glance
- Population
- 14,948
- Median Income
- $78,510
- Home Value
- $217,500
- Median Rent
- $846/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.8%
- Sales Tax
- 8.4%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Missouri Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
Cities in other states with comparable housing costs