Spokane gives you four real seasons, lakes and mountains within an hour, and homes that cost far less than Seattle, Portland or most of California. Washington also has no state income tax. That combination is why so many people ask me whether Spokane is the right move.
I'm Chelsea McFarland, a broker with Prime Real Estate Group since 2016 and a Military Relocation Professional. I help people relocate here every year, from first-time buyers to families wanting a few acres. This guide answers the questions I hear most, so you can decide if Spokane fits before you ever book a flight.
Spokane's overall cost of living runs a few percent below the national average, which is rare for Washington. Housing is the biggest savings: Seattle's typical home costs nearly twice as much.
If you work remotely and keep a coastal salary, your money goes noticeably further here.
Spokane usually wins on home prices and income taxes; Coeur d'Alene wins on lake-town lifestyle. They're only about 30 minutes apart, so many people weigh both.
| Spokane, WA | Coeur d'Alene, ID | |
|---|---|---|
| Median home price | About $425,000 (Spokane County, Oct 2026, Spokane Realtors) | Around $569,000 (Kootenai County, Sept 2026) |
| State income tax | None | Yes |
| Sales tax | About 9% | Lower than Washington |
| Feel | Mid-size city: hospitals, universities, airport, arts | Resort and lake town, busier in summer |
| Best for | Value, jobs, healthcare access | Lake lifestyle, tourism-driven energy |
A common choice is to live in Spokane, Spokane Valley or Liberty Lake and drive to the lake on weekends. I work on both sides of the state line, so I can help you compare specific homes.
The best area depends on your budget, commute and how much space you want. Here's how I'd start narrowing it down.
| If you want… | Look at |
|---|---|
| Historic homes, walkable streets, parks | South Hill, Manito, Rockwood |
| Newer homes and strong schools | Mead, North Spokane, Liberty Lake |
| Good value and an easy commute | Spokane Valley, West Plains |
| Close to Fairchild AFB | Airway Heights, Medical Lake, Cheney |
| Room to spread out: acreage, shops, animals | Colbert, Nine Mile Falls, Deer Park, Cheney, Spangle |
| Downtown living | Downtown, Kendall Yards, Browne's Addition |
Acreage is my favorite kind of home to sell. If you want land, ask early about wells, septic, road maintenance and zoning. Those details matter more than the kitchen.
Spokane's market has leveled off: prices are steady and buyers have more choices than a few years ago. The Spokane County median price was $425,000 in October 2026, up 1.2% from a year earlier (Spokane Realtors).
What that means for you:
Prices vary a lot by area and by property type, especially acreage. Ask me for a current snapshot of the areas you're considering.
For the latest monthly numbers, see the Spokane Realtors Monthly Home Sales Report, updated each month.
Yes, for most people who want space, outdoor access and lower costs. Winters are real, with snow from about December to February, but summers are dry and sunny.
Yes. Home prices in Spokane are roughly half of Seattle's, and everyday costs are lower too.
No. Washington does not tax wages, while Idaho does.
It depends on budget and schools. Families often look at the South Hill, Mead, North Spokane and Liberty Lake.
Yes. Colbert, Nine Mile Falls, Deer Park, Cheney and Spangle all have homes on acreage within about 30 minutes of the city.
Spokane is usually more affordable and has no income tax. Coeur d'Alene offers a lake-town lifestyle at higher prices.
Yes. Many of my relocation clients tour by video, make an offer remotely and sign documents electronically.
I'm Chelsea McFarland, team leader of the McFarland Prey team at Prime Real Estate Group in Spokane. I hold the Military Relocation Professional (MRP), Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) and Certified Probate Specialist designations. I was Prime's #1 agent in sales volume for 2025 and received its Client Hero Award.
Whether you're coming for a job, family, the military or a little more land, I'll help you find the right area and the right home, even from a distance.
Call or text: 509.565.1581
Email: chelsea@mcfarlandprey.com
Office: 1402 S Grand Blvd, Suite 201, Spokane, WA 99203
Sign in with your email address
You’re being redirected to the page with listing data.