Bellevue, WA vs. Renton, WA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Bellevue or Renton? This article provides a cost of living comparison between the two Washington cities. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life costs of living in Bellevue vs Renton in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Bellevue and Renton:
| Housing Type | Bellevue | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,800 | $2,200 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $1.2M | $850K |
🏆 Winner: Renton. Housing costs, both for renting and buying, are significantly lower in Renton compared to Bellevue.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another important consideration. In Bellevue and Renton, expect to pay around:
- Electricity: $80-120/month
- Gas: $40-60/month
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $80-100/month
Costs are fairly similar between the two cities, but Renton has slightly lower utility rates on average.
🏆 Winner: Renton, but the difference is minimal.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday purchases are comparable between Bellevue and Renton. Expect to spend around $400-600/month on groceries for a family of 2-3.
Restaurant prices are also similar, with a meal out ranging from $12-15 per person on average in both cities.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Costs for groceries and daily expenses are nearly identical.
Taxes and Fees
Washington has no state income tax, so the main tax considerations are property taxes and sales tax.
- Bellevue property tax rate: 0.93%
- Renton property tax rate: 1.06%
- Sales tax in both cities: 10%
Can You Afford to Live in Bellevue? Monthly Budget Guide
🏆 Winner: Bellevue. While the difference is small, Bellevue’s property tax rate is lower.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Bellevue | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage/Rent) | $2,800 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $220 | $200 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $150 | $120 |
| Taxes (Property) | 0.93% | 1.06% |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total (pre-tax) | $4,170 | $3,420 |
Cost of Living in Bellevue, WA: What You’ll Really Spend in 2025
Lifestyle Fit
While Renton is more affordable, Bellevue offers a more upscale suburban feel with high-end shopping and dining. Renton is about 5°F warmer on average than Bellevue. Bellevue has better walkability and shorter commutes to major employers like Microsoft and Amazon. Renton provides more space and quiet for the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Bellevue more affordable than Renton? No, Renton has a lower overall cost of living, especially for housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Renton has lower average rent prices for apartments and houses.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Home prices and mortgages are significantly lower in Renton compared to Bellevue.
Conclusion
Renton offers a lower cost of living overall compared to Bellevue, particularly for housing whether renting or buying. Bellevue is a better fit for those prioritizing a premium location and shorter commutes who have the budget to afford it. Renton is ideal for families looking for affordable space and a quieter suburban lifestyle.
For more cost of living comparisons, check out our other breakdowns for cities in Washington state.