Bothell is considered moderately expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $2,100 and slightly higher housing and grocery costs compared to the national average.
Is the true cost of living in Bothell higher than you think? Let’s take a closer look at the expenses you can expect when living in this Seattle suburb, from housing and utilities to groceries, taxes, and more.
Housing Costs in Bothell
Housing is the biggest expense for most Bothell residents. Typical housing options include apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. Prices vary by neighborhood, with downtown and areas near highly-rated schools commanding a premium.
For renters, a 2-bedroom apartment in Bothell averages around $2,100 per month as of 2025. Prices range from $1,800 in older buildings to over $2,500 for newer luxury units. Many complexes include amenities like fitness centers and swimming pools.
Homebuyers can expect to pay between $600,000 to $1.2 million for a 3-bedroom single-family home, depending on the neighborhood, lot size, and property age. Newer construction and homes with views tend to be on the higher end. HOA fees are common, adding $200-500 per month.
- Renting a 2-bedroom apartment: $1,800 – $2,500/month
- Buying a 3-bedroom home: $600,000 – $1.2 million
- Typical HOA fees: $200 – $500/month
Utilities and Energy Bills
Utility costs in Bothell are slightly higher than the national average. Expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity for a 2-bedroom apartment, with costs spiking in the winter for heating. Water, sewer, and trash are often included in rent but can add $50-100 if paid separately.
Internet and cable packages start around $80 per month. Many residents opt for cell phone service only, which runs $40-80 per line with unlimited data.
| Utility | Typical Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $180 |
| Water/Sewer/Trash | $50 – $100 |
| Internet/Cable | $80+ |
| Cell Phone | $40 – $80 per line |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries in Bothell cost about 10% more than the national average. Budget around $400 per month for a single person or $1,000+ for a family. Dining out adds up quickly, with fast casual meals around $15 and sit-down dinners $30+.
A typical basket of groceries might include:
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $3
- Dozen eggs: $3
- 1 lb chicken breast: $5
For household and personal care items, expect to pay:
- Shampoo: $4
- Toothpaste: $3
- Laundry detergent: $12
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Bothell’s property tax rate is around 1.1% of assessed value, which is slightly higher than the national average but in line with other Seattle suburbs. For a $700,000 home, annual property taxes would be approximately $7,700.
Washington has no state income tax, but sales tax in Bothell is 10.2%, among the highest in the nation. Vehicle registration fees are also steep at $80-150 per year depending on the car’s value and weight.
| Tax | Rate |
|---|---|
| Property Tax | ~1.1% of assessed value |
| Sales Tax | 10.2% |
| State Income Tax | None |
| Vehicle Fees | $80 – $150 per year |
Monthly Budget Summary
So what does it really cost to live comfortably in Bothell? Here’s a sample monthly budget for different household sizes, based on gross income (pre-tax). Keep in mind these are general estimates.
| Household | Gross Monthly Income | Expenses |
|---|---|---|
| Single person | $5,000 | $2,000 housing $400 groceries $300 utilities $800 discretionary |
| Couple | $7,500 | $2,500 housing $800 groceries $400 utilities $1,500 discretionary |
| Family of 4 | $10,000 | $3,500 housing $1,200 groceries $500 utilities $2,000 discretionary |
Lifestyle Considerations
While Bothell is pricier than many U.S. cities, residents enjoy a high quality of life. Commutes to Seattle and Bellevue average 30-40 minutes. Homes are relatively spacious, with even older properties offering 1,500+ square feet.
Bothell is known for its excellent schools, expansive parks, and safe neighborhoods. However, the tradeoff for this family-friendly environment is a higher cost of living. Those prioritizing affordability may opt for an older home or longer commute.
Newer construction offers modern finishes and open floor plans but comes at a premium. First-time buyers should budget carefully and consider townhomes or condos as a more attainable option to break into the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What salary do you need to live comfortably in Bothell?
A gross monthly income of at least $5,000 for a single person or $7,500 for a couple is recommended to live comfortably while covering housing, food, and discretionary expenses. - Is Bothell less expensive than Seattle?
Yes, Bothell is generally 10-20% less expensive than Seattle proper, primarily due to lower housing costs. However, it is still above the national average. - Are utilities expensive in Bothell?
Utilities in Bothell are slightly higher than the U.S. average, largely due to electric heating costs in the winter. Expect to pay around $300/month for a 2-bedroom apartment. - How much are property taxes in Bothell?
The property tax rate in Bothell is approximately 1.1% of assessed value annually. For a $700,000 home, this equates to $7,700 per year. - Is Bothell a good place to buy a home?
Bothell can be a great choice for homebuyers who value good schools, suburban amenities, and proximity to Seattle job centers. However, prices are high, so buyers should evaluate their budget and long-term plans carefully. - What’s the sales tax rate in Bothell?
As of 2025, the sales tax in Bothell is 10.2%, which is among the highest in the country. This applies to most goods and services. - Do you need a car to live in Bothell?
While Bothell has some public transit options, the majority of residents find a car necessary to run errands and commute to work. Walkability is limited outside the downtown core.