Everett is considered moderately expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $2,100 and slightly higher utility and grocery costs compared to the national average.
As Sarah unpacked the last box in her new Everett apartment, reality began to set in. She knew moving to this charming city north of Seattle would come with a higher price tag, but seeing the numbers laid out in her monthly budget was still an adjustment. Like many new residents, Sarah quickly learned that understanding the true cost of living in Everett is essential for making ends meet comfortably.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the various expenses you can expect when calling Everett home in 2025. From housing and utilities to groceries and lifestyle considerations, we’ll provide a clear picture of what it takes to live in this vibrant Pacific Northwest city. All budget figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax) for clarity.
Housing Costs in Everett
Housing is typically the largest expense for Everett residents. In 2025, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in the city is around $2,100 per month. However, this can vary depending on the neighborhood and property type. For example, newer luxury apartments in the downtown area may command higher rents, while older complexes further from the city center may be more affordable.
If you’re looking to purchase a home, expect to pay a median price of around $650,000 for a 3-bedroom single-family house. Again, prices can fluctuate significantly based on location, age, and amenities. Some popular neighborhoods for homebuyers include:
- Silver Lake: Modest older homes, median price around $550,000
- Bayside: Mix of new construction and established homes, median price around $700,000
- Port Gardner: Upscale waterfront properties, median price over $1 million
Keep in mind that many neighborhoods in Everett have active homeowners associations (HOAs). Monthly HOA fees can range from $200-500, so be sure to factor this into your housing budget if applicable.
Utility Costs
Utility costs in Everett are slightly higher than the national average, largely due to the city’s cooler climate and resulting heating needs. For a 2-bedroom apartment, you can expect to pay around:
| Utility | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $90 |
| Natural gas (heating) | $60 |
| Water/sewer/trash | $80 |
| Internet | $65 |
Of course, your actual utility costs will depend on factors like the size and efficiency of your home, as well as your personal usage habits. Still, budgeting around $300 per month for basic utilities is a good starting point for most Everett residents.
Groceries and Food
Feeding yourself and your family is another significant expense to consider. According to local cost of living data, the average Everett resident spends around $400 per month on groceries. This assumes a mix of home-cooked meals and occasional dining out.
To give you a sense of local grocery prices, here’s what you might pay for some staple items:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $3.00
- Dozen eggs: $2.75
- Pound of chicken breast: $4.50
Dining out will understandably cost more. A meal at a mid-range restaurant in Everett averages around $18 per person, while a fast-food combo meal is about $9. If you enjoy the occasional latte, expect to pay about $4.50 at local cafes.
Transportation and Commuting
Everett’s location just north of Seattle means many residents commute into the city for work. If you plan to drive, budget for the following monthly costs:
- Car payment: $400-600
- Gas: $100-150
- Insurance: $100-200
- Maintenance and repairs: $50-100
For a more budget-friendly option, consider public transit. An ORCA card, which grants access to buses, trains, and ferries across the Puget Sound region, costs $99 per month for unlimited rides.
Taxes in Everett
Washington state has no personal income tax, which can help offset the higher costs of housing and utilities in Everett. However, residents still pay a few other notable taxes:
| Tax | Rate |
|---|---|
| Sales tax (state + local) | 10.5% |
| Property tax (median home) | $4,500 annually |
| Vehicle registration fees | $100-300 annually |
Monthly Budget Summary
To summarize, here’s a sample monthly budget for different household types living in Everett:
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent/mortgage) | $1,400 | $2,100 | $2,800 |
| Utilities | $250 | $300 | $400 |
| Groceries and dining | $400 | $800 | $1,200 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Miscellaneous | $300 | $500 | $700 |
| Total | $2,650 | $4,200 | $5,900 |
Keep in mind these are approximate figures and your actual expenses may vary. It’s always wise to have some cushion in your budget for unexpected costs or savings goals.
Lifestyle Considerations
Of course, the cost of living is just one factor to weigh when considering a move to Everett. The city offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty that many find well worth the price.
Everett boasts a revitalized downtown core with a thriving arts and culture scene, diverse dining options, and convenient access to Seattle via I-5 or public transit. The city also has an extensive park system, with over 40 parks offering everything from hiking trails to beach access.
That said, Everett’s housing market is competitive, and many residents face tradeoffs between affordability, commute times, and home size/quality. Newer, move-in ready homes tend to come at a premium, while more affordable options may require some sweat equity. And while Everett’s job market is strong, with major employers like Boeing and Naval Station Everett, wages haven’t always kept pace with rising housing costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does Everett’s cost of living compare to Seattle?
A: Everett is generally 10-15% less expensive than Seattle, primarily due to lower housing costs. However, Everett residents may face longer commute times.
Q: Are utilities expensive in Everett?
A: Utility costs in Everett are slightly higher than the national average, largely due to heating needs. Budget around $300/month for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Q: How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Everett?
A: A comfortable lifestyle in Everett likely requires a gross monthly income of at least $4,200 for a couple or $5,900 for a family of four.
Q: What’s the sales tax rate in Everett?
A: The combined state and local sales tax rate in Everett is 10.5% as of 2025.
Q: Is Everett a good place to buy a home?
A: Everett can be a good option for homebuyers seeking more space and amenities than Seattle at a lower price point. However, the market is competitive and many homes require updates.
Q: How walkable is Everett?
A: Everett’s walkability varies by neighborhood. Downtown and some older residential areas are fairly walkable, while newer subdivisions tend to be more car-dependent.
Q: What’s the job market like in Everett?
A: Everett has a diverse job market anchored by major employers in aerospace, naval operations, healthcare, and manufacturing. However, many residents commute to Seattle for work.
Ultimately, while Everett’s cost of living is higher than some parts of the country, many residents find the city’s unique blend of urban amenities, natural beauty, and economic opportunity make it an attractive place to call home. By understanding the expenses outlined here and planning accordingly, you can pave the way for a successful transition to life in this vibrant Pacific Northwest community.