Federal Way, WA vs. Bellevue, WA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Imagine two families relocating to the Seattle area in 2025. The Johnsons choose a 2-bedroom apartment in Federal Way, paying $1,800 per month. The Garcias opt for a similar unit in Bellevue at $2,600 monthly. On move-in day, both stock up on groceries. The Johnsons spend $120 at WinCo Foods, while the Garcias pay $180 at QFC. Over the next year, how will their expenses differ in Federal Way vs Bellevue?
This cost of living comparison of Federal Way and Bellevue is perfect for anyone weighing the real-life costs of these two cities in 2025, from relocating families to professionals choosing between job offers. All income figures are expressed as gross monthly amounts (pre-tax).
Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Federal Way and Bellevue compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Federal Way | Bellevue |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment | $1,800 | $2,600 |
| 3BR House | $2,400 | $3,800 |
🏆 Winner: Federal Way. Renting or buying in Federal Way can save you hundreds per month compared to similar homes in Bellevue.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $200 per month for electricity, water, gas, and garbage for a 2BR apartment in either location. Larger homes will have higher utility bills, especially in winter months.
🏆 Winner: Tie. No significant difference in utility costs between Federal Way and Bellevue.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries tend to cost about 10-15% more in Bellevue compared to Federal Way, due to factors like higher commercial rents and a more affluent customer base. Eating out follows a similar pattern, with entrees costing a few dollars more in Bellevue restaurants.
🏆 Winner: Federal Way. Expect to spend less on groceries and daily expenses in Federal Way vs Bellevue.
Taxes and Fees
Washington has no state income tax, so the main difference is in property taxes. Federal Way’s property tax rate is about 1.1%, while Bellevue’s is 0.9%. However, Bellevue’s higher home values mean owners still often pay more in total property taxes.
🏆 Winner: Federal Way. Lower home values in Federal Way translate to lower property tax bills for many homeowners.
Cost Summary
| Category | Federal Way | Bellevue |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Apt) | $1,800 | $2,600 |
| Utilities | $200 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $450 |
| Transportation | $100 | $100 |
| Taxes (Property) | 1.1% | 0.9% |
| Misc Expenses | $200 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,700 | $3,600 |
Lifestyle Fit
Federal Way offers more affordable housing and slightly lower expenses, but Bellevue boasts a more upscale vibe, highly-rated schools, and a vibrant downtown. Bellevue also has more public transportation options. Commuting to Seattle takes about 25 minutes from Bellevue compared to 35-45 minutes from Federal Way.
FAQ
- Is Federal Way more affordable than Bellevue?
- Yes, Federal Way has a lower overall cost of living than Bellevue, mainly due to cheaper housing.
- Which city has lower rent?
- On average, rents in Federal Way are about 30% lower than comparable apartments in Bellevue.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
- Federal Way home prices are significantly lower than Bellevue. Expect to pay 30-40% less for a similar house.
Conclusion
While both are Seattle suburbs, Federal Way is more affordable than Bellevue across major cost of living factors like housing, food, and taxes. A household moving from Bellevue to Federal Way might save $800 or more per month.
Budget-conscious families, retirees, and young professionals may prefer Federal Way for its lower housing costs. However, those prioritizing top schools, urban amenities, and shorter commutes may find Bellevue worth the premium.
Considering other cities in the region? Check out our detailed look at monthly expenses in Federal Way or see how the cost of living in Federal Way compares to other Washington cities.