Redmond is considered an expensive suburb in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $2,800 and home prices significantly above the national median.
Living in Redmond, WA in 2025 costs about $5,200 per month in gross income for a comfortable lifestyle for a couple, largely due to high housing costs. Let’s break down the numbers to see what it really takes to make ends meet in this tech-centric Seattle suburb.
Housing Costs in Redmond
Housing is the biggest expense for most Redmond residents. Typical housing options include:
- Renting a 2-bedroom apartment: $2,600 – $3,000/month
- Buying a 3-bedroom house: $900,000 – $1.2 million ($4,500 – $6,000/month mortgage)
- Renting a room in a shared house: $1,000 – $1,400/month
Prices vary significantly by neighborhood. Expect to pay a premium for walkable areas near downtown or the Microsoft campus. Older homes and apartments further from the city center tend to be more affordable.
Most newer housing developments have Homeowners Association (HOA) fees ranging from $200 – $500/month. This covers amenities and exterior maintenance but adds to the total monthly cost.
Utilities and Energy Bills
Basic utility costs in Redmond are as follows:
| Utility | Typical Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $80 – $150 |
| Water/Sewer/Trash | $90 – $120 |
| Natural Gas | $30 – $80 |
| Internet | $60 – $100 |
Electricity bills tend to be highest in the winter due to heating costs. Choosing an energy-efficient home or apartment can help keep utility expenses under control.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs in Redmond are about 10% higher than the national average. Expect to spend around $400 per person per month on groceries and household essentials.
A typical basket of goods:
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $3.00
- Dozen eggs: $3.00
- 1 lb chicken breast: $6.00
Dining out costs $15-$25 per meal at a casual restaurant, or $30-$60 per person at a nicer establishment. Grabbing lunch in the Microsoft Commons or downtown Redmond runs about $12-$18.
Taxes and Fees
Redmond’s property tax rate is around 0.9%, which equates to $9,000 per year on a $1 million home. Vehicle registration fees are $30 per year plus sales tax on the purchase price.
Washington has no state income tax, but sales tax in Redmond is 10.1% on most goods and services. This is slightly higher than in nearby Bellevue (9.7%) or Kirkland (9.8%).
Monthly Budget Summary
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,800 | $2,800 | $4,500 |
| Utilities | $200 | $300 | $450 |
| Groceries & Dining Out | $600 | $1,000 | $1,600 |
| Transportation & Car Payment | $500 | $800 | $1,200 |
| Healthcare | $300 | $600 | $1,200 |
| Other (Entertainment, Travel, Savings) | $600 | $1,000 | $1,500 |
| Total Monthly Expenses | $4,000 | $6,500 | $10,450 |
| Recommended Gross Income (Monthly) | $4,800 | $7,800 | $12,500 |
Note that these are estimates based on a comfortable middle-class lifestyle in Redmond. Expenses can be higher or lower depending on your neighborhood, consumption habits, and family size.
Lifestyle Considerations
While the cost of living in Redmond is high, many residents feel the tradeoff is worth it for the strong job market, excellent schools, and high quality of life. Redmond is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Washington.
Traffic congestion is a challenge, with average commute times around 30 minutes each way. Living closer to work or near public transit can cut down on time spent in the car.
Redmond offers a variety of parks, trails, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Marymoor Park is a local favorite with sports fields, a climbing wall, and an off-leash dog area. The Sammamish River Trail connects Redmond to nearby cities like Woodinville and Bothell.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Redmond?
Renting is generally more affordable in the short term, but buying can be a better financial move long-term if you plan to stay in the area for 5+ years. Work with a local real estate agent to assess your options. - How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Redmond?
A gross income of at least $4,800/month ($57,600/year) for a single person or $7,800/month ($93,600/year) for a couple is recommended to live comfortably in Redmond as of 2025. Keep in mind this is pre-tax income. - Are there any affordable neighborhoods in Redmond?
Southeast Redmond and the Overlake area tend to have lower housing costs than neighborhoods closer to downtown. Look for older homes or apartments for the best value. - How do living costs compare to nearby cities like Bellevue or Kirkland?
Redmond is slightly less expensive than Bellevue and roughly on par with Kirkland. Housing costs are the biggest differentiator between these Eastside cities. - What’s the job market like in Redmond?
Redmond has a robust job market anchored by Microsoft and Nintendo. The city is a hub for the tech industry, with numerous software, gaming, and IT companies. Skilled tech workers are in high demand. - How much can I expect to pay in HOA fees?
If you buy a home in a newer development or planned community, HOA fees typically range from $200 – $500/month. Be sure to factor this into your housing budget. - What’s the best way to get around Redmond?
Driving is the most common way to get around, but Redmond also has good bus service through King County Metro. The Redmond Transit Center is a hub for local and regional bus routes. Cycling is a popular option during the drier months.