Deciding where to live is a major choice that affects your daily life and happiness. If you’re thinking about moving to Washington state, you might be looking at Spokane and Seattle. Let’s see what each place offers to help you choose wisely.
Seattle has big city life, while Spokane is known for its relaxed vibe. We will look at livability, the cost of living, job opportunities, weather, things to do outside, culture, schools, hospitals, how you get around, and the people. Are you ready to find out all the great things about each city? Let’s jump in and compare!
Livability in Spokane vs. Seattle
Choosing the perfect city means looking at how easy it is to live there. Spokane and Seattle both have good and not-so-good points when it comes to this. Let’s take a closer look at what each city has to offer.
Safety
Feeling safe is crucial for anyone. Spokane and Seattle are both pretty safe places to live. Spokane is even safer than Seattle, making it a good pick for folks wanting peace of mind.
Healthcare
Good healthcare is essential for quality of life. Seattle shines with top hospitals like the University of Washington Medical Center. Spokane is no slouch, though. It has places like Providence Sacred Heart and MultiCare, ensuring top-notch care for its people.
Education
For those with families or learning ambitions, education matters. Seattle and Spokane are both great for this. Seattle has the big University of Washington. Spokane has Gonzaga and Eastern Washington University. They provide lots of chances to learn and grow.
Cultural Amenities
Arts and culture make living somewhere special. Seattle is known all over for its art and dance, like the Seattle Art Museum and the Pacific Northwest Ballet. Spokane, though smaller, has cool places too. Think of the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture or First Friday Art Walks. They show how creative Spokane is.
Community
The people around you can make a big difference. Both cities have strong communities, Seattle with its many faces and Spokane with its small-town feel. In Spokane, neighbors often join in local happenings. Seattle offers a mix of folks for a lively atmosphere.
| Factors | Spokane | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | Relatively low crime rate | Higher crime rate compared to Spokane |
| Healthcare | Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, MultiCare Deaconess Hospital | University of Washington Medical Center, Swedish Medical Center |
| Education | Gonzaga University, Eastern Washington University | University of Washington, Seattle University |
| Cultural Amenities | Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, First Friday Art Walks | Seattle Art Museum, Pacific Northwest Ballet |
| Community | Tight-knit community, active in local events and initiatives | Diverse and vibrant community |
Deciding between Spokane and Seattle means focusing on what matters to you. Each city has its own charm. Spokane has a strong community spirit. Seattle is rich in culture. There’s something in either city for anyone looking for a great place to live.
Cost of Living in Spokane vs. Seattle
Thinking of moving? Knowing the cost to live in a city is key to planning your budget. This guide will compare Spokane and Seattle’s living costs to help you choose. Your decision will depend on what you can afford and your lifestyle.
Housing Prices
Home prices are a big part of the cost of living. Spokane is cheaper than Seattle. The median home price in Spokane is about $300,000. In Seattle, it hits around $700,000. Rents in Spokane are also more budget-friendly.
Transportation
Travel expenses are part of daily life. Getting around Spokane costs less than in Seattle. Gas is cheaper, and so are bus and train tickets. Spokane’s smaller size means less time commuting for many people.
Groceries and Other Expenses
Everyday items are cheaper in Spokane than in Seattle. This includes food, cleaning products, and personal care. Going out to eat and enjoying entertainment are also less expensive in Spokane. This is because the overall cost of living is lower.
“Spokane’s living costs, including housing and traveling, are much lower than Seattle’s. This can really save you money each month.”
Spokane is more affordable than Seattle. Lower housing, travel, and daily costs make for a cheaper life. But, your choice should fit your own financial picture and lifestyle needs.
Next, we’ll look at the job scene in Spokane and Seattle. This will help you see where you might find better work opportunities.
Job Prospects in Spokane vs. Seattle
Looking to move to a new city means checking out job prospects. We will compare job markets in Spokane and Seattle. Topics include industries, how many people are working, and career chances.
Industries
Spokane and Seattle both have strong, diverse industries. Spokane shines in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. It’s also growing in technology. There are startups and big companies in these sectors.
Seattle is a tech powerhouse with Microsoft and Amazon. It also has a big aerospace scene. Boeing’s main office is here. Arts and culture jobs in design, film, and music are also plenty here.
“Both Spokane and Seattle offer promising options for job seekers, each with its own unique set of industries and career pathways.”
Employment Rates
Spokane has seen steady job growth with low unemployment. Jobs in healthcare, education, and technology keep the city employed. This strength reflects in the solid job market.
Seattle is highly competitive, driven by the tech boom. It offers more jobs than the national average. People come for tech, software, and engineering opportunities.
Job Market
Spokane, the “Lilac City,” feels like home and supports businesses. Its small size is great for making professional friends. This is good for getting to know people in your field.
Seattle, the “Emerald City,” is a global spot for work. It’s rich in jobs, especially in tech, finance, and health. Those looking to start something new find Seattle’s startup scene exciting.
Check out job trends, and look into job openings in both cities. Knowing about pay, job growth, and making connections is key. This helps in making a well-informed choice.
When picking between Spokane and Seattle, remember job chances are just part of it. Think about what lifestyle and city culture you want. This ensures your move is rewarding and successful.
| City | Industries | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Spokane | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing, Professional Services, Technology | Below National Average |
| Seattle | Technology, Aerospace, Arts and Culture, Finance, Healthcare | Outperforms National Average |
Climate in Spokane vs. Seattle
Choosing between Spokane and Seattle? Weather is a key point to think about. It affects your daily life and the things you can do. Let’s compare Spokane and Seattle’s climates, looking at their average temps, rainfall, and seasons.
Spokane Climate
Spokane has a continental climate. It offers four seasons. Summers are warm and dry, averaging 75°F to 85°F. There’s a moderate amount of rain then, cooling things off. Winters are cold and snowy, with temps from 25°F to 35°F. Plenty of snow means lots of winter activities.
Seattle Climate
Seattle’s marine climate is shaped by the Pacific Ocean. Summers are mild, with temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Seattle gets little rain then, perfect for outdoor fun. Winters stay mild, averaging from 41°F to 48°F. It’s wetter then, with little snowfall in the city.
Comparison
Spoakne’s summers are hotter and winters colder than Seattle’s. Spokane gets more summer rain, while Seattle has heavier winter rain. These differences stand out when comparing the two cities.
“Spokane’s continental climate provides a diverse range of seasons, from hot and dry summers to cold and snowy winters. Seattle’s marine climate offers mild summers and wet winters.”
The weather shapes what you can do in each city. Spokane’s winters are perfect for skiing, while Seattle’s summers are great for outdoor fun and water activities.
| City | Average Summer Temperature | Average Winter Temperature | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spokane | 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C) | 25°F (-4°C) to 35°F (2°C) | Moderate |
| Seattle | 65°F (18°C) to 75°F (24°C) | 41°F (5°C) to 48°F (9°C) | Relatively low (summer) / Moderate (winter) |
Your choice of city depends on what weather you like and the activities that make you happy. Spokane offers sunny summers and snowy winters. Seattle’s weather brings mild summers and soft winters. Both cities have something unique to offer.
Outdoor Activities in Spokane vs. Seattle
Both Spokane and Seattle have a lot for nature lovers. There are many things to do in the Pacific Northwest. You can hike mountains, ski, or enjoy water sports in both places.
Spokane is perfect for all who enjoy the outdoors. It’s filled with beautiful places like Riverside State Park and Mount Spokane State Park. These spots have many trails for walking or challenging hikes. You can also fish in the Spokane River or go kayaking.
If you like winter sports, Spokane has you covered. Mount Spokane Ski Area is great for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. There, you’ll find amazing views and fun slopes.
Seattle mixes city life with outdoor adventures. Because it’s near the water, you can enjoy sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The area also has beautiful coastlines and islands.
Seattle is surrounded by parks and green areas. Discovery Park offers lovely views of Puget Sound and has beaches and trails. The Olympic National Park, not far from the city, is a World Heritage Site. It has unique ecosystems, beautiful landscapes, and waterfalls.
Spokane or Seattle, both cities are great for outdoor fun. You’ll find many chances to enjoy nature, keep active, and create great memories.
Cultural and Entertainment Scene in Spokane vs. Seattle
Cultural and entertainment options make a city unique. Both Spokane and Seattle have lively cultural scenes that offer something for everyone.
In Spokane, you can explore the city’s artistic side by visiting top museums. The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture and the Jundt Art Museum are well-known. They display everything from modern art to ancient artifacts, showing the region’s history and today.
If you love live shows, Spokane has many theaters with exciting performances. The Bing Crosby Theater and the Spokane Civic Theatre are famous for their shows, including plays and concerts.
In terms of music venues, Spokane is diverse. The Knitting Factory – Spokane is great for concerts of all music types. For a smaller feel, try the Bartlett Spokane, which features indie music bands.
“Spokane’s cultural scene offers a delightful mix of old and new, with something for everyone.”
Seattle, however, is a vibrant center of culture with famous museums and landmarks. The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is a cool spot celebrating the city’s music and sci-fi culture.
For those who love theater, Seattle has the iconic Paramount Theatre and the 5th Avenue Theatre. They host Broadway shows, plays, and concerts.
Seattle is famous for its music scene. The Showbox Theater and the Seattle Symphony Orchestra are among the loved places to enjoy music.
“Seattle’s cultural scene is rich and diverse, showing the city’s creative heart.”
For festivals, both cities have a lot going on. Spokane has the Lilac Festival, which honors the city’s beauty and history. Seattle’s Bumbershoot Festival is a huge event with art and music from all over the world.
In conclusion, both Spokane and Seattle are full of cultural life. They offer a variety of experiences, from museums and shows to music and festivals. This lets people living there and visiting explore and enjoy diverse cultural activities.
Comparison of Cultural Amenities in Spokane and Seattle
| City | Museums | Theaters | Music Venues | Festivals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spokane | Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, Jundt Art Museum | Bing Crosby Theater, Spokane Civic Theatre | Knitting Factory – Spokane, The Bartlett Spokane | Lilac Festival |
| Seattle | Museum of Pop Culture, Seattle Art Museum | Paramount Theatre, 5th Avenue Theatre | Showbox Theater, Seattle Symphony Orchestra | Bumbershoot Festival |
Education in Spokane vs. Seattle
If you’re thinking about your kids’ schooling or your continued education, choosing the right place matters a lot. Let’s look at how Spokane and Seattle stack up in offering educational opportunities and institutions.
Spokane: Spokane has built a name for itself with its solid educational system. It offers a lot for students of every age. The Spokane Public Schools district runs many schools from elementary to high school. They focus on giving students a good education along with lots of extracurriculars. This area is dedicated to seeing students grow both academically and personally. Spokane also has lots of private and charter schools. These schools have unique programs and smaller classes.
In the area of higher education, Spokane shines with its many colleges and universities. Gonzaga University stands out. It’s a private Catholic university known for being one of the best in the region. Gonzaga offers many programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. This means students can get a full education and chances to grow in different ways.
Seattle: Seattle is known as a big educational center. It has a wide range of schooling options for residents. The Seattle Public Schools district is big and covers schools from elementary to high school. They’re focused on giving students a good education. In Seattle, you’ll find schools that focus on STEM and many activities outside of class.
Seattle also shines in higher education. The University of Washington is a major player in the educational scene, known nationwide. It has a lot of programs for undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. The university offers chances for research and learning from top faculty. This makes for a great learning environment for students.
Both Spokane and Seattle are strong when it comes to education. Spokane focuses on setting students up for success in primary and secondary school. Meanwhile, Seattle’s educational scene prides itself on its variety of schools and top universities. The choice between the two will come down to what you’re looking for in education and your personal preferences.
Healthcare in Spokane vs. Seattle
Deciding where to live means looking at healthcare. We will compare Spokane and Seattle’s medical systems, hospitals, and clinics.
Healthcare Systems
Spokane and Seattle both have strong healthcare services. Providence Health Care in Spokane is known for its complete medical services. · In Seattle, Swedish Health Services is famous for its many medical fields and research.
Hospitals
In Spokane, important hospitals are Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Multicare Deaconess Hospital. They have advanced care and medical technology.
Seattle’s key hospitals are University of Washington Medical Center and Swedish Medical Center. They lead in new medical treatments and have expert doctors.
Medical Facilities
There are many medical centers in both cities. Spokane’s Rockwood Clinic has many medical specialities. Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle offers personalized care and cutting-edge treatments.
| Healthcare Feature | Spokane | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitals | Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center Multicare Deaconess Hospital |
University of Washington Medical Center Swedish Medical Center |
| Healthcare Systems | Providence Health Care | Swedish Health Services |
| Medical Facilities | Rockwood Clinic | Virginia Mason Medical Center |
Spokane and Seattle have amazing healthcare. They offer great care for people. Make sure to check what each place offers to fit your medical needs.
Commute and Transportation in Spokane vs. Seattle
Living in a city means needing to get around easily. Spokane and Seattle each have their own way of tackling transportation challenges. Let’s see how they stack up in terms of getting to work and getting around.
Spokane relies heavily on cars for transportation. Its roads and highways are well-built and simplify city navigation. This setup leads to faster commutes with less traffic.
Seattle, in contrast, has more options. It boasts a strong public transport system with buses, light rail, and streetcars. This system, run by King County Metro Transit, knits the city together, making daily travel easier. If you’re into biking, you’ll find Seattle’s bike-sharing program very useful for buzzing around in an eco-friendly way.
Comparing parking in the two cities is interesting too. Spokane wins in parking availability and affordability. On the flip side, Seattle’s parking is known for being both sparse and costly, especially in the heart of the city.
Public Transportation Systems
In Spokane, the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) keeps the buses running smoothly. They offer a reliable way to get across the city. Plus, there are discounts for seniors, students, and those with disabilities.
Seattle stands out with its King County Metro Transit system. This system is extensive, sustaining a large network of buses, light rail, and streetcars. The Link Light Rail, particularly useful for traveling to Sea-Tac Airport, is a beloved feature among commuters.
Comparison of Commute Times
| City | Average Commute Time |
|---|---|
| Spokane | Approximately 20 minutes |
| Seattle | Approximately 30-45 minutes |
Spokane often wins the commute time battle with shorter averages. But don’t forget, actual travel times can change based on where you’re coming from, the routes chosen, and traffic during peak hours.
Diversity and Community in Spokane vs. Seattle
The vibe of a city can really shape your time living there. Spokane and Seattle both have unique vibes. Each offers its own flavor of diversity, making the communities different but equally interesting.
Spokane:
Spokane has been working hard to become more diverse and welcoming. Its people come from many places and bring their cultures with them. This has made Spokane a place where everyone is welcome.
The folks in Spokane are famous for being nice and making you feel like you belong. They do lots of things together, like events and projects, which help them grow closer as a community.
Seattle:
Seattle is a big, diverse city known for always moving forward. People from all around the world live here. The city supports everyone’s rights and works for fairness in Seattle and beyond.
Seattle’s residents are really involved in making their city better. They show up at events, speak out, and help others. This strong spirit helps the city keep pushing for good change.
Comparison:
Spokane and Seattle love their diverse crowds and all the unique things people bring. Seattle, being bigger and more forward-thinking, has a wide mix of cultures. Spokane, though smaller, focuses on being very close as a community.
| Spokane | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Diversity | Welcomes individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and ethnicities | Melting pot of different cultures and international community |
| Community Engagement | Strong sense of togetherness with numerous community events and initiatives | Active participation in community events, protests, and volunteer work |
Choosing between Spokane and Seattle is all about what you like in a community. If you enjoy close friendships in a smaller city, Spokane might be perfect for you. But if you’re drawn to the energy and diversity of a bigger city, Seattle is a great choice. Both places work hard to be welcoming and inclusive.
Conclusion
Now, you have a good view of both Spokane and Seattle. You looked at factors like cost of living, jobs, and climate. Each city shines in its own way, from costs to culture.
To pick the best city for you, think about what you love. Want a chill, affordable life near nature? Spokane could be your go-to. But if an exciting city life and plenty of job options sound appealing, Seattle shines.
Choosing between Spokane and Seattle means picking what matters most to you in a home. Both offer great things, so research and visit them. This guide hopes to help you choose wisely – Spokane or Seattle.
