Best Cities for Veterans in Washington 2025: Cost of Living & Benefits

Bottom Line Up Front

Spokane offers the best overall value for Washington veterans in 2025: median home price of $370,000-390,000 (lowest among major cities), average rent of $1,156/month, full-service VA medical center, solid employment opportunities, and low cost of living (28% below state average). Tacoma is the sweet spot for JBLM-area veterans: median home price $499,000, rent $1,487/month, excellent VA healthcare access at American Lake, strong veteran community, and growing job market at only 10% below Seattle's cost. Seattle offers the highest salaries ($90,000-140,000 in tech) but brutal housing costs (median $856,000-980,000, rent $1,945-3,850/month) that eat those gains unless you're 100% disabled and qualify for maximum property tax exemptions.

Quick city rankings (1-10, best to worst for overall veteran value):

Spokane - Best affordability, full VA medical center, decent jobs
Tacoma - JBLM proximity, excellent VA access, mid-range costs
Vancouver - No Oregon income tax, near Portland jobs, reasonable costs
Olympia - State capital jobs, JBLM access, median home $516,000
Everett - Boeing jobs, growing market, median home $618,000
Spokane Valley - Spokane suburb, slightly cheaper, good schools
Bellingham - Quality of life, college town, but remote and expensive ($688,000)
Renton - Seattle suburb, diverse, but pricey (near Seattle levels)
Bellevue - Highest salaries, but median home $1.5M (only for high earners)
Seattle - Best jobs/highest pay, but cost of living crushes most budgets

The honest truth: If you're making under $80,000/year, avoid Seattle/Bellevue. If you value affordability and still want full VA access and decent jobs, Spokane or Tacoma are your best bets. If you're transitioning from JBLM and want to stay near the base/community, Tacoma, Olympia, or Lakewood make the most sense.

Ranking Methodology: What We Measured

We evaluated 10 Washington cities for veterans based on:

Housing affordability: Median home prices, average rent, property taxes
VA healthcare access: Proximity to VA medical centers and community clinics
Employment opportunities: Veteran unemployment rates, major employers, average salaries
Veteran population: Size of veteran community, support infrastructure
Quality of life: Safety, education, recreation, climate
Tax benefits: Property tax exemption value, overall tax burden for veterans

Sources: Redfin, RentCafe, Apartments.com, VA.gov, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Washington Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington OFM population data (2024-2025).

1. Spokane: Best Overall Value for Washington Veterans

Overall Grade: A-

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $370,000-390,000 (lowest among major WA cities)
Average rent: $1,156/month (Apartment List) to $1,389/month (RentCafe)
Property tax rate: ~1.0%
Annual property tax (median home): $3,800

VA Healthcare:

Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center: 4815 N Assembly Street, Spokane, WA 99205
Phone: (509) 434-7000
Services: Full medical center with inpatient/outpatient care, mental health, surgery, specialty care
Spokane Valley VA Clinic: 12509 E Mirabeau Parkway
Wenatchee VA Clinic: 2530 Chester Kimm Road (1 hour west)

Employment:

Major employers: Providence Health, MultiCare, Fairchild Air Force Base, Spokane Public Schools, Washington State University Spokane
Tech sector: Growing but smaller than Seattle
Healthcare: Strong sector with multiple hospital systems
Logistics: Amazon fulfillment center, warehousing
Average veteran salary: $45,000-70,000 (varies by field)

Veteran Population:

Spokane County veteran population: Estimated 28,000-32,000 veterans
Strong VFW and American Legion presence
Active veteran community and support organizations

Cost of Living:

28% lower than Washington state average
4% lower than national average
Cheapest major city in Washington

Pros

Affordability is king:

Median home price nearly $500,000 less than Seattle
Rent is $800-2,700/month cheaper than Seattle
Property taxes on median home: $3,800 vs. $10,290 in King County
Your military retirement goes much further here

Full VA medical center on-site:

No need to drive hours for specialty care
Mann-Grandstaff offers comprehensive services
Mental health programs, PTSD treatment
Short wait times compared to Seattle VA

Strong veteran community:

Large population of Air Force veterans (Fairchild AFB nearby)
Excellent VFW/American Legion chapters
Veteran-owned businesses throughout city
Annual veteran events and support

Quality of life:

Four true seasons (cold winters, warm summers)
Outdoor recreation: hiking, skiing, lakes, Spokane River
Low traffic compared to Seattle
Family-friendly neighborhoods
Good schools in many areas

No state income tax advantage:

Save $3,000-5,000/year compared to neighboring states
Military retirement pay 100% untaxed by state

Cons

Limited high-paying job market:

Tech salaries lag Seattle by $30,000-60,000
Fewer Fortune 500 companies
If you're transitioning to high-end tech career, Seattle pays more (but costs more)

Smaller overall economy:

Fewer total jobs than Seattle/Tacoma metro
Less diversity in employment sectors
Career advancement can be limited in some fields

Cold winters:

Average January high: 34°F
Snowfall: 40-50 inches per year
Not for those seeking mild year-round weather

Distance from JBLM:

280 miles from Joint Base Lewis-McChord
If you're separating from JBLM and want to stay close, Spokane is far
4.5-hour drive to Puget Sound region

Limited public transit:

Car-dependent city
Spokane Transit exists but limited compared to Seattle

Best For

Veterans prioritizing affordability over high salaries
Retirees who want their pension to stretch
Families wanting homeownership without crushing debt
Those who prefer smaller cities with four seasons
Air Force veterans (Fairchild AFB connections)
Anyone needing full VA medical center access without Seattle prices

Verdict

Spokane is the best overall value in Washington for most veterans. If you're earning $40,000-80,000/year (retirement pay, VA disability, modest civilian job), you can own a home, live comfortably, and save money in Spokane. You can't say that about Seattle or Bellevue. The VA healthcare is excellent, the veteran community is strong, and your cost of living is the lowest in the state. Unless you're earning $120,000+ in tech, Spokane beats Seattle on quality of life per dollar spent.

2. Tacoma: The JBLM Veteran Sweet Spot

Overall Grade: A

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $499,000 (up 2.5% year-over-year)
Average rent: $1,487-1,760/month
Property tax rate: ~1.1%
Annual property tax (median home): $5,489

VA Healthcare:

American Lake VA Medical Center: 9600 Veterans Drive SW, Tacoma, WA 98493
Phone: (253) 582-8440 or (800) 329-8387
Services: Full medical center, residential mental health programs, PTSD treatment, substance abuse rehab
Puyallup VA Clinic: 11216 Sunrise Blvd E
Renton VA Clinic, Seattle VA Medical Center also nearby

Employment:

Joint Base Lewis-McChord: 10 miles south (major employer, Reserve/Guard opportunities)
Major employers: MultiCare Health, CHI Franciscan, Tacoma Public Schools, State of Washington, Amazon (fulfillment), Metro Parks Tacoma
Port of Tacoma: Logistics and maritime jobs
Average veteran salary: $50,000-80,000

Veteran Population:

Pierce County veteran population: 50,000+ veterans
Among the highest veteran populations in Washington
Driven by JBLM proximity

Cost of Living:

10% less than Seattle
Higher than Spokane, but much more affordable than Seattle/Bellevue
Good balance of affordability and opportunity

Pros

Best proximity to JBLM:

Just 10 miles to the base
Easy transition for separating service members
Strong Reserve/Guard opportunities
Huge veteran community (friends/network from active duty)

Excellent VA healthcare:

American Lake VA Medical Center is one of the best in the region
Specialized residential PTSD treatment program
Substance abuse rehab programs
Short drive to Seattle VA for additional specialty services

Strong job market for veterans:

JBLM contractor jobs (logistics, training, support)
State government (Olympia 30 miles south)
Healthcare (MultiCare, CHI Franciscan hire many veterans)
Port of Tacoma (logistics, maritime, trucking)
Amazon fulfillment (entry-level $40,000-50,000)

Housing affordability (relative to Seattle):

Median home price $480,000 less than Seattle
Can actually afford a house on E-6/E-7 retirement + civilian job
Many JBLM veterans buy here after separation

Strong veteran support infrastructure:

VFW/American Legion posts
Veteran service organizations
JBLM connection means built-in community
Military-friendly businesses

Quality of life:

Waterfront access (Puget Sound)
Point Defiance Park (700+ acres)
Museums, zoo, aquarium
Revitalized downtown
Good schools in North Tacoma/University Place

Cons

Higher crime than suburbs:

Some neighborhoods have elevated property crime
Research areas before buying (North Tacoma, University Place, Fircrest are safer)
Avoid certain South Tacoma areas

Still expensive for lower-income veterans:

$499,000 median home is out of reach for some
Rent of $1,500-1,800 for 2BR requires $60,000+ income
Not as budget-friendly as Spokane

Traffic to Seattle:

35 miles to Seattle, but can take 1-2 hours in traffic
I-5 is frequently congested
If you work in Seattle, commute is brutal

Weather:

Rainy 8-9 months/year (typical Western WA)
Overcast much of the year
If you need sunshine, this isn't it

Best For

JBLM separating service members who want to stay near the base/community
Veterans prioritizing VA healthcare access
Those seeking balance between affordability and opportunity
Military families who want to stay near JBLM schools/friends
Logistics and healthcare professionals

Verdict

Tacoma is the best choice for JBLM-area veterans. It offers the perfect balance: affordable enough to buy a home on military retirement + modest civilian salary, close enough to JBLM to maintain community ties, excellent VA healthcare at American Lake, and solid employment in healthcare, logistics, and government. If you're separating from JBLM and want to stay in the area, Tacoma or nearby Lakewood/University Place should be your first choice.

3. Vancouver: Tax Benefits + Portland Access

Overall Grade: B+

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $490,000 (up 2.1% year-over-year)
Average rent: $1,781/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0-1.1%
Annual property tax (median home): $5,000-5,400

VA Healthcare:

Vancouver VA Medical Center: 1601 E Fourth Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661
Phone: (360) 759-1901
Services: Full medical center (part of VA Portland Health Care)
Portland VA Medical Center: 15 miles south in Oregon

Employment:

Major employers: PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, Evergreen Public Schools, Columbia River Paper, Nautilus Inc., WaFd Bank
Portland metro access: 10 miles to downtown Portland
Tech jobs in Portland: Nike, Intel, Adidas, Columbia Sportswear
Average veteran salary: $50,000-75,000

Veteran Population:

Clark County veteran population: 22,000-26,000 veterans
Growing veteran community

Cost of Living:

Comparable to Tacoma
Key advantage: Live in WA (no state income tax), work in OR if desired

Pros

Best tax situation in the region:

No Washington state income tax (save $3,000-5,000/year vs. Oregon residents)
Access to Portland job market across river
Many veterans live in Vancouver, work in Portland, and pay $0 state income tax
This is a huge financial advantage

Full VA medical center:

Vancouver VA offers comprehensive care
Portland VA also accessible (15 minutes)
Two VA medical centers within 15 miles

Access to Portland metro job market:

Tech: Intel (Hillsboro, OR), Nike (Beaverton, OR)
Healthcare: Oregon Health & Science University, Legacy Health
Manufacturing: Precision Castparts (aerospace)
Salaries competitive with Seattle in some sectors

No sales tax in Oregon:

Drive 10 minutes to Oregon, shop with no sales tax
Washington residents can shop in Oregon sales-tax-free
Save $70-200/month on groceries, goods

Quality of life:

Milder climate than Eastern WA (but still rainy)
Columbia River waterfront
Outdoor recreation: Gorge, Mt. Hood, coast
Good schools in many areas
Less congested than Seattle

Cons

Oregon income tax if you work in Oregon:

If you work in Portland, you pay Oregon state income tax (variable rates up to 9.9%)
This negates the WA no-income-tax advantage
You're only saving if you work in WA or are retired

Limited high-paying jobs in Vancouver itself:

Most big employers are in Portland (Oregon side)
Vancouver jobs often pay less than Seattle/Bellevue
Career advancement may require working in Oregon (and paying their income tax)

Housing costs rising:

Median home approaching $500,000
Not as affordable as Spokane
Rent $1,781 requires $70,000+ income

Far from JBLM:

130 miles north to JBLM
If you're separating from JBLM, Vancouver is distant
Less military community feel than Tacoma/Olympia

Traffic to Portland:

I-5 and I-205 bridges to Oregon are heavily congested during rush hour
Commute to Portland can be 30-60 minutes
Bridge tolls proposed (not yet implemented)

Best For

Retired veterans who want no state income tax + access to a major metro area
Veterans working remote jobs (live in WA, pay $0 state income tax)
Those who want Portland access without Oregon taxes
Families seeking good schools and outdoor recreation
Anyone willing to shop in Oregon for sales tax savings

Verdict

Vancouver is the best tax-optimization choice for Washington veterans. If you're retired or work remotely, you get zero state income tax, access to Portland's economy and culture, and sales-tax-free shopping across the river. However, if you work in Oregon, you'll pay Oregon income tax and lose the advantage. For retirees or remote workers, Vancouver is excellent. For active workers, it depends on where your job is.

4. Olympia: State Capital + JBLM Access

Overall Grade: B+

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $516,000-568,000 (varies by source, up 1.1-3.3% year-over-year)
Average rent: $1,600-1,900/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0-1.1%
Annual property tax (median home): $5,300-5,700

VA Healthcare:

Olympia VA Clinic: 500 Lilly Road NE, Suites 201-202, Olympia, WA 98506
Phone: (253) 583-2621
Services: Primary care, mental health, telehealth
American Lake VA Medical Center (Tacoma): 30 miles north for full services

Employment:

State of Washington government: Largest employer (veteran hiring preference)
Major employers: Providence St. Peter Hospital, Thurston County, Olympia School District, The Evergreen State College
JBLM: 35 miles north (commutable)
Average veteran salary: $50,000-80,000 (higher for state jobs)

Veteran Population:

Thurston County veteran population: 30,811 veterans
Driven by JBLM separations (60%+ stay in Thurston County)

Cost of Living:

Median home value ($532,236) nearly half of Seattle's ($871,963)
Affordable compared to Seattle, but pricier than Spokane

Pros

State government jobs with veteran preference:

Washington state gives veteran hiring preference for state positions
Olympia is the state capital—thousands of state jobs
Salaries: $45,000-90,000+ depending on role
Excellent benefits, pension, job security

JBLM proximity:

35 miles (30-45 minute drive)
Many JBLM veterans settle here
Strong military community

Access to VA healthcare:

Olympia VA Clinic for primary care
American Lake VA Medical Center 30 minutes away
Seattle VA 60 minutes north

Quality of life:

State capital amenities
Puget Sound waterfront
The Evergreen State College (quirky, progressive vibe)
Farmer's markets, local culture
Low crime in most areas

Moderate housing costs:

Median home $516,000-568,000 is high, but half of Seattle's
Achievable for dual-income veteran households
Better than Seattle/Bellevue, worse than Spokane

Cons

Housing still expensive:

$516,000-568,000 median is out of reach for many single-income veterans
Rent $1,600-1,900 requires $65,000-75,000 income

Smaller job market:

Heavy reliance on state government
Limited private sector jobs
If you're laid off, options are limited
Tech jobs nearly non-existent

Weather:

Rainy, overcast 8-9 months/year
Less sun than Eastern WA

No full VA medical center:

Must drive to Tacoma for specialty care, surgery, inpatient services
Olympia VA Clinic is primary care only

Traffic to Seattle/Tacoma:

Growing congestion on I-5
Commute to Seattle: 60-90 minutes
Commute to JBLM: 30-45 minutes (tolerable)

Best For

Veterans seeking state government employment
JBLM separating service members who want a smaller city vibe
Families valuing education and quality of life
Those who want JBLM proximity without Tacoma's urban feel

Verdict

Olympia is ideal for veterans targeting state government careers. With veteran hiring preference, stable jobs, good benefits, and proximity to JBLM and VA healthcare, Olympia offers a solid middle ground. It's not as affordable as Spokane or as job-rich as Seattle, but it delivers stability and quality of life for veterans willing to work in the public sector.

5. Everett: Boeing Jobs + Growing Market

Overall Grade: B

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $618,000-648,000 (up 2.9-7.1% year-over-year)
Average rent: $1,800-2,100/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0-1.1%
Annual property tax (median home): $6,400-6,700

VA Healthcare:

Everett VA Clinic: 220 Olympic Blvd, Everett, WA 98203
Phone: (425) 683-0545
Services: Primary care, mental health
Seattle VA Medical Center: 30 miles south for full services

Employment:

Boeing: Largest employer (Everett plant builds 747, 767, 777, 787)
Major employers: Providence Regional Medical Center, Naval Station Everett, Everett Public Schools, Snohomish County
Tech: Growing sector, Microsoft/Amazon workers commute from here
Average veteran salary: $55,000-90,000 (higher for Boeing engineers/mechanics)

Veteran Population:

Snohomish County veteran population: 35,000-40,000 veterans
Naval Station Everett drives military community

Cost of Living:

Higher than Spokane, Tacoma, Olympia
Lower than Seattle/Bellevue
Competitive housing market (homes sell fast)

Pros

Boeing jobs for veterans:

15% of Boeing workforce are veterans (13,500+ hired since 2010)
Excellent opportunities for aircraft mechanics, quality inspectors, engineers
Salaries: $50,000-95,000 for mechanics, $85,000-140,000 for engineers
Military aircraft maintenance experience directly transferable

Naval Station Everett:

Active duty Navy base
Reserve opportunities
Military community presence

Access to Seattle job market:

30 miles to Seattle (45-90 minute commute)
Can work in Seattle, live in Everett for lower housing costs
Growing local tech sector

Quality of life:

Waterfront access (Puget Sound)
Parks and recreation
Improving downtown
Good schools in North Everett

VA clinic on-site:

Primary care and mental health locally
Seattle VA 30 minutes for specialty care

Cons

Expensive housing:

Median home $618,000-648,000 is tough for most veterans
Rent $1,800-2,100 requires $70,000-85,000 income
Homes often sell in under a week with multiple offers (very competitive)

Boeing layoffs:

Boeing has had multiple rounds of layoffs (15,000 in 2025 across company)
Job security concerns
If Boeing is your only option, risky

Traffic:

I-5 congestion to Seattle is brutal
Commute can be 90+ minutes in rush hour
Limited public transit

No full VA medical center:

Must drive to Seattle VA for specialty care
Everett clinic is primary care only

Weather:

Rainy, overcast most of the year

Best For

Veterans with aircraft maintenance experience targeting Boeing
Navy veterans (Naval Station Everett connection)
Those willing to commute to Seattle for higher pay
Families wanting Seattle access without Seattle prices (though Everett is still pricey)

Verdict

Everett is great if you're working at Boeing or Naval Station Everett. The veteran hiring at Boeing is strong, salaries are good, and the community is solid. However, housing costs are high, and if Boeing isn't your employer, Everett's value proposition weakens. For Boeing-bound veterans, it's a B+. For everyone else, it's a B- due to cost.

6. Spokane Valley: Spokane Suburb Alternative

Overall Grade: B

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $360,000-380,000 (slightly cheaper than Spokane)
Average rent: $1,100-1,300/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0%
Annual property tax: $3,700

VA Healthcare:

Spokane Valley VA Clinic: 12509 E Mirabeau Parkway, Suite 100, Spokane Valley, WA 99216
Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center (Spokane): 10 miles west

Employment:

Suburban/bedroom community
Many residents commute to Spokane
Major employers: Walmart, retail, services
Average salary: $40,000-65,000

Veteran Population:

Part of Spokane County's 28,000-32,000 veterans

Cost of Living:

Slightly cheaper than Spokane
Very affordable overall

Pros

Cheapest housing in the rankings ($360,000-380,000)
Access to Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center (10 minutes)
Quieter, more suburban feel than Spokane
Good schools (Central Valley School District)
Family-friendly

Cons

Limited jobs (most commute to Spokane)
Fewer amenities than Spokane
More car-dependent
Less walkable/urban

Best For

Veterans prioritizing maximum affordability
Families wanting good schools + quiet suburbs
Retirees on fixed income

Verdict

Spokane Valley is Spokane's cheaper, quieter sibling. If you want the lowest housing costs and don't mind a suburban, car-dependent lifestyle, it's a solid choice. However, most veterans would prefer Spokane proper for better amenities and walkability.

7. Bellingham: Quality of Life + College Town Vibe

Overall Grade: B-

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $688,000 (up 1.2-3.1% year-over-year)
Average rent: $1,700-2,000/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0%
Annual property tax (median home): $6,880

VA Healthcare:

Mount Vernon VA Clinic: 307 S 13th Street, Suite 200, Mount Vernon, WA 98274 (30 miles south)
Phone: (360) 848-8500
Seattle VA Medical Center: 90 miles south for full services

Employment:

Major employers: PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, Western Washington University, Bellingham Public Schools, Alcoa Intalco Works
Tourism and outdoor industry
Limited tech sector
Average veteran salary: $45,000-70,000

Veteran Population:

Whatcom County veteran population: 10,000-12,000 veterans (smaller community)

Cost of Living:

High housing costs
Remote location limits some expenses
College town keeps some prices competitive

Pros

Outstanding quality of life:

Beautiful setting (mountains, water, islands)
Outdoor recreation: hiking, skiing, kayaking, sailing
College town culture (Western Washington University)
Arts, music, local food scene
Friendly, progressive community

Proximity to Canada:

30 minutes to Vancouver, BC
International travel/culture access

Clean, safe city:

Low crime
Good schools
Family-friendly

VA clinic access:

Mount Vernon VA Clinic 30 miles south

Cons

Expensive and remote:

Median home $688,000 is very high for limited job market
90 miles to Seattle
If you need specialty VA care, it's a 90-mile drive to Seattle VA
Limited career opportunities

Small veteran community:

Fewer veterans than Spokane, Tacoma, Olympia
Less veteran infrastructure

Limited jobs:

Heavily reliant on healthcare, education, tourism
Tech jobs nearly nonexistent
Lower salaries than Seattle

No full VA medical center:

Must drive 90 miles to Seattle for specialty care, surgery

Best For

Retirees prioritizing quality of life over career
Outdoor enthusiasts
Those who want small-city charm
Veterans comfortable with remote VA access

Verdict

Bellingham is for veterans who value quality of life over affordability or career. It's beautiful, safe, and culturally rich, but the $688,000 median home price and remote location make it impractical for most working-age veterans. Great for retirees with significant savings or remote workers, but tough for everyone else.

8. Renton: Seattle Suburb with Diversity

Overall Grade: C+

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $675,000-750,000
Average rent: $1,900-2,400/month
Property tax rate: ~1.05%
Annual property tax: $7,000-7,900

VA Healthcare:

Renton VA Clinic: 419 S 2nd Street, Suite 2, Renton, WA 98057
Seattle VA Medical Center: 10 miles north

Employment:

Boeing Renton plant: 737 production
Major employers: Valley Medical Center, IKEA, The Landing retail
Many residents commute to Seattle/Bellevue
Average veteran salary: $60,000-100,000

Veteran Population:

Part of King County's large veteran population

Cost of Living:

Nearly as expensive as Seattle
Better value than Bellevue

Pros

Boeing jobs (737 plant)
Diverse community
Close to Seattle VA
Public transit (Link light rail coming)

Cons

Very expensive ($675,000-750,000 median home)
High rent ($1,900-2,400)
Traffic to Seattle
Not much cheaper than Seattle itself

Best For

Boeing 737 workers
Those who want Seattle access with slightly lower costs

Verdict

Renton is expensive without Seattle's job market. Unless you work at Boeing Renton, you're better off in Tacoma (cheaper) or Seattle proper (more jobs). It's a C+ value for veterans—not terrible, but not great.

9. Bellevue: Highest Salaries, Highest Costs

Overall Grade: C

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $1.5 million (down 7.8% from peak, still astronomical)
Average rent: $2,500-3,500/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0%
Annual property tax (median home): $15,000

VA Healthcare:

Seattle VA Medical Center: 10 miles west
No Bellevue VA clinic

Employment:

Major employers: Microsoft, Amazon, T-Mobile, Salesforce, Meta, Valve
Tech salaries: $120,000-250,000+ for mid-to-senior engineers
Average veteran salary (tech): $100,000-180,000

Veteran Population:

Part of King County veteran population

Cost of Living:

Highest in Washington state
Only viable for high earners

Pros

Highest salaries in Washington:

Tech jobs paying $120,000-250,000+
If you're a skilled software engineer/cloud architect, this is where the money is

Excellent schools:

Bellevue School District is top-rated

Low crime, safe:

One of safest cities in WA

Access to Seattle VA:

10 miles to Seattle VA Medical Center

Cons

Unaffordable for most veterans:

$1.5M median home is out of reach unless you're earning $200,000+ household
Rent $2,500-3,500 requires $100,000-140,000 income
Property taxes $15,000/year even with exemption

Cost of living eats salary gains:

Yes, you make $150,000, but housing costs $4,000/month
Net savings often less than earning $70,000 in Spokane with $1,500/month housing

No VA clinic:

Must drive to Seattle

Best For

High-earning tech veterans (software engineers making $120,000+)
Veterans with substantial savings/retirement income
Those prioritizing schools over affordability

Verdict

Bellevue is only for high earners. If you're a veteran transitioning into a $120,000+ tech job (Microsoft MSSA grad, for example), Bellevue makes sense. For everyone else, the cost of living is prohibitive. Grade: C because it only works for a narrow slice of veterans.

10. Seattle: Best Jobs, Worst Affordability

Overall Grade: C

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $856,000-980,000 (varies by neighborhood)
Average rent: $1,945/month (1BR) to $3,850/month (3BR)
Property tax rate: ~1.05%
Annual property tax (median home): $9,000-10,290

VA Healthcare:

Seattle VA Medical Center: 1660 S Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108
Phone: (206) 762-1010 or (800) 329-8387
Services: Full medical center with all specialties

Employment:

Major employers: Amazon, Microsoft (Redmond), Boeing, Starbucks, UW Medicine, Nordstrom, Alaska Airlines, Zillow, Expedia
Tech salaries: $90,000-200,000+ (mid-to-senior)
Healthcare: $60,000-120,000
Average veteran salary (tech): $95,000-150,000

Veteran Population:

King County veteran population: 50,000-60,000+ (one of largest in state)

Cost of Living:

Most expensive city in Washington
Cost of living index 50% above national average

Pros

Best job market in Washington:

More tech jobs than anywhere else in the state
Amazon HQ, Microsoft nearby, hundreds of startups
Salaries: $90,000-200,000+ for tech
Healthcare jobs: UW Medicine, Swedish, Virginia Mason

Full VA medical center:

Seattle VA offers every specialty
Excellent care quality
Research and teaching hospital

Public transit:

Link light rail, buses
More walkable than most WA cities

Culture and amenities:

World-class restaurants, arts, music, museums
Pro sports (Seahawks, Mariners, Sounders, Kraken)
Tons of things to do

Largest veteran community:

50,000-60,000 veterans in King County
Extensive veteran services

Cons

Brutally expensive housing:

Median home $856,000-980,000 is unaffordable for most veterans
To buy median home, you need $170,000-200,000 household income
Rent $1,945-3,850/month requires $80,000-150,000 income

Property taxes crush budgets:

$9,000-10,290/year on median home
Even with veteran exemption, you're paying thousands

High cost of living:

Groceries, dining, entertainment all expensive
Your $100,000 salary feels like $60,000 after housing

Traffic and congestion:

Among worst traffic in U.S.
Commutes 60-90 minutes common
Parking expensive

Weather:

Rainy, overcast 9 months/year
Seasonal Affective Disorder common

Homelessness and crime:

Visible homelessness in many areas
Property crime rates high
Some neighborhoods unsafe

Best For

High-earning tech veterans ($100,000+ salaries)
Veterans prioritizing career advancement over affordability
Those who want maximum culture/amenities
Single veterans who can afford a studio/1BR

Worst For

Veterans on fixed income (retirement/disability only)
Families needing 3+ bedrooms
Those prioritizing affordability and homeownership

Verdict

Seattle offers the best jobs and worst affordability. If you're earning $120,000+ in tech, Seattle can work—but you'll still struggle with housing costs. For veterans earning under $80,000, Seattle is financially brutal. You'll spend 50-70% of income on housing and have little left. Unless you're a high earner or 100% disabled with maximum property tax exemption, choose Tacoma or Spokane instead. Grade: C because it only works for high earners.

Comparative Table: All 10 Cities at a Glance

City	Median Home Price	Avg Rent (2BR)	Property Tax (Median)	VA Access	Best Job Sector	Veteran Pop	Overall Grade
Spokane	$370K-390K	$1,156-1,389	$3,800	Full VA Medical Center	Healthcare, Government	28K-32K	A-
Tacoma	$499K	$1,487-1,760	$5,489	Full VA Medical Center (American Lake)	Healthcare, Logistics, JBLM	50K+	A
Vancouver	$490K	$1,781	$5,000-5,400	Full VA Medical Center	Portland Metro Access	22K-26K	B+
Olympia	$516K-568K	$1,600-1,900	$5,300-5,700	VA Clinic (Tacoma VA 30 min)	State Government	30,811	B+
Everett	$618K-648K	$1,800-2,100	$6,400-6,700	VA Clinic (Seattle VA 30 min)	Boeing, Healthcare	35K-40K	B
Spokane Valley	$360K-380K	$1,100-1,300	$3,700	VA Clinic (Spokane VA 10 min)	Suburban/Retail	Part of Spokane Co.	B
Bellingham	$688K	$1,700-2,000	$6,880	VA Clinic (Mount Vernon 30 min)	Healthcare, Education	10K-12K	B-
Renton	$675K-750K	$1,900-2,400	$7,000-7,900	VA Clinic (Seattle VA 10 min)	Boeing 737	Part of King Co.	C+
Bellevue	$1.5M	$2,500-3,500	$15,000	Seattle VA 10 min	Tech (Microsoft, Amazon)	Part of King Co.	C
Seattle	$856K-980K	$1,945-3,850	$9,000-10,290	Full VA Medical Center	Tech, Healthcare	50K-60K+	C

Special Considerations for Veterans

Property Tax Exemptions Change the Math

If you're 80%+ disabled, Washington's property tax exemption can save you $3,000-10,000/year depending on county and home value. This changes the affordability equation:

Example: 100% disabled veteran in King County (Seattle)

Median home: $980,000
Standard property tax: $10,290/year
With exemption (income under $84,000): $875/year
Savings: $9,415/year

This makes Seattle/Bellevue more viable IF:

You're 100% P&T disabled
Your household income (excluding VA disability) is under $84,000
You can afford the down payment and mortgage

However: You still need to qualify for a mortgage on $980,000, which requires significant income or savings. The exemption helps, but doesn't solve the affordability problem entirely.

JBLM Transition Considerations

If you're separating from JBLM, 60%+ of service members stay in Thurston County (Olympia area). Here's why:

Community: Your friends/network from JBLM are here
Schools: Kids don't have to change schools
Reserve/Guard: Easy to continue service
VA healthcare: American Lake VA is 30 minutes north
Employment: State government, JBLM contractor jobs

Best JBLM transition cities:

Tacoma (10 miles north)
Lakewood (adjacent to JBLM)
Olympia (35 miles south)
Puyallup (20 miles north)

Remote Work Changes Everything

If you're a remote worker, Washington's no state income tax is a massive advantage:

Work for California company: Earn CA salary, pay $0 state income tax
Work for any remote employer: Keep 100% of income (no state tax)

Best remote work cities:

Spokane (lowest cost, full VA)
Vancouver (no state income tax + Portland culture)
Bellingham (quality of life)
Olympia (balance)

Veteran Population Matters

Why veteran population size matters:

Larger communities = better VFW/American Legion chapters
More veteran-owned businesses
Stronger support networks
Politicians pay attention (voting bloc)

Largest veteran populations:

King County (Seattle area): 50,000-60,000+
Pierce County (Tacoma area): 50,000+
Snohomish County (Everett area): 35,000-40,000
Thurston County (Olympia area): 30,811
Spokane County: 28,000-32,000

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What's the best city for veterans in Washington overall? A: Spokane for affordability and full VA access, Tacoma for JBLM-area veterans, Seattle for high earners only. It depends on your priorities.

Q: I'm separating from JBLM. Where should I live? A: Tacoma (closest to base, 10 miles), Lakewood (adjacent), or Olympia (35 miles, state government jobs). 60%+ of JBLM separations stay in Thurston County.

Q: I'm 100% disabled on a fixed income. Which city can I afford? A: Spokane or Spokane Valley (cheapest housing, full VA). You can buy a $370,000 home on VA disability + retirement pay. Seattle/Bellevue are too expensive even with property tax exemption.

Q: I'm a software engineer earning $120,000. Where should I live? A: Seattle or Bellevue (highest salaries, most opportunities). You can afford the housing costs at that income level.

Q: Which city has the best VA healthcare? A: Seattle VA is the flagship (full research hospital, all specialties), but American Lake (Tacoma) and Mann-Grandstaff (Spokane) are also excellent full medical centers. All three are top-tier.

Q: I want to avoid Seattle traffic. Where should I live? A: Spokane (no Seattle traffic), Bellingham (90 miles from Seattle), or Walla Walla (not ranked, but very remote).

Q: Which city has the best schools for my kids? A: Bellevue (Bellevue School District is top-rated statewide), North Tacoma/University Place, Spokane (some excellent districts like Mead, Central Valley).

Q: I want outdoor recreation. Best city? A: Spokane (skiing, lakes, hiking), Bellingham (mountains, water, trails), Tacoma (Point Defiance, waterfront), Olympia (Puget Sound, forests).

Q: Can I live in Washington and work in Oregon without paying Oregon income tax? A: Only if you work remotely or for a WA employer. If you physically work in Oregon, you pay Oregon income tax regardless of where you live.

Q: I'm retired with $50,000/year total income. Where can I live comfortably? A: Spokane (best overall value), Spokane Valley (cheapest), Tacoma (if you need Puget Sound access). Avoid Seattle/Bellevue.

Q: Which city has the lowest property taxes? A: Spokane/Spokane Valley (lowest home values = lowest taxes, ~$3,700-3,800/year on median home).

Q: I need a full VA medical center, not just a clinic. Which cities? A: Seattle (Seattle VA), Tacoma (American Lake VA), Spokane (Mann-Grandstaff VA), Vancouver (Vancouver VA). All others have clinics only.

Q: I'm separating from the Navy. Best city? A: Everett (Naval Station Everett) or Bremerton (Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, not ranked but worth considering).

Q: Is Tacoma safe? A: Parts of Tacoma have elevated crime. North Tacoma, University Place, Fircrest, and Browns Point are safe. Avoid certain South Tacoma neighborhoods. Research before buying.

Q: What's the most veteran-friendly city culturally? A: Tacoma and Olympia (JBLM proximity = huge veteran populations and infrastructure). Spokane also very veteran-friendly (Fairchild AFB).

Q: I hate rain. Where should I live? A: Spokane or Spokane Valley (Eastern WA = much less rain, more sun). Everywhere west of the Cascades is rainy 8-9 months/year.

The Verdict: Which City is Right for You?

Choose SPOKANE if you want:

Maximum affordability ($370K-390K median home, $1,156 rent)
Full VA medical center
Four seasons and more sunshine
Strong veteran community
Your dollars to go the furthest

Choose TACOMA if you want:

JBLM proximity and military community
Excellent VA healthcare (American Lake)
Balance of affordability and opportunity
Puget Sound access
Easy transition from active duty

Choose VANCOUVER if you want:

Zero state income tax + Portland metro access
Tax optimization (live in WA, shop in OR)
Full VA medical center
Moderate housing costs
Access to major city without living in it

Choose OLYMPIA if you want:

State government employment (veteran hiring preference)
JBLM access (35 miles)
State capital amenities
Moderate costs
Strong veteran community

Choose SEATTLE if you want:

Highest salaries ($90K-200K+ in tech)
Best job market in WA
Maximum culture/amenities
Full VA medical center
AND you're earning $100,000+

AVOID Seattle/Bellevue if:

You're earning under $80,000
You prioritize affordability
You want to own a home on military retirement alone
You're on a fixed income

Final Recommendation: The Top 3 for Most Veterans

1. Spokane - Best overall value. If you're earning $40,000-80,000 and want affordability + full VA + quality of life, Spokane wins.

2. Tacoma - Best for JBLM-area veterans. Proximity to base, excellent VA, strong community, mid-range costs.

3. Vancouver - Best for tax optimization. Live in WA (no income tax), access Portland, shop in OR (no sales tax).

Honorable mention: Olympia (state jobs), Everett (Boeing).

Avoid unless high earner: Seattle, Bellevue.

Washington offers veterans incredible tax benefits (zero state income tax!), excellent VA healthcare, and strong employment—but you must choose the right city. Don't let Seattle's high salaries lure you into financial ruin. Run the numbers. Factor in housing costs. And remember: The best city is the one where you can afford to live comfortably, access VA care, and build the life you want after service.

You served your country. Now make your dollars serve you. Choose wisely.

Bottom Line Up Front

Quick city rankings (1-10, best to worst for overall veteran value):

Spokane - Best affordability, full VA medical center, decent jobs
Tacoma - JBLM proximity, excellent VA access, mid-range costs
Vancouver - No Oregon income tax, near Portland jobs, reasonable costs
Olympia - State capital jobs, JBLM access, median home $516,000
Everett - Boeing jobs, growing market, median home $618,000
Spokane Valley - Spokane suburb, slightly cheaper, good schools
Bellingham - Quality of life, college town, but remote and expensive ($688,000)
Renton - Seattle suburb, diverse, but pricey (near Seattle levels)
Bellevue - Highest salaries, but median home $1.5M (only for high earners)
Seattle - Best jobs/highest pay, but cost of living crushes most budgets

Ranking Methodology: What We Measured

We evaluated 10 Washington cities for veterans based on:

Housing affordability: Median home prices, average rent, property taxes
VA healthcare access: Proximity to VA medical centers and community clinics
Employment opportunities: Veteran unemployment rates, major employers, average salaries
Veteran population: Size of veteran community, support infrastructure
Quality of life: Safety, education, recreation, climate
Tax benefits: Property tax exemption value, overall tax burden for veterans

Sources: Redfin, RentCafe, Apartments.com, VA.gov, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Washington Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington OFM population data (2024-2025).

1. Spokane: Best Overall Value for Washington Veterans

Overall Grade: A-

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $370,000-390,000 (lowest among major WA cities)
Average rent: $1,156/month (Apartment List) to $1,389/month (RentCafe)
Property tax rate: ~1.0%
Annual property tax (median home): $3,800

VA Healthcare:

Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center: 4815 N Assembly Street, Spokane, WA 99205
Phone: (509) 434-7000
Services: Full medical center with inpatient/outpatient care, mental health, surgery, specialty care
Spokane Valley VA Clinic: 12509 E Mirabeau Parkway
Wenatchee VA Clinic: 2530 Chester Kimm Road (1 hour west)

Employment:

Major employers: Providence Health, MultiCare, Fairchild Air Force Base, Spokane Public Schools, Washington State University Spokane
Tech sector: Growing but smaller than Seattle
Healthcare: Strong sector with multiple hospital systems
Logistics: Amazon fulfillment center, warehousing
Average veteran salary: $45,000-70,000 (varies by field)

Veteran Population:

Spokane County veteran population: Estimated 28,000-32,000 veterans
Strong VFW and American Legion presence
Active veteran community and support organizations

Cost of Living:

28% lower than Washington state average
4% lower than national average
Cheapest major city in Washington

Pros

Affordability is king:

Median home price nearly $500,000 less than Seattle
Rent is $800-2,700/month cheaper than Seattle
Property taxes on median home: $3,800 vs. $10,290 in King County
Your military retirement goes much further here

Full VA medical center on-site:

No need to drive hours for specialty care
Mann-Grandstaff offers comprehensive services
Mental health programs, PTSD treatment
Short wait times compared to Seattle VA

Strong veteran community:

Large population of Air Force veterans (Fairchild AFB nearby)
Excellent VFW/American Legion chapters
Veteran-owned businesses throughout city
Annual veteran events and support

Quality of life:

Four true seasons (cold winters, warm summers)
Outdoor recreation: hiking, skiing, lakes, Spokane River
Low traffic compared to Seattle
Family-friendly neighborhoods
Good schools in many areas

No state income tax advantage:

Save $3,000-5,000/year compared to neighboring states
Military retirement pay 100% untaxed by state

Cons

Limited high-paying job market:

Tech salaries lag Seattle by $30,000-60,000
Fewer Fortune 500 companies
If you're transitioning to high-end tech career, Seattle pays more (but costs more)

Smaller overall economy:

Fewer total jobs than Seattle/Tacoma metro
Less diversity in employment sectors
Career advancement can be limited in some fields

Cold winters:

Average January high: 34°F
Snowfall: 40-50 inches per year
Not for those seeking mild year-round weather

Distance from JBLM:

280 miles from Joint Base Lewis-McChord
If you're separating from JBLM and want to stay close, Spokane is far
4.5-hour drive to Puget Sound region

Limited public transit:

Car-dependent city
Spokane Transit exists but limited compared to Seattle

Best For

Veterans prioritizing affordability over high salaries
Retirees who want their pension to stretch
Families wanting homeownership without crushing debt
Those who prefer smaller cities with four seasons
Air Force veterans (Fairchild AFB connections)
Anyone needing full VA medical center access without Seattle prices

Verdict

2. Tacoma: The JBLM Veteran Sweet Spot

Overall Grade: A

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $499,000 (up 2.5% year-over-year)
Average rent: $1,487-1,760/month
Property tax rate: ~1.1%
Annual property tax (median home): $5,489

VA Healthcare:

American Lake VA Medical Center: 9600 Veterans Drive SW, Tacoma, WA 98493
Phone: (253) 582-8440 or (800) 329-8387
Services: Full medical center, residential mental health programs, PTSD treatment, substance abuse rehab
Puyallup VA Clinic: 11216 Sunrise Blvd E
Renton VA Clinic, Seattle VA Medical Center also nearby

Employment:

Joint Base Lewis-McChord: 10 miles south (major employer, Reserve/Guard opportunities)
Major employers: MultiCare Health, CHI Franciscan, Tacoma Public Schools, State of Washington, Amazon (fulfillment), Metro Parks Tacoma
Port of Tacoma: Logistics and maritime jobs
Average veteran salary: $50,000-80,000

Veteran Population:

Pierce County veteran population: 50,000+ veterans
Among the highest veteran populations in Washington
Driven by JBLM proximity

Cost of Living:

10% less than Seattle
Higher than Spokane, but much more affordable than Seattle/Bellevue
Good balance of affordability and opportunity

Pros

Best proximity to JBLM:

Just 10 miles to the base
Easy transition for separating service members
Strong Reserve/Guard opportunities
Huge veteran community (friends/network from active duty)

Excellent VA healthcare:

American Lake VA Medical Center is one of the best in the region
Specialized residential PTSD treatment program
Substance abuse rehab programs
Short drive to Seattle VA for additional specialty services

Strong job market for veterans:

JBLM contractor jobs (logistics, training, support)
State government (Olympia 30 miles south)
Healthcare (MultiCare, CHI Franciscan hire many veterans)
Port of Tacoma (logistics, maritime, trucking)
Amazon fulfillment (entry-level $40,000-50,000)

Housing affordability (relative to Seattle):

Median home price $480,000 less than Seattle
Can actually afford a house on E-6/E-7 retirement + civilian job
Many JBLM veterans buy here after separation

Strong veteran support infrastructure:

VFW/American Legion posts
Veteran service organizations
JBLM connection means built-in community
Military-friendly businesses

Quality of life:

Waterfront access (Puget Sound)
Point Defiance Park (700+ acres)
Museums, zoo, aquarium
Revitalized downtown
Good schools in North Tacoma/University Place

Cons

Higher crime than suburbs:

Some neighborhoods have elevated property crime
Research areas before buying (North Tacoma, University Place, Fircrest are safer)
Avoid certain South Tacoma areas

Still expensive for lower-income veterans:

$499,000 median home is out of reach for some
Rent of $1,500-1,800 for 2BR requires $60,000+ income
Not as budget-friendly as Spokane

Traffic to Seattle:

35 miles to Seattle, but can take 1-2 hours in traffic
I-5 is frequently congested
If you work in Seattle, commute is brutal

Weather:

Rainy 8-9 months/year (typical Western WA)
Overcast much of the year
If you need sunshine, this isn't it

Best For

JBLM separating service members who want to stay near the base/community
Veterans prioritizing VA healthcare access
Those seeking balance between affordability and opportunity
Military families who want to stay near JBLM schools/friends
Logistics and healthcare professionals

Verdict

3. Vancouver: Tax Benefits + Portland Access

Overall Grade: B+

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $490,000 (up 2.1% year-over-year)
Average rent: $1,781/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0-1.1%
Annual property tax (median home): $5,000-5,400

VA Healthcare:

Vancouver VA Medical Center: 1601 E Fourth Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661
Phone: (360) 759-1901
Services: Full medical center (part of VA Portland Health Care)
Portland VA Medical Center: 15 miles south in Oregon

Employment:

Major employers: PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, Evergreen Public Schools, Columbia River Paper, Nautilus Inc., WaFd Bank
Portland metro access: 10 miles to downtown Portland
Tech jobs in Portland: Nike, Intel, Adidas, Columbia Sportswear
Average veteran salary: $50,000-75,000

Veteran Population:

Clark County veteran population: 22,000-26,000 veterans
Growing veteran community

Cost of Living:

Comparable to Tacoma
Key advantage: Live in WA (no state income tax), work in OR if desired

Pros

Best tax situation in the region:

No Washington state income tax (save $3,000-5,000/year vs. Oregon residents)
Access to Portland job market across river
Many veterans live in Vancouver, work in Portland, and pay $0 state income tax
This is a huge financial advantage

Full VA medical center:

Vancouver VA offers comprehensive care
Portland VA also accessible (15 minutes)
Two VA medical centers within 15 miles

Access to Portland metro job market:

Tech: Intel (Hillsboro, OR), Nike (Beaverton, OR)
Healthcare: Oregon Health & Science University, Legacy Health
Manufacturing: Precision Castparts (aerospace)
Salaries competitive with Seattle in some sectors

No sales tax in Oregon:

Drive 10 minutes to Oregon, shop with no sales tax
Washington residents can shop in Oregon sales-tax-free
Save $70-200/month on groceries, goods

Quality of life:

Milder climate than Eastern WA (but still rainy)
Columbia River waterfront
Outdoor recreation: Gorge, Mt. Hood, coast
Good schools in many areas
Less congested than Seattle

Cons

Oregon income tax if you work in Oregon:

If you work in Portland, you pay Oregon state income tax (variable rates up to 9.9%)
This negates the WA no-income-tax advantage
You're only saving if you work in WA or are retired

Limited high-paying jobs in Vancouver itself:

Most big employers are in Portland (Oregon side)
Vancouver jobs often pay less than Seattle/Bellevue
Career advancement may require working in Oregon (and paying their income tax)

Housing costs rising:

Median home approaching $500,000
Not as affordable as Spokane
Rent $1,781 requires $70,000+ income

Far from JBLM:

130 miles north to JBLM
If you're separating from JBLM, Vancouver is distant
Less military community feel than Tacoma/Olympia

Traffic to Portland:

I-5 and I-205 bridges to Oregon are heavily congested during rush hour
Commute to Portland can be 30-60 minutes
Bridge tolls proposed (not yet implemented)

Best For

Retired veterans who want no state income tax + access to a major metro area
Veterans working remote jobs (live in WA, pay $0 state income tax)
Those who want Portland access without Oregon taxes
Families seeking good schools and outdoor recreation
Anyone willing to shop in Oregon for sales tax savings

Verdict

4. Olympia: State Capital + JBLM Access

Overall Grade: B+

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $516,000-568,000 (varies by source, up 1.1-3.3% year-over-year)
Average rent: $1,600-1,900/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0-1.1%
Annual property tax (median home): $5,300-5,700

VA Healthcare:

Olympia VA Clinic: 500 Lilly Road NE, Suites 201-202, Olympia, WA 98506
Phone: (253) 583-2621
Services: Primary care, mental health, telehealth
American Lake VA Medical Center (Tacoma): 30 miles north for full services

Employment:

State of Washington government: Largest employer (veteran hiring preference)
Major employers: Providence St. Peter Hospital, Thurston County, Olympia School District, The Evergreen State College
JBLM: 35 miles north (commutable)
Average veteran salary: $50,000-80,000 (higher for state jobs)

Veteran Population:

Thurston County veteran population: 30,811 veterans
Driven by JBLM separations (60%+ stay in Thurston County)

Cost of Living:

Median home value ($532,236) nearly half of Seattle's ($871,963)
Affordable compared to Seattle, but pricier than Spokane

Pros

State government jobs with veteran preference:

Washington state gives veteran hiring preference for state positions
Olympia is the state capital—thousands of state jobs
Salaries: $45,000-90,000+ depending on role
Excellent benefits, pension, job security

JBLM proximity:

35 miles (30-45 minute drive)
Many JBLM veterans settle here
Strong military community

Access to VA healthcare:

Olympia VA Clinic for primary care
American Lake VA Medical Center 30 minutes away
Seattle VA 60 minutes north

Quality of life:

State capital amenities
Puget Sound waterfront
The Evergreen State College (quirky, progressive vibe)
Farmer's markets, local culture
Low crime in most areas

Moderate housing costs:

Median home $516,000-568,000 is high, but half of Seattle's
Achievable for dual-income veteran households
Better than Seattle/Bellevue, worse than Spokane

Cons

Housing still expensive:

$516,000-568,000 median is out of reach for many single-income veterans
Rent $1,600-1,900 requires $65,000-75,000 income

Smaller job market:

Heavy reliance on state government
Limited private sector jobs
If you're laid off, options are limited
Tech jobs nearly non-existent

Weather:

Rainy, overcast 8-9 months/year
Less sun than Eastern WA

No full VA medical center:

Must drive to Tacoma for specialty care, surgery, inpatient services
Olympia VA Clinic is primary care only

Traffic to Seattle/Tacoma:

Growing congestion on I-5
Commute to Seattle: 60-90 minutes
Commute to JBLM: 30-45 minutes (tolerable)

Best For

Veterans seeking state government employment
JBLM separating service members who want a smaller city vibe
Families valuing education and quality of life
Those who want JBLM proximity without Tacoma's urban feel

Verdict

5. Everett: Boeing Jobs + Growing Market

Overall Grade: B

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $618,000-648,000 (up 2.9-7.1% year-over-year)
Average rent: $1,800-2,100/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0-1.1%
Annual property tax (median home): $6,400-6,700

VA Healthcare:

Everett VA Clinic: 220 Olympic Blvd, Everett, WA 98203
Phone: (425) 683-0545
Services: Primary care, mental health
Seattle VA Medical Center: 30 miles south for full services

Employment:

Boeing: Largest employer (Everett plant builds 747, 767, 777, 787)
Major employers: Providence Regional Medical Center, Naval Station Everett, Everett Public Schools, Snohomish County
Tech: Growing sector, Microsoft/Amazon workers commute from here
Average veteran salary: $55,000-90,000 (higher for Boeing engineers/mechanics)

Veteran Population:

Snohomish County veteran population: 35,000-40,000 veterans
Naval Station Everett drives military community

Cost of Living:

Higher than Spokane, Tacoma, Olympia
Lower than Seattle/Bellevue
Competitive housing market (homes sell fast)

Pros

Boeing jobs for veterans:

15% of Boeing workforce are veterans (13,500+ hired since 2010)
Excellent opportunities for aircraft mechanics, quality inspectors, engineers
Salaries: $50,000-95,000 for mechanics, $85,000-140,000 for engineers
Military aircraft maintenance experience directly transferable

Naval Station Everett:

Active duty Navy base
Reserve opportunities
Military community presence

Access to Seattle job market:

30 miles to Seattle (45-90 minute commute)
Can work in Seattle, live in Everett for lower housing costs
Growing local tech sector

Quality of life:

Waterfront access (Puget Sound)
Parks and recreation
Improving downtown
Good schools in North Everett

VA clinic on-site:

Primary care and mental health locally
Seattle VA 30 minutes for specialty care

Cons

Expensive housing:

Median home $618,000-648,000 is tough for most veterans
Rent $1,800-2,100 requires $70,000-85,000 income
Homes often sell in under a week with multiple offers (very competitive)

Boeing layoffs:

Boeing has had multiple rounds of layoffs (15,000 in 2025 across company)
Job security concerns
If Boeing is your only option, risky

Traffic:

I-5 congestion to Seattle is brutal
Commute can be 90+ minutes in rush hour
Limited public transit

No full VA medical center:

Must drive to Seattle VA for specialty care
Everett clinic is primary care only

Weather:

Rainy, overcast most of the year

Best For

Veterans with aircraft maintenance experience targeting Boeing
Navy veterans (Naval Station Everett connection)
Those willing to commute to Seattle for higher pay
Families wanting Seattle access without Seattle prices (though Everett is still pricey)

Verdict

6. Spokane Valley: Spokane Suburb Alternative

Overall Grade: B

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $360,000-380,000 (slightly cheaper than Spokane)
Average rent: $1,100-1,300/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0%
Annual property tax: $3,700

VA Healthcare:

Spokane Valley VA Clinic: 12509 E Mirabeau Parkway, Suite 100, Spokane Valley, WA 99216
Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center (Spokane): 10 miles west

Employment:

Suburban/bedroom community
Many residents commute to Spokane
Major employers: Walmart, retail, services
Average salary: $40,000-65,000

Veteran Population:

Part of Spokane County's 28,000-32,000 veterans

Cost of Living:

Slightly cheaper than Spokane
Very affordable overall

Pros

Cheapest housing in the rankings ($360,000-380,000)
Access to Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center (10 minutes)
Quieter, more suburban feel than Spokane
Good schools (Central Valley School District)
Family-friendly

Cons

Limited jobs (most commute to Spokane)
Fewer amenities than Spokane
More car-dependent
Less walkable/urban

Best For

Veterans prioritizing maximum affordability
Families wanting good schools + quiet suburbs
Retirees on fixed income

Verdict

7. Bellingham: Quality of Life + College Town Vibe

Overall Grade: B-

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $688,000 (up 1.2-3.1% year-over-year)
Average rent: $1,700-2,000/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0%
Annual property tax (median home): $6,880

VA Healthcare:

Mount Vernon VA Clinic: 307 S 13th Street, Suite 200, Mount Vernon, WA 98274 (30 miles south)
Phone: (360) 848-8500
Seattle VA Medical Center: 90 miles south for full services

Employment:

Major employers: PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, Western Washington University, Bellingham Public Schools, Alcoa Intalco Works
Tourism and outdoor industry
Limited tech sector
Average veteran salary: $45,000-70,000

Veteran Population:

Whatcom County veteran population: 10,000-12,000 veterans (smaller community)

Cost of Living:

High housing costs
Remote location limits some expenses
College town keeps some prices competitive

Pros

Outstanding quality of life:

Beautiful setting (mountains, water, islands)
Outdoor recreation: hiking, skiing, kayaking, sailing
College town culture (Western Washington University)
Arts, music, local food scene
Friendly, progressive community

Proximity to Canada:

30 minutes to Vancouver, BC
International travel/culture access

Clean, safe city:

Low crime
Good schools
Family-friendly

VA clinic access:

Mount Vernon VA Clinic 30 miles south

Cons

Expensive and remote:

Median home $688,000 is very high for limited job market
90 miles to Seattle
If you need specialty VA care, it's a 90-mile drive to Seattle VA
Limited career opportunities

Small veteran community:

Fewer veterans than Spokane, Tacoma, Olympia
Less veteran infrastructure

Limited jobs:

Heavily reliant on healthcare, education, tourism
Tech jobs nearly nonexistent
Lower salaries than Seattle

No full VA medical center:

Must drive 90 miles to Seattle for specialty care, surgery

Best For

Retirees prioritizing quality of life over career
Outdoor enthusiasts
Those who want small-city charm
Veterans comfortable with remote VA access

Verdict

8. Renton: Seattle Suburb with Diversity

Overall Grade: C+

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $675,000-750,000
Average rent: $1,900-2,400/month
Property tax rate: ~1.05%
Annual property tax: $7,000-7,900

VA Healthcare:

Renton VA Clinic: 419 S 2nd Street, Suite 2, Renton, WA 98057
Seattle VA Medical Center: 10 miles north

Employment:

Boeing Renton plant: 737 production
Major employers: Valley Medical Center, IKEA, The Landing retail
Many residents commute to Seattle/Bellevue
Average veteran salary: $60,000-100,000

Veteran Population:

Part of King County's large veteran population

Cost of Living:

Nearly as expensive as Seattle
Better value than Bellevue

Pros

Boeing jobs (737 plant)
Diverse community
Close to Seattle VA
Public transit (Link light rail coming)

Cons

Very expensive ($675,000-750,000 median home)
High rent ($1,900-2,400)
Traffic to Seattle
Not much cheaper than Seattle itself

Best For

Boeing 737 workers
Those who want Seattle access with slightly lower costs

Verdict

9. Bellevue: Highest Salaries, Highest Costs

Overall Grade: C

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $1.5 million (down 7.8% from peak, still astronomical)
Average rent: $2,500-3,500/month
Property tax rate: ~1.0%
Annual property tax (median home): $15,000

VA Healthcare:

Seattle VA Medical Center: 10 miles west
No Bellevue VA clinic

Employment:

Major employers: Microsoft, Amazon, T-Mobile, Salesforce, Meta, Valve
Tech salaries: $120,000-250,000+ for mid-to-senior engineers
Average veteran salary (tech): $100,000-180,000

Veteran Population:

Part of King County veteran population

Cost of Living:

Highest in Washington state
Only viable for high earners

Pros

Highest salaries in Washington:

Tech jobs paying $120,000-250,000+
If you're a skilled software engineer/cloud architect, this is where the money is

Excellent schools:

Bellevue School District is top-rated

Low crime, safe:

One of safest cities in WA

Access to Seattle VA:

10 miles to Seattle VA Medical Center

Cons

Unaffordable for most veterans:

$1.5M median home is out of reach unless you're earning $200,000+ household
Rent $2,500-3,500 requires $100,000-140,000 income
Property taxes $15,000/year even with exemption

Cost of living eats salary gains:

Yes, you make $150,000, but housing costs $4,000/month
Net savings often less than earning $70,000 in Spokane with $1,500/month housing

No VA clinic:

Must drive to Seattle

Best For

High-earning tech veterans (software engineers making $120,000+)
Veterans with substantial savings/retirement income
Those prioritizing schools over affordability

Verdict

10. Seattle: Best Jobs, Worst Affordability

Overall Grade: C

The Numbers (2025)

Housing:

Median home price: $856,000-980,000 (varies by neighborhood)
Average rent: $1,945/month (1BR) to $3,850/month (3BR)
Property tax rate: ~1.05%
Annual property tax (median home): $9,000-10,290

VA Healthcare:

Seattle VA Medical Center: 1660 S Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108
Phone: (206) 762-1010 or (800) 329-8387
Services: Full medical center with all specialties

Employment:

Major employers: Amazon, Microsoft (Redmond), Boeing, Starbucks, UW Medicine, Nordstrom, Alaska Airlines, Zillow, Expedia
Tech salaries: $90,000-200,000+ (mid-to-senior)
Healthcare: $60,000-120,000
Average veteran salary (tech): $95,000-150,000

Veteran Population:

King County veteran population: 50,000-60,000+ (one of largest in state)

Cost of Living:

Most expensive city in Washington
Cost of living index 50% above national average

Pros

Best job market in Washington:

More tech jobs than anywhere else in the state
Amazon HQ, Microsoft nearby, hundreds of startups
Salaries: $90,000-200,000+ for tech
Healthcare jobs: UW Medicine, Swedish, Virginia Mason

Full VA medical center:

Seattle VA offers every specialty
Excellent care quality
Research and teaching hospital

Public transit:

Link light rail, buses
More walkable than most WA cities

Culture and amenities:

World-class restaurants, arts, music, museums
Pro sports (Seahawks, Mariners, Sounders, Kraken)
Tons of things to do

Largest veteran community:

50,000-60,000 veterans in King County
Extensive veteran services

Cons

Brutally expensive housing:

Median home $856,000-980,000 is unaffordable for most veterans
To buy median home, you need $170,000-200,000 household income
Rent $1,945-3,850/month requires $80,000-150,000 income

Property taxes crush budgets:

$9,000-10,290/year on median home
Even with veteran exemption, you're paying thousands

High cost of living:

Groceries, dining, entertainment all expensive
Your $100,000 salary feels like $60,000 after housing

Traffic and congestion:

Among worst traffic in U.S.
Commutes 60-90 minutes common
Parking expensive

Weather:

Rainy, overcast 9 months/year
Seasonal Affective Disorder common

Homelessness and crime:

Visible homelessness in many areas
Property crime rates high
Some neighborhoods unsafe

Best For

High-earning tech veterans ($100,000+ salaries)
Veterans prioritizing career advancement over affordability
Those who want maximum culture/amenities
Single veterans who can afford a studio/1BR

Worst For

Veterans on fixed income (retirement/disability only)
Families needing 3+ bedrooms
Those prioritizing affordability and homeownership

Verdict

Comparative Table: All 10 Cities at a Glance

City	Median Home Price	Avg Rent (2BR)	Property Tax (Median)	VA Access	Best Job Sector	Veteran Pop	Overall Grade
Spokane	$370K-390K	$1,156-1,389	$3,800	Full VA Medical Center	Healthcare, Government	28K-32K	A-
Tacoma	$499K	$1,487-1,760	$5,489	Full VA Medical Center (American Lake)	Healthcare, Logistics, JBLM	50K+	A
Vancouver	$490K	$1,781	$5,000-5,400	Full VA Medical Center	Portland Metro Access	22K-26K	B+
Olympia	$516K-568K	$1,600-1,900	$5,300-5,700	VA Clinic (Tacoma VA 30 min)	State Government	30,811	B+
Everett	$618K-648K	$1,800-2,100	$6,400-6,700	VA Clinic (Seattle VA 30 min)	Boeing, Healthcare	35K-40K	B
Spokane Valley	$360K-380K	$1,100-1,300	$3,700	VA Clinic (Spokane VA 10 min)	Suburban/Retail	Part of Spokane Co.	B
Bellingham	$688K	$1,700-2,000	$6,880	VA Clinic (Mount Vernon 30 min)	Healthcare, Education	10K-12K	B-
Renton	$675K-750K	$1,900-2,400	$7,000-7,900	VA Clinic (Seattle VA 10 min)	Boeing 737	Part of King Co.	C+
Bellevue	$1.5M	$2,500-3,500	$15,000	Seattle VA 10 min	Tech (Microsoft, Amazon)	Part of King Co.	C
Seattle	$856K-980K	$1,945-3,850	$9,000-10,290	Full VA Medical Center	Tech, Healthcare	50K-60K+	C

Special Considerations for Veterans

Property Tax Exemptions Change the Math

If you're 80%+ disabled, Washington's property tax exemption can save you $3,000-10,000/year depending on county and home value. This changes the affordability equation:

Example: 100% disabled veteran in King County (Seattle)

Median home: $980,000
Standard property tax: $10,290/year
With exemption (income under $84,000): $875/year
Savings: $9,415/year

This makes Seattle/Bellevue more viable IF:

You're 100% P&T disabled
Your household income (excluding VA disability) is under $84,000
You can afford the down payment and mortgage

However: You still need to qualify for a mortgage on $980,000, which requires significant income or savings. The exemption helps, but doesn't solve the affordability problem entirely.

JBLM Transition Considerations

If you're separating from JBLM, 60%+ of service members stay in Thurston County (Olympia area). Here's why:

Community: Your friends/network from JBLM are here
Schools: Kids don't have to change schools
Reserve/Guard: Easy to continue service
VA healthcare: American Lake VA is 30 minutes north
Employment: State government, JBLM contractor jobs

Best JBLM transition cities:

Tacoma (10 miles north)
Lakewood (adjacent to JBLM)
Olympia (35 miles south)
Puyallup (20 miles north)

Remote Work Changes Everything

If you're a remote worker, Washington's no state income tax is a massive advantage:

Work for California company: Earn CA salary, pay $0 state income tax
Work for any remote employer: Keep 100% of income (no state tax)

Best remote work cities:

Spokane (lowest cost, full VA)
Vancouver (no state income tax + Portland culture)
Bellingham (quality of life)
Olympia (balance)

Veteran Population Matters

Why veteran population size matters:

Larger communities = better VFW/American Legion chapters
More veteran-owned businesses
Stronger support networks
Politicians pay attention (voting bloc)

Largest veteran populations:

King County (Seattle area): 50,000-60,000+
Pierce County (Tacoma area): 50,000+
Snohomish County (Everett area): 35,000-40,000
Thurston County (Olympia area): 30,811
Spokane County: 28,000-32,000

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: I'm a software engineer earning $120,000. Where should I live? A: Seattle or Bellevue (highest salaries, most opportunities). You can afford the housing costs at that income level.

Q: I want to avoid Seattle traffic. Where should I live? A: Spokane (no Seattle traffic), Bellingham (90 miles from Seattle), or Walla Walla (not ranked, but very remote).

Q: Which city has the lowest property taxes? A: Spokane/Spokane Valley (lowest home values = lowest taxes, ~$3,700-3,800/year on median home).

Q: I'm separating from the Navy. Best city? A: Everett (Naval Station Everett) or Bremerton (Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, not ranked but worth considering).

Q: I hate rain. Where should I live? A: Spokane or Spokane Valley (Eastern WA = much less rain, more sun). Everywhere west of the Cascades is rainy 8-9 months/year.

The Verdict: Which City is Right for You?

Choose SPOKANE if you want:

Maximum affordability ($370K-390K median home, $1,156 rent)
Full VA medical center
Four seasons and more sunshine
Strong veteran community
Your dollars to go the furthest

Choose TACOMA if you want:

JBLM proximity and military community
Excellent VA healthcare (American Lake)
Balance of affordability and opportunity
Puget Sound access
Easy transition from active duty

Choose VANCOUVER if you want:

Zero state income tax + Portland metro access
Tax optimization (live in WA, shop in OR)
Full VA medical center
Moderate housing costs
Access to major city without living in it

Choose OLYMPIA if you want:

State government employment (veteran hiring preference)
JBLM access (35 miles)
State capital amenities
Moderate costs
Strong veteran community

Choose SEATTLE if you want:

Highest salaries ($90K-200K+ in tech)
Best job market in WA
Maximum culture/amenities
Full VA medical center
AND you're earning $100,000+

AVOID Seattle/Bellevue if:

You're earning under $80,000
You prioritize affordability
You want to own a home on military retirement alone
You're on a fixed income

Final Recommendation: The Top 3 for Most Veterans

1. Spokane - Best overall value. If you're earning $40,000-80,000 and want affordability + full VA + quality of life, Spokane wins.

2. Tacoma - Best for JBLM-area veterans. Proximity to base, excellent VA, strong community, mid-range costs.

3. Vancouver - Best for tax optimization. Live in WA (no income tax), access Portland, shop in OR (no sales tax).

Honorable mention: Olympia (state jobs), Everett (Boeing).

Avoid unless high earner: Seattle, Bellevue.

You served your country. Now make your dollars serve you. Choose wisely.