Is Indianapolis or Seattle more affordable?
Indianapolis has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Indianapolis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Indianapolis, IN vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Indianapolis and Seattle.
3
Indianapolis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
IN
Indianapolis
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
887,642
Population
726,054
$51,225
Median Income
+105.7%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+80.1%$1,801
$225,000✓
Median Home Price
+241.1%$767,500
23%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
3.15%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°F
186 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
42"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis is a city in Indiana with a population of 887,642.
Read full Indianapolis guide →Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Indianapolis vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Indianapolis or Seattle?
Indiana has a 3.15% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Indianapolis and Seattle?
Indianapolis gets 186 sunny days/year. Avg high in Indianapolis: 62°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Indianapolis or Seattle?
Indianapolis. Seattle. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.