Home Affordability in Seattle, WA
The median home price in Seattle is $850,000 with a median household income of $105,391. Housing is significantly stretched relative to local incomes.
Median Home Price
$850,000
Median Income
$105,391
Price-to-Income Ratio
8.1x
Est. Affordable Home
$410,000
Property Tax Rate
0.93%
Annual Property Tax
$7,905
Sales Tax Rate
10.25%
Cost of Living Index
156
Buying a Home in Seattle
Based on the 28% rule (spending no more than 28% of gross income on housing), a household earning the median income of $105,391 in Seattle can afford a monthly housing payment of approximately $2,459. This translates to a home price of roughly $410,000, which is below the median home price of $850,000 — many households may need a higher income, larger down payment, or should consider more affordable neighborhoods.
Property taxes on a median-priced home in Seattle would be approximately $7,905 per year ($659/month) at the effective rate of 0.93%.
Down Payment Scenarios
| Down Payment | Amount | Loan Amount | PMI Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3% | $25,500 | $824,500 | Yes |
| 5% | $42,500 | $807,500 | Yes |
| 10% | $85,000 | $765,000 | Yes |
| 20% | $170,000 | $680,000 | No |
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