Is it cheaper to live in WA or CA?
Washington is generally the cheaper option. Yet California can cost less — in the right city for the right household. The local data should be verified to confirm which state fits the distinct financial targets.
Does Washington have a state income tax, and what replaces it?
No. The Washington state income tax rate on wages is 0%. The paycheck is not lowered by a state tax the way it is in California. In Washington, the state structures revenue through other channels.
- WA State Sales Tax Rate — 6.5% is the state base. Local add-ons vary the final amounts in parallel to the specific zip code.
- WA Capital Gains Tax — it impacts long-term investment profits — Washington uses a 7% rate up to $1 million & 9.9% for taxable amounts above this threshold
- WA Estate Tax: For 2026, the exclusion amount is $3,076,000 — Taxable amounts exceeding the limit handle graduated rates reaching 35%
- WA Working Families Tax Credit — eligible workers may satisfy qualification criteria for a cash refund — For 2025, the maximum amount is $1,330 based on family size
What can make California the cheaper option?
California can come out ahead in the case of securing lower housing costs & keeping commuting expenses minor. Prop 13 limits property tax increases to 2% per year — unless the home is sold. If you have owned your California home for a long period, the property tax amounts may be lower than what you would face at current Washington market rates.
How can you compare WA and CA?
A designed comparison built on your own inputs may be leveraged:
- Select the exact city or ZIP code you would live in for each state
- List the income sources as well as estimated totals for the next 12 months
- Note any costs that might vary after the move — childcare, insurance, debt payments
Can Helium Day Tax & CPAs estimate the distinction before moving?