Seattle, known for its vibrant urban atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings, has been a significant hub for the tech industry with giants like Amazon and Microsoft.
However, rising living costs have made the city increasingly difficult to afford, prompting many to seek alternatives.
Spokane, a mid-sized city located on the eastern edge of Washington, is now garnering attention as the next hot spot, offering a similar lifestyle to Seattle, but at a fraction of the cost.
As Spokane evolves with a growing population and influx of new tech companies, it presents an appealing option for those in search of both opportunity and quality of life.
With its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities, Spokane captures the essence of Seattle before its tech boom, making it attractive for individuals who cherish the Pacific Northwest vibe without the congestion and high costs.
The primary difference in cost of living between Spokane and Seattle is most evident in housing.
According to the Zillow Home Values Index, the average home price in Spokane is a little above $400,000, whereas in Seattle, it exceeds $800,000.
Similarly, rental costs reflect this disparity; Spokane’s average rent is around $1,545, while Seattle’s average stands at approximately $2,281, substantially higher than the national average of $2,069.
Seattle’s population of over 730,000 and its sprawling 84 square miles contribute to significant traffic congestion, ranking it among the top ten U.S. cities with the worst traffic from 2024 to 2025, as noted by Consumer Affairs.
Conversely, Spokane’s smaller population, roughly 228,000, makes daily commuting much more manageable.
A Reddit user highlighted Spokane’s traffic situation, stating, “One of the most underrated aspects of Spokane to me is the total lack of traffic.
It’s amazing, and roads/highways are laid out so well.”
Despite a smaller population, Spokane is rich in outdoor activities.
Travelers and residents can easily take advantage of local parks and natural amenities right within the city limits, thanks to the Spokane River that runs through the area and an abundance of green spaces.
Many residents have praised Spokane’s outstanding outdoor opportunities, from hiking and walking trails to summer activities like floating down the river.
Local attractions include the stunning Riverfront Park, which encompasses over 100 acres and offers captivating views of Spokane Falls.
Within the park, adventurers can explore the Spokane River Centennial Trail, a scenic 60-mile path with 18 marked trailheads in both Idaho and Washington.
When summer beckons, residents can find themselves at nearby lakes and rivers, enjoying swimming, rafting, and kayaking.
The winter months also offer adventure-seekers access to several ski resorts within a short drive from Spokane, such as:
1. Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park
2. Silver Mountain Resort
3. 49 Degrees North Ski Resort
4. Lookout Pass Ski And Recreation Area
5. Schweitzer Mountain
Spokane’s outdoor scene provides a similar appeal to Seattle’s, yet without the overwhelming crowds or extended travel times.
The pace of life feels slower and more relaxed, reminiscent of Seattle before its tech-infused evolution in the 1980s.
In addition to its outdoor advantages, Spokane is also making strides in developing its tech sector.
While Spokane might not yet rival Seattle’s vast tech landscape, it is witnessing a gradual expansion of its tech community.
The city proudly hosts both established firms and emerging startups, such as Itron, specializing in utility technology, and RiskLens, a leader in cyber-risk analytics.
One of the most ambitious ventures contributing to Spokane’s tech growth is the American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center (AAMMC), a substantial 386,000-square-foot facility recognized in 2023 as one of the U.S. Tech Hubs.
The center’s purpose is to create the first U.S. testbed facility for developing advanced thermoplastic materials as alternatives to metals used in aircraft components.
In January 2025, Spokane’s AAMMC Tech Hub received an impressive $48 million in federal grants through the Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (Tech Hubs) program, as announced by the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
However, this funding faced complications, as the U.S. Department of Commerce later rescinded it, indicating the funds had never been available when the awards were initially announced.
In light of this setback, local lawmakers, including Mayor Lisa Brown and Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray, expressed their disappointment, labeling the withdrawal a mistake for Spokane’s regional economy.
These officials are now committed to advocating for the reinstatement of the grant, though the path forward remains uncertain.
Despite the obstacles, Spokane is gradually gaining traction in the tech sector, capturing the interest of businesses and visitors alike from across the nation.
The city mirrors much of what makes Seattle an attractive destination, but does so with a more relaxed atmosphere, fewer crowds, and a significantly lower cost of living.
As Spokane continues to evolve, it is positioned to become a blossoming alternative for those seeking a blend of urban life and outdoor experiences without the financial strain found in its larger neighbor to the west.
image source from：thetravel
