10 Washington Cities Where Couples Can Live on Nothing but Social Security

Preparing for retirement in Washington State means you have a lot to look forward to, especially since the area is rich in natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions. There is also no state income tax on Social Security in the state. 

In 2025, the average figure was $1,979 per individual and $3,089 per couple, offering homeowners two notable financial benefits, including low property taxes.

While the state may also be known for its high overall cost of living, there are several cities where couples can retire on their Social Security payments alone. Take a look at 10 cities in Washington where you and your partner can easily live off of your Social Security payments alone.

All apartment rental data used below came from Apartments.com and all home pricing data came from Zillow.

Median home price: $281,485

Average rent: $753

In Western Washington on the Chehalis River is Aberdeen, often called the Birthplace of Grunge due to its famous former residents. Historic homes and natural beauty are abundant here, where 17,000 souls reside and the Olympic Peninsula is your backyard.

Reasonably good healthcare is found in this rainy town, where the cost of living is only slightly above the national average.

Median home price: $344,882

Average rent: $1,150

West of Lewiston, Idaho and north of Hells Gate State Park (and all its beauty) is Clarkston. The area is named for Lewis and Clark, and the Nez Perce tribe has a strong presence.Located on the banks of the Snake River, over 7,000 people live here, including a robust 65 and over community.

Each of the downtown areas in this region have local shops, eateries, and wineries to enjoy which means both necessities and entertainment are both within easy reach for retirees living in this town.

Median home price: $323,733

Average rent: $601

Housing and utilities are notably affordable in Connell, a city of just over 5,000 with serious small town energy. It's ideal for those seeking a community where everyone knows everyone.

While the city is safe and outdoor beauty is abundant, you may need to travel to the Tri-City area for your essentials like healthcare. Fortunately, Spokane International Airport is only 100 miles away, so if you need (or want) to go further, you'll have easy access to broader travel options.

Median home price: $249,890

Average rent: $743

West of Aberdeen lies this quaint city of over 8,000 folks, where over 20% of the population is 65 or older — and that means community awaits. That plus its coastal beauty and general affordability make it a top spot to retire, especially for rain lovers.

Major services and amenities require a 1.5 hour drive to Olympia, but the beaches, forest, and chowder are worth it for many.

Median home price: $387,633

Average rent: $1,349

In Southwest Washington on the Columbia and Cowlitz Rivers is Kelso, which is only an hour north of Portland by car. With a distinct Scottish influence and quirky small town vibe, you'll find an established community with history in Kelso. Mt. St. Helens is right around the corner.

Over 12,000 people live in reasonably affordable Kelso, with nearly 15% of them over the age of 65.

Median home price: $390,477

Average rent: $887

Just east of Kelso, but over three times the size with nearly 40,000 residents — almost a fourth of which are over the age of 65 — is this affordable forest and mountain haven with an equally old school feel. Like its neighbor, there is plenty of outdoor recreation to keep you active.

Longview is only 66 miles from the Pacific Ocean for when you're craving time by the sea.

Median home price: $370,692

Average rent: $1,284

Moses Lake is the obvious big draw to this area, with its ample outdoor recreational activities, but the reasonable cost of living (especially utilities and housing) and city of 27,000 also beckon. The area is growing and with it the infrastructure and amenities in this desert-like region.

Samaritan Healthcare is the major player in Moses Lake for primary care, emergency services, and beyond.

Median home price: $401,946

Average rent: $1,139

The largest city on this list with a population of approximately 230,000 (with more than 16% of which are over 65), the Lilac City sits on the Washington-Idaho border. Healthcare and cultural activities are super accessible, while the walkability score tops the list at 76.

The cost of living is slightly above the national average, but the big city amenities are a worthy tradeoff.

Median home price: $319,845

Average rent: $718

With its roots in agriculture and wineries aplenty, this sunny city with a population of 16,000 is a proud and diverse place to live. Renting is especially affordable here, as are utility payments.

Essentials like healthcare aren't difficult to come by, and you'll find community as 10% of the population is age 65 or older. There are plenty of parks for strolling, too.

Median home price: $356,395

Average rent: $950

One of the larger cities on this list, with a population of almost 100,000 (more than 16% of which are over the age of 65), Yakima is aptly called the heart of Central Washington. Retirees will enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and boating, wineries, breweries, and cultural events.

Good healthcare, golf courses, and abundant sunshine also await older adults in Yakima. Not only that, but Seattle is 2.5 hours away by car when you crave big city life.

If you're calculating how your retirement savings stack up in the state of Washington, these cities are a good place to launch your research. Despite the area's reputation for being expensive, these locales buck that trend, thanks mostly to housing and rental prices.

You may wish to check out more rural areas as well, or even head over the border into Canada for lower cost options. The more you explore, the better chance you have of finding the perfect balance of affordable and amenities.