One Of The Cheapest Places To Live Near The Pacific Coast Is A Port Town In Washington With Low Rent

If you've ever dreamed of living or retiring in the Pacific Northwest without draining your bank account, there's a quiet town in Washington where that dream might still be a reality. Located near Olympic National Park and framed by snow-capped mountains, Port Angeles offers a mix of affordability, stunning beauty, and everyday convenience. According to World Atlas, it is one of the most affordable towns along the Pacific coast.

While Washington is one of the most expensive states to live in, Port Angeles stands out as a budget-friendly exception. With lower-than-average housing costs, no state income tax, and access to free or low-cost outdoor recreation, it's a rare spot where your paycheck or retirement income can stretch further without compromising on quality of life. But like all cities, Port Angeles isn't without its tradeoffs. In particular, it's important to know about the city's remote location and limited job market, which can be challenging for newcomers to adjust to.

Compared to other cities in Washington and along the Pacific coast, the cost of living in Port Angeles is surprisingly manageable. Whether you're looking to save on housing costs, transportation, utilities, or all three, living frugally may still be possible here. According to the Economic Research Institute, the cost of living in Port Angeles is 2% cheaper than the national average and a whopping 13% lower than the Washington average.

Housing is where you'll likely see the biggest savings. Median rent and home prices in Port Angeles are significantly lower than in cities like Seattle or Astoria, which is also along the Pacific coast. According to Redfin, median rent here was $1,208; meanwhile, the median rent in Seattle was $2,088 and $2,113 in Astoria. Home prices are also cheaper here. Redfin also noted that the median home price in Port Angeles in May 2025 was $359,750. Meanwhile, the median home price in Seattle was $895,000 and $532,000 in Astoria.

When it comes to stretching your budget while enjoying coastal living, Port Angeles also delivers savings on utilities and transportation. Thanks to Clallam Transit's zero-fare policy, many local bus routes won't cost a cent throughout 2025. As for utilities, Clallam residents pay a monthly average of $132 for electricity, compared to the state average of $173, according to EnergySage.

While the city's affordability and landscape are major draws, newcomers may find that Port Angeles isn't for everyone. It's a remote location that is closer to the Canadian border than to Seattle, which is over two hours away by car or ferry ride. It can feel isolated, especially for those accustomed to the fast pace and amenities of larger cities. The job market here is also very limited, making it a better location for retirees looking for a peaceful town. Unless working in government, healthcare, or retail, working professionals may struggle to find employment opportunities.

Despite its challenges, many people find the tradeoffs well worth it. The town provides a walkable community with great weather year-round and access to countless outdoor activities and hiking opportunities. And since it's located in the Olympic Rain Shadow, Port Angeles receives less rain than other places in the Pacific Northwest. For those seeking budget-friendly coastal living with easy access to outdoor adventure, Port Angeles might just be the ideal place to call home.