Average Rent in Washington: $1,938/mo (2026)
Find fair market rent prices for 2 major metro areas in Washington. The average 2-bedroom rent across the state is $1,938/mo.
Major Cities in Washington
Sorted by 2-bedroom rent price (highest to lowest)
Explore Washington Rent Data
Browse detailed rent prices for cities across Washington. Each city page includes neighborhood breakdowns, rent trends, and local market insights.
Washington Rental Market Overview
The fair market rent (FMR) data for Washington is published annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These figures represent the 40th percentile of gross rents for standard quality rental housing in each metro area.
Washington has 2 major metropolitan areas tracked in our database. The most expensive city for renters is Seattle, WA with an average 2-bedroom rent of $2,501/mo, while the most affordable is Spokane, WA at $1,375/mo.
What Affects Rent Prices in Washington?
- Location: Proximity to employment centers and urban amenities significantly impacts rent prices across Washington metros.
- Local Economy: Job growth and industry presence drive rental demand. Strong employment markets typically have higher rents.
- Housing Supply: Areas with new construction tend to have more rental options and potentially competitive pricing.
- Schools: Quality school districts command premium rents, especially for family-sized apartments.
- Transportation: Access to highways and public transit affects neighborhood desirability and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington Rent
What is the average rent in Washington?
The average rent in Washington is $1,938 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment based on 2026 HUD Fair Market Rent data. Prices range from $1,375 in Spokane to $2,501 in Seattle.
What is the cheapest city to rent in Washington?
Spokane, WA offers the most affordable rent among major Washington metros at $1,375/month for a 2-bedroom apartment. Studios in Spokane average $825/month.
What is the most expensive city to rent in Washington?
Seattle, WA has the highest rents in Washington at $2,501/month for a 2-bedroom apartment. This is $563 above the state average.
How much do I need to earn to rent in Washington?
To comfortably afford the average Washington 2-bedroom at $1,938/month, you would need an annual income of approximately $77,520 (based on the 30% of income guideline). For the most affordable areas, you would need about $55,000/year.
Is Washington affordable for renters?
Washington has above-average rental costs, with 2-bedroom apartments averaging $1,938/month. However, more affordable options exist in smaller metros and suburban areas.