Sammamish, Washington is a beautiful city located on the east side of Lake Sammamish. With its stunning natural scenery, abundance of outdoor recreational activities, and highly-rated schools, it’s no wonder that Sammamish has become a popular place to live. However, with its desirable location and high standard of living, it’s important to consider the cost of living in Sammamish before making the move.

According to recent data, the cost of living in Sammamish is significantly higher than the national average. Housing costs, in particular, are nearly four times higher than the US average. However, the higher cost of living is balanced by a higher median salary, which is enough to cover living expenses for over two months. It’s important to note that the cost of living in Sammamish has increased over the past year, with transportation, food, and housing costs seeing the largest increases.

Overall, the cost of living in Sammamish is something to consider when deciding whether or not to move to the area. While the higher costs are offset by higher salaries, it’s still important to budget accordingly and be aware of the expenses associated with living in this beautiful city.

Overview of Sammamish, Washington

Sammamish is a city located in King County, Washington. It is situated on a plateau that hugs Lake Sammamish and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal city for nature lovers. The city has a population of around 68,000 people and is known for its high standard of living.

Sammamish is a family-friendly city with excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities. The city has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live. The city’s location offers easy access to Seattle and Bellevue, two of Washington’s largest cities, making it an ideal place to live for those who want to enjoy the benefits of city life without the hustle and bustle of the big city.

The cost of living in Sammamish is higher than the national average. The cost of housing is the primary contributor to the high cost of living in the city. The median home value in Sammamish is around $1.4 million, which is nearly four times higher than the national average. However, the city’s high cost of living is offset by its high median household income, which is around $180,000 per year.

Overall, Sammamish is a beautiful city with a high standard of living. While the cost of living is higher than the national average, the city’s many benefits make it an ideal place to live for those who can afford it.

Housing Costs in Sammamish

Sammamish, Washington is known for its high cost of living, and housing is no exception. According to Sperling’s BestPlaces, the median house value in Sammamish is around $1.3954 million, which is nearly four times higher than the national average of $338,100. This puts Sammamish in the top 3% of the most expensive cities in the world for housing costs.

Redfin reports that the median home price in Sammamish is currently $1.56 million, which is a 2.6% increase from the previous year. This growth rate is slightly higher than the United States national average.

Renting in Sammamish is also expensive, with the average cost of living estimated to be 156.7% of the national average, making it one of the most expensive cities in the US, according to ZeroDown.

Despite the high housing costs, Sammamish remains an attractive place to live due to its natural beauty, excellent schools, and high quality of life. However, those looking to move to Sammamish should be prepared to pay a premium for housing.

Here is a summary of the housing costs in Sammamish:

Overall, Sammamish’s housing costs are significantly higher than the national average, which may be a consideration for those looking to relocate to the area.

Transportation Expenses

Sammamish, Washington, has a higher cost of living compared to the national average. This includes transportation expenses. The cost of transportation in Sammamish is 43.6% higher than the US average.

The cost of gasoline and fuel oil is a significant expense in Sammamish. According to the 2023 Cost of Living Calculator for Transportation, the transportation cost index in Sammamish is 143.6 compared to the US average of 100. Gasoline prices in Sammamish are 30.4% higher than the US average.

However, Sammamish residents can take advantage of public transportation options to save money on transportation expenses. The Seattle area has a robust public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries. Public transportation is 4.2% cheaper in Seattle than in Sammamish, according to the same cost of living calculator.

Sammamish residents who own cars can also save money on transportation expenses by carpooling or using ride-sharing services. Carpooling and ride-sharing can help reduce the cost of gasoline and maintenance expenses.

Overall, transportation expenses in Sammamish are higher than the US average, but there are ways for residents to save money on transportation costs.

Grocery and Food Costs

Sammamish, Washington is known for its high cost of living, and grocery and food costs are no exception. According to the 2023 Cost of Living Calculator for Food and Groceries, food and groceries in Sammamish are 2.3% more expensive than in Seattle, Washington. This means that residents of Sammamish can expect to pay a premium for their groceries and food.

The average cost of living in Sammamish is $2670, which is in the top 3% of the most expensive cities in the world. This high cost of living is reflected in the prices of groceries and food. For example, grocery prices in Sammamish are 25% higher than the national average, according to PayScale.

Despite the high prices, there are many options for grocery shopping in Sammamish. The city has several grocery stores, including Safeway, QFC, and Trader Joe’s. These stores offer a wide variety of food options, from fresh produce to packaged goods. In addition, there are several farmers markets in the area, where residents can purchase locally grown produce and other goods.

For those who prefer to eat out, Sammamish has a variety of restaurants to choose from. However, eating out can be expensive, with the average meal costing around $20. Some popular restaurants in Sammamish include Plateau Kitchen, Thai Ginger, and Sammamish Cafe.

Overall, while grocery and food costs in Sammamish are high, residents have access to a variety of options for both grocery shopping and dining out.

Healthcare Expenses

Sammamish has a high cost of living, and healthcare expenses are no exception. The cost of healthcare in Sammamish is 15% higher than the national average. However, the quality of healthcare in the city is exceptional, with several top-rated hospitals and medical centers.

In terms of health insurance premiums, Sammamish residents pay an average of $483 per month, which is 10% higher than the national average. The cost of deductibles and copays varies depending on the plan and provider. It is recommended that residents compare plans and providers to find the best coverage at the most affordable price.

Prescription drugs are another healthcare expense that residents should consider. The cost of prescription drugs in Sammamish is 12% higher than the national average. However, there are several ways residents can reduce their prescription drug costs, such as:

• Using generic drugs instead of brand-name drugs
• Utilizing discount programs offered by pharmacies and drug manufacturers
• Asking their healthcare provider for samples or coupons

Overall, while healthcare expenses in Sammamish may be higher than the national average, residents can take steps to reduce their costs and find the best coverage for their needs.

Taxes in Sammamish

When it comes to taxes in Sammamish, there are several factors to consider. The following information can help individuals get a better understanding of what to expect when it comes to taxes in this city.

Federal Income Tax

Like all residents of the United States, those living in Sammamish are required to pay federal income tax. The amount of federal income tax paid depends on an individual’s income level and other factors. For those earning $60,000 per year, the federal income tax paid in Sammamish would be the same as the amount paid anywhere else in the United States.

State Income Tax

Washington state does not have a state income tax. This means that residents of Sammamish do not need to worry about paying state income tax.

Sales Tax

The sales tax in Sammamish is 10%. This is higher than the national average sales tax rate of 7.3%. Sales tax is applied to most goods and services purchased in the city.

Property Tax

Property tax rates in Sammamish are higher than the national average. The property tax rate in Sammamish is 1.01%, while the national average is 0.78%. This means that homeowners in Sammamish can expect to pay more in property taxes than homeowners in other parts of the country.

Auto Sales Taxes

Auto sales taxes in Sammamish are amortized over six years. This means that the amount of auto sales tax paid each year depends on the age of the vehicle. For example, the auto sales tax paid on a new car in Sammamish would be higher than the amount paid on a car that is six years old.

Overall, taxes in Sammamish are higher than the national average. However, the lack of a state income tax can help offset some of these costs for residents.

Education Costs

When it comes to education costs in Sammamish, Washington, there are several factors to consider. The city is home to several public and private schools, as well as higher education institutions, such as Bellevue College and Lake Washington Institute of Technology.

Public Schools

Sammamish is part of the Lake Washington School District, which includes 31 elementary schools, 13 middle schools, and 9 high schools. The district provides a quality education to students and has a graduation rate of 94.6%. The cost of attending public schools in Sammamish is included in property taxes, which are among the highest in the state.

Private Schools

There are several private schools in Sammamish, including Eastside Catholic School and the Overlake School. These schools offer a range of educational programs, including Montessori and International Baccalaureate programs. The cost of private education in Sammamish varies depending on the school, but can range from $10,000 to $30,000 per year.

Higher Education

Sammamish is located near several higher education institutions, including Bellevue College and Lake Washington Institute of Technology. These institutions offer a range of programs, from two-year degrees to vocational training. The cost of attending these institutions varies depending on the program and the student’s residency status. For example, tuition for in-state students at Bellevue College is $3,780 per year, while out-of-state tuition is $9,246 per year.

Overall, the cost of education in Sammamish varies depending on the type of institution and program. However, the city offers a range of educational opportunities for students of all ages.

Entertainment and Recreation Expenses

Sammamish, Washington is a great place for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The city has many parks, hiking trails, and lakes where residents can enjoy nature. However, these activities can come with a cost.

For example, some of the popular outdoor activities in Sammamish include hiking, fishing, and boating. These activities require equipment such as fishing rods, boats, and hiking boots, which can be expensive. Additionally, some of the parks in Sammamish require visitors to pay a fee for parking.

When it comes to indoor entertainment, Sammamish offers a variety of options including movie theaters, bowling alleys, and indoor sports facilities. These activities can also come with a cost, especially if they are done frequently.

Overall, the cost of entertainment and recreation in Sammamish can vary depending on the individual’s preferences and frequency of activities. However, it is important to budget for these expenses when planning a move to the city.

Summary of Sammamish Cost of Living

Sammamish, Washington is a beautiful city that offers its residents a high quality of life. However, with its beauty comes a high cost of living. According to the search results, the cost of living in Sammamish is 210.8, which is more than double the national average of 100.

Housing is the biggest contributor to the high cost of living in Sammamish. The median house value in Sammamish is around $1.3954 million, which is almost four times higher than the national average house value of $338,100. Additionally, the cost of rent is also high, with the median rent being $1,155,526.

Transportation and food are also relatively expensive in Sammamish, with prices up 2.8% from a year ago. However, the city’s grocery prices are only 25% higher than the national average. The energy bill, phone bill, and gas prices are also higher than the national average.

Despite the high cost of living, Sammamish offers its residents a high quality of life. The city has excellent schools, a low crime rate, and numerous parks and recreational activities. The median after-tax salary in Sammamish is $5,700, which is enough to cover living expenses for 2.1 months.

Overall, Sammamish is an expensive city to live in, but its high quality of life makes it worth the cost for many residents.