SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane and Pasco have emerged as top choices for retirees according to Forbes’ recent comparison of over 950 cities in America.
The Forbes report listed both cities as attractive options for retirees looking for a balance of affordability, healthcare and quality of life in Washington.
The cities were evaluated based on factors such as housing costs, taxes and climate.
Forbes touted Spokane, with a population of 230,000, for its median home price of $390,000, which is 3% below the national median, while the cost of living is 3% above the national average.
The city boasts a good ratio of primary care physicians per capita and has commendable air quality. It is very bikeable and relatively low in terms of natural hazard vulnerability.
Spokane also offers a favorable retiree tax climate with no state income tax, although there is a 7% excise tax on certain investment gains above $270,000 and a state estate tax.
However, retirees should note the city’s cold winters and a serious crime rate above the national average.
Pasco is home to 82,000 residents with a median home price of $406,000, 1% above the national median, and the cost of living is 3% below the national average.
Pasco offers a comfortable climate with its lower elevation and a serious crime rate below the national average, according to the report.
However, Pasco is not very walkable or bikeable, the report added.
