Los Angeles vs Seattle
Side-by-side rent vs buy analysis comparing these two markets
Overall Comparison
Seattle has an edge
Seattle currently favors renting, with better rent-to-price dynamics.
Median Home Price
$770,000
Median Rent
$2,850/mo
Price-to-Rent RatioBETTER
22.5
Property Tax RateBETTER
0.73%
Price Change (1Y)BETTER
+5.3%
Price Change (5Y)BETTER
+39.0%
Break-Even YearsTIE
13 years
10-Year Wealth Difference
$80,000
Median Home PriceBETTER
$710,000
Median RentBETTER
$2,250/mo
Price-to-Rent Ratio
26.3
Property Tax Rate
0.98%
Price Change (1Y)
+4.0%
Price Change (5Y)
+32.0%
Break-Even YearsTIE
13 years
10-Year Wealth DifferenceBETTER
$75,000
Key Differences
Home Prices
Los Angeles's median home price of $770,000 is higher than Seattle's $710,000 by 8%.
Monthly Rent
Renting in Los Angeles costs $2,850/mo compared to $2,250/mo in Seattle—a difference of $600/mo.
Buy vs Rent Verdict
Both cities currently favor renting.
Break-Even Timeline
Buying breaks even in 13 years in Los Angeles vs 13 years in Seattle.
Run Your Own Numbers
This comparison uses median values. Your income, savings, and goals matter. Use our Buy vs Rent calculator to get a personalized analysis.