Los Angeles vs Washington
Side-by-side rent vs buy analysis comparing these two markets
Overall Comparison
Washington has an edge
Washington edges ahead based on overall market conditions.
Median Home PriceBETTER
$770,000
Median RentBETTER
$2,850/mo
Price-to-Rent Ratio
22.5
Property Tax RateBETTER
0.73%
Price Change (1Y)BETTER
+5.3%
Price Change (5Y)BETTER
+39.0%
Break-Even Years
13 years
10-Year Wealth Difference
$80,000
Median Home Price
$780,000
Median Rent
$3,350/mo
Price-to-Rent RatioBETTER
19.4
Property Tax Rate
0.85%
Price Change (1Y)
+3.2%
Price Change (5Y)
+22.0%
Break-Even YearsBETTER
8 years
10-Year Wealth DifferenceBETTER
$5,000
Key Differences
Home Prices
Los Angeles's median home price of $770,000 is lower than Washington's $780,000 by 1%.
Monthly Rent
Renting in Los Angeles costs $2,850/mo compared to $3,350/mo in Washington—a difference of $500/mo.
Buy vs Rent Verdict
Los Angeles favors renting, while Washington favors either option.
Break-Even Timeline
Buying breaks even in 13 years in Los Angeles vs 8 years in Washington.
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.