Living in Washington State comes with a higher-than-average cost of living, largely driven by housing prices—but not every city carries the same price tag. Gig Harbor offers a compelling balance of waterfront lifestyle, strong community, and relative affordability compared to other high-cost Washington cities. In this guide, we break down Washington’s cost of living, compare Gig Harbor to surrounding markets, and explain how smart planning can help you make a confident, financially sound move.