Pasco, WA: The 2026 Relocation Deep Dive

Pasco: The Data Profile (2026)

Pasco represents a specific economic anomaly in the 2026 Pacific Northwest landscape. With a population of 81,415, it operates as a smaller city with a distinct income advantage. The median income sits at $84,337, which is 13.1% higher than the US median of $74,580. However, this economic strength is not mirrored in educational attainment; only 23.0% of the population holds a bachelor's degree or higher, significantly below the US average of 33.1%.

The statistical target demographic for Pasco in the post-remote era is the "Blue-Collar/Logistics Affluent." This profile fits individuals working in regional logistics, agriculture technology, or manufacturing who earn above-average wages but seek a lower cost of living than Seattle or Spokane. It is ideal for those prioritizing disposable income over high educational density or urban cultural indexes.

Cost of Living Analysis

Despite a median income 13.1% above the national average, Pasco's cost of living index reveals a pressure point: Housing. While groceries (98.8 index) and electricity (11.9 cents/kWh vs US 16.0 cents/kWh) offer relief, housing sits at 118.0 index (+18.0%). This creates a unique "wealth retention" zone where high earners can capitalize on lower utility and food costs to offset the housing premium.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis
A single professional earning the median $84,337 takes home approximately $5,100 monthly after taxes. With a total monthly spend of roughly $3,153 (Rent + Excl. Rent), the disposable income remainder is $1,947. This is 12% higher than the US average disposable income, driven primarily by the 11.9 cent/kWh electricity rate which saves residents approximately $40/month compared to the national average.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the defining financial risk of Pasco. While rent for a 2-bedroom ($1,538/mo) is lower than many coastal cities, it is inflated relative to the local service economy. The Housing Index of 118.0 indicates that real estate is valued 18.0% higher than the national baseline. The Price per Square Foot of $245 confirms that inventory is tight.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Buy vs. Rent Relative to National Curve
Buying in Pasco is currently more expensive relative to the national curve than renting. The 18.0% premium on median home prices ($425,000) outpaces the rent inflation (+4.2% for 1BR). For the 2026 remote worker, renting is financially safer unless property values appreciate at 5%+ annually. The break-even point for buying vs. renting is approximately 6 years, assuming standard appreciation.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The Return-to-Office (RTO) mandate of 2025 has solidified Pasco's role as a logistics hub rather than a commuter satellite. Proximity to the Tri-Cities Airport (PSC) and major distribution centers keeps the local economy stable. However, the commute times are increasing due to population influx; the average commute is now 24 minutes, up from 21 minutes in 2022.

The unemployment rate sits at 4.6%, which is 0.6% higher than the national average of 4.0%. This slight surplus indicates a labor market that is tight but not desperate, with a heavy reliance on seasonal agricultural support and warehousing.

Quality of Life Audit

Pasco offers a mixed bag for quality of life. The Air Quality is exceptional, with an AQI Average of 20 (Good) and PM2.5 levels of 4.5 µg/m³, significantly cleaner than the national average. However, health risk factors are elevated. The obesity rate is 35.6%, compared to the US average of 31.9%, and the Health Score is 79.7/100.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety Analysis
Safety is a bifurcated metric. Violent Crime is 372/100k, essentially identical to the US average of 380/100k. However, Property Crime is a significant outlier at 3,457/100k, which is 73% higher than the national average of 2,000/100k. Residents must account for higher property insurance premiums and security measures.

Schools & Weather
School ratings in Pasco average a 5/10 on major real estate aggregators, aligning with the lower college-educated percentage (23.0%). Weather-wise, the current snapshot of 28.0°F with highs of 45°F reflects the high-desert winter climate—dry, cloudy, and cold, but generally milder than the wet side of the Cascades.

The Verdict

Pros:

• High Disposable Income: Earning $84,337 vs. paying 11.9 cents/kWh for electricity creates a strong savings window.
• Air Quality: An AQI of 20 is a top-tier asset for respiratory health.
• Income-to-Rent Ratio: A single earner can afford a 1BR on ~25% of take-home pay.

Cons:

• Property Crime: At 3,457/100k, the risk is substantially elevated.
• Housing Value: Buying at a 18.0% premium is risky without significant wage growth.
• Health Factors: Obesity rates (35.6%) suggest a challenging environment for maintaining healthy lifestyle habits.

Final Recommendation
Pasco is a Strong Buy for Renters and a Caution for Buyers in 2026. It is ideal for high-earning blue-collar professionals or remote workers with stable internet who prioritize utility savings and air quality over cultural density and property crime safety. If your priority is wealth accumulation via low overhead, Pasco is statistically superior to the national average. If your priority is safety and long-term asset appreciation, look elsewhere.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Pasco?
To live comfortably (following the 30% rent rule), you need a salary of approximately $61,500. However, to match the median household income of $84,337 and maximize savings, a salary of $85,000+ is recommended to offset the 18.0% housing premium.

2. How does Pasco's value compare to other cities?
Pasco offers 18.0% higher housing costs than the US average but 13.1% higher income. Compared to Seattle (where housing is ~150% of US avg), Pasco is a value play. Compared to Spokane (where housing is ~105% of US avg), Pasco is more expensive but offers higher wages.

3. Are the safety statistics reliable?
Yes. The data indicates a split: Violent crime is average (372/100k), but Property crime is critically high (3,457/100k). You are statistically safe from physical harm, but your vehicle or home is at elevated risk.

4. When is the best time to relocate?
The best time to relocate is Spring (April–May). This avoids the winter low of 28°F and the summer heat spikes (often 95°F+), which drive up electricity costs despite the low rate of 11.9 cents/kWh.