2026 Compare Cities Cost of Living:
Arcata, CA vs Kelso, WA

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Highlights
Is it cheaper to live in Kelso or is it cheaper to live in Arcata?
- Kelso is 5.1% less expensive than Arcata.

Which city has more affordable housing, Kelso or Arcata?
- Kelso housing costs are 16.9% less expensive than Arcata housing costs.

Is Health Care more affordable in Arcata or is Health Care more affordable in Kelso.
- Health related expenses are 13.6% less in Kelso.
 Arcata, CAKelso, WAUnited States
 Overall  Unlock102.5100
 Food & Groceries101.7  Unlock100
 Health  Unlock101.7100
 Housing136.4  Unlock100
 Median Home Cost  Unlock$341,600$338,100
 Utilities88  Unlock100
 Transportation  Unlock90.8100
 Miscellaneous117.1  Unlock100
100 = National Average (Below 100 means cheaper than the US average. Above 100 means more expensive.)
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Reviews for Arcata    17 Reviews

Pros: Nature hikes Cons: One of highest crime rates in the nation. Opioid epidemic going on (you’ll regularly witness drug deals and ppl doing drugs) No  More

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It takes a special set of preferences to select Arcata. Is this you? - You love clouds and fog. You are happy if you see the sun maybe 10-20 times a year. - Chilly  More

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Over 12 years ago

I've lived in Humboldt for over 30 yrs and know all the areas well. Arcata is the jewel of Humboldt due to having a university and many liberal creative people. There is  More

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Reviews for Kelso    3 Reviews

Disclaimer: This was written in 2019. All info subject to change! Kelso is a quieter town, with a lot to offer if you have the money. If you do NOT have money, the  More

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Over 16 years ago

It rains here so much if you have SAD do not move here. If you have allergies not a good place to  More

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Over 16 years ago

It is overcast here a lot and not good if you are  More

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