MacEwen
March 31, 2026
Stories this photo appears in:
March 31, 2026 2:50 p.m.
The high cost of Olympia’s hidden utility tax
Washingtonians are living through a relentless affordability crisis. From the grocery aisle to the gas pump, the cost of living has moved from “concerning” to “unsustainable.” Our state consistently ranks among the top three most expensive for gas, often a full dollar above the national average. Meanwhile, the average household income is roughly half of what is required to qualify for a median-priced home.