The Truth About Living in Spokane: Brutally Honest Reviews from Locals

Spokane, Washington—a city some people absolutely love, while others... not so much. But what's the real story? In this post, we’ll break down some of the most brutally honest reviews about living in Spokane and see if the internet got it right.

Spokane’s Overall Reputation: A City with a Solid Rating

Looking at Spokane’s ratings on Niche.com, the general consensus is that the city sits at an average of four stars. There are a good number of excellent and very good reviews, while a smaller percentage of people rate the city as poor or terrible.

So, what makes Spokane so loved (or not)? Let’s dive into real experiences from locals.

The Positives: What Locals Love About Spokane

A Strong Library System & Community Resources

Many residents highlight Spokane’s excellent library system, which has undergone significant renovations in recent years. These libraries offer interactive playsets for kids and numerous free programs for adults, from gardening workshops to educational classes.

A Big Small-Town Feel

One resident describes Spokane as “a really big small town.” It has a growing population of over 500,000, yet it retains a strong sense of community. If you want to make an impact here—whether through nonprofit work, networking, or business—you absolutely can. Spokane is small enough that you can get to know people quickly, but big enough to offer plenty of opportunities.

Outdoor Recreation & Natural Beauty

If you love the outdoors, Spokane is a dream. The city is surrounded by hiking trails, fishing spots, lakes, and scenic river parks. Spokane’s outdoor scene is a major draw, with activities available in every season, including skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking.

A Laid-Back, Neighborly Community

Residents consistently mention how easy it is to get to know their neighbors. Many have built strong friendships within their communities, and local breweries, coffee shops, and neighborhood events make it easy to meet new people.

Cultural Scene & Downtown Amenities

While Spokane isn’t a major metro, it still boasts a vibrant cultural scene with Broadway shows, live music, and art festivals. Residents appreciate the mix of urban conveniences with a slower, more relaxed pace of life.

The Mixed Reviews: Spokane’s Growing Pains

Housing Affordability & Job Market Challenges

Housing affordability is a growing issue in Spokane. While still cheaper than Seattle, the local income levels don’t necessarily support the rising cost of homes. Many locals express frustration that wages haven’t kept pace with housing costs, making it difficult for single-income households to purchase a home.

The job market is another mixed bag. Spokane has jobs, but many are in industries like healthcare, education, and retail, with fewer high-paying tech or corporate opportunities. If you’re in sales or a medical profession, you’ll likely have an easier time finding work.

Concerns About Growth & Infrastructure

Spokane has seen rapid growth, which comes with challenges. Long-time residents lament that the city has changed significantly, with more traffic, increased apartment construction, and a growing homelessness issue. Infrastructure, including road maintenance, hasn’t always kept up with the growth.

Public Transportation & Biking Issues

Spokane’s public transportation system has room for improvement. Buses can be unreliable, and while efforts like the “27 by 27” plan aim to add more bike lanes, many locals feel that the city still has a long way to go in terms of walkability and transit options.

The Negatives: Common Complaints About Spokane

Crime & Homelessness

Crime and homelessness are recurring concerns in Spokane. Many locals feel that property crime, especially car break-ins and theft, is an issue that doesn’t receive enough attention from city leadership. The downtown area, in particular, sees mixed reviews—some people feel safe, while others avoid it at night due to concerns about crime.

Road Conditions & Potholes

One of the most frequent complaints is Spokane’s roads. Potholes are a serious issue, especially in winter and spring when the freeze-thaw cycle wreaks havoc on the asphalt. While the city does work on repairs, locals often joke that Spokane’s official flower should be the orange traffic cone.

Lack of Diversity

Several reviews mention that Spokane is not a particularly diverse city. People moving from larger metro areas like Seattle sometimes experience culture shock due to the city’s predominantly white population. While efforts are being made to increase inclusivity, Spokane still lacks the multicultural vibrancy of bigger cities.

Small-Town Entertainment Options

For some, Spokane’s entertainment scene is lacking. While there’s plenty to do outdoors, those looking for a buzzing nightlife, major concert tours, or a variety of upscale restaurants might find themselves traveling to bigger cities like Seattle or Portland.

Who Would Love Spokane?

• Outdoor lovers – Hikers, skiers, mountain bikers, and anyone who enjoys being surrounded by nature.

• People looking for a slower pace of life – Spokane is a great fit for those who want city amenities without big-city chaos.

• Families and retirees – Spokane’s community feel and affordability (compared to the West Coast) make it attractive for families and older adults looking for a quieter place to live.

• Remote workers – With lower living costs than Seattle or California, remote workers can enjoy Spokane’s perks without needing to rely on the local job market.

Who Might Struggle in Spokane?

• Those needing warm weather year-round – Winters can be long and cold, and snow removal can be frustrating.

• People looking for a big-city job market – Spokane has fewer corporate jobs, especially in tech and finance.

• Those bothered by homelessness or infrastructure issues – Spokane, like many mid-sized cities, is dealing with these challenges, and progress can be slow.

Final Thoughts: Is Spokane Right for You?

Spokane isn’t for everyone, but for those who love nature, community, and a more laid-back lifestyle, it can be a fantastic place to live. If you’re considering moving here, take the time to visit, talk to locals, and explore different neighborhoods to see if Spokane is the right fit for you.

What’s your take on Spokane? Whether you’ve lived here for years or just visited, share your thoughts on the city!