Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cheney, WA
Considering a move to Cheney, WA? Cheney offers a close-knit, college-town feel with a population of about 13,255 and the presence of Eastern Washington University. Housing is affordable, with a median home price of $320,000 and average 2-bedroom rents around $1,150. The city boasts a low violent crime rate (157 per 100k), short average commutes of just under 19 minutes, and access to good local schools and healthcare. Cheney's youthful energy, mild summers, and friendly community make it a great choice for students, families, and anyone seeking a relaxed Pacific Northwest lifestyle.
Demographics - Cheney, WA
Demographics - Cheney, WA
Cheney, WA is a youthful and diverse college town with a population of 13,255 and a median age of 22.9, largely influenced by its university presence. The community is predominantly White, with smaller populations of Asian, Black, and other ethnicities, and about 7% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The gender balance is nearly even, contributing to a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
Population:
13,255
Density:
2,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
22.9
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.4%

Ethnic Composition
White:
82.1%
Black:
2.6%
Asian:
2.8%
Others:
12.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cheney, WA?
Cheney offers affordable living, with a median home value of $320,000 and average rents around $1,150 for a two-bedroom apartment. The overall cost of living index slightly exceeds the national average, but utility and grocery costs remain reasonable. State taxes are moderate, and homeowners with mortgages typically pay about $1,670 per month.
Median House Value:
$320,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,330
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,670
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$470
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
102.0
Grocery:
99.5
Housing:
105.3
Utilities:
97.8
Transportation:
102.7
Health Care:
102.1
Miscellaneous:
98.4
Crime
Is Cheney, WA a safe place to live?
Cheney is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 157 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 637 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime occurs more frequently, but overall, the city's crime index suggests a secure environment for families and students. Residents generally enjoy peace of mind in daily life.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
157
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,545
Crime Index:
1,702
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 637
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 65
Weather
What is the weather like in Cheney, WA year-round?
Residents of Cheney experience four distinct seasons, including mild summers with highs around 83°F and cold winters where lows can dip to 22°F. The area receives about 17 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine on 51% of the days. This climate offers a comfortable balance for outdoor enthusiasts and those who prefer a variety of seasonal activities.

Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
17.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
Cheney's community is shaped by its youthful, student-driven population, reflected in a median income of $22,600 and a higher-than-average poverty rate of 31.1%. Most residents have completed high school, and about a third hold a bachelor's degree or higher, contributing to an educated and dynamic local culture. Short average commutes and moderate rental costs make the area accessible for a range of residents.
Median Income:
$22,600
Household Income:
$43,800
Family Income:
$64,400
Per Capita Income:
$18,200
Income Male:
$22,300
Income Female:
$21,100
Poverty Rate:
31.1%
Non English Speakers:
7.4%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
3.2%
Commute Time:
18.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.3%
Bachelors or More:
32.2%
Education
How are the schools in Cheney, WA?
Cheney offers strong educational opportunities from kindergarten through college, including local public schools like Cheney High School and Betz Elementary. Eastern Washington University is located in the city, providing higher education options for nearly 11,000 students and enriching the community’s educational environment. Access to both public and private schooling options makes Cheney attractive for families and learners of all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Cheney High School
Street:
460 N 6th St
Phone:
509-559-4000
Students:
1,250
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.5
Name:
Betz Elementary School
Street:
317 N 7th St
Phone:
509-559-4800
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.7

Private Schools
Name:
St. Rose Catholic School
Street:
520 N 6th St
Phone:
509-235-3539
Students:
130

Colleges
Name:
Eastern Washington University
City:
Cheney
State:
WA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
10,892
Name:
Spokane Falls Community College
City:
Spokane
State:
WA
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
4,300
Healthcare
Cheney residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like MultiCare Deaconess and Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center nearby in Spokane. The city boasts a high rate of health insurance coverage at 93.5% and 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring comprehensive medical support. Health care services are accessible and reliable for families and students alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
MultiCare Deaconess Hospital
Address:
800 W 5th Ave, Spokane, WA 99204
Phone:
(509) 473-5800
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center
Address:
101 W 8th Ave, Spokane, WA 99204
Phone:
(509) 474-3131
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.5%
Health Care Index:
71.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cheney, WA?
Cheney’s housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $320,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,150. The area features a mix of owners and renters, with a 36.9% owner-occupancy rate and low foreclosure rates. Modest home appreciation and new construction provide opportunities for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$320,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
36.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents of Cheney can access vehicle and licensing services through the Washington State Department of Licensing, with the main office located in Lacey and comprehensive resources available online. The DMV provides essential services for driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, and more. Convenient access helps newcomers and locals manage transportation needs efficiently.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
3000 Lacey Blvd SE, Lacey, WA 98503
Phone:
360-902-3900
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.