Exactly, you need 2 incomes to afford a decent house. And with a family relying on one income it feels that it's getting tougher and tougher.

Haven't looked into Monroe, as it's a bit far from where I work. I think I have been there once or twice though, since you live there don't you feel isolated being far from Seattle/Bellevue?

By then prices would've probably skyrocket again

I am still looking. There are a few that fit the budget and requirements but very rare. A decent 3-4 bedroom house is not less than 750-900k.

Just updated the post. It's mainly in Seattle and the surrounding areas