Cheney, a college town near eastern Washington’s wilderness
Just southwest of Spokane, Cheney is a small city known for being the home of Eastern Washington University. Students and people unaffiliated with EWU make their lives here, drawn to a mix of older and newer construction houses, access to Interstate 90 and the proximity of major hiking trails through the rocky Channeled Scablands region. Cheney combines the comforts of beloved local businesses, community events and college town energy with the rugged recreation destinations of rural Spokane County.
Eastern Washington University attracts students to Cheney from all over the state.
Downtown Spokane offers beautiful views over the Spokane river.
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A range of historic and modern homes for prices comparable to Spokane
While many people rent apartments in Cheney, there are still plenty of opportunities to own. Residential roads rise into hills off of First Street, lined by a mix of Victorian and National homes built in the late 1800s to early 1900s. Decades of development from the 1950s through 1970s brought in blocks of ranch-style homes, Colonial Revivals and bi-levels. Since the 1990s, New Traditional houses in different sizes and levels of luxury have been built in suburban subdivisions. Most homes are on smaller city lots or in suburban subdivisions, but you can find custom estates or historic farmhouses on acreage on Cheney’s outskirts.
Single-family homes built before the 1990s sell from the lower $200,000s to the mid-$400,000s. Houses built since the 1990s range from the lower $300,000s to the mid-$600,000s. Cheney’s median single-family home price is in the lower $400,000s. That’s on par with nearby Spokane, but the typical house in Cheney was built in the 2000s, while Spokane’s median build year is in the 1950s.
Modern subdivisions are starting to become more popular in Cheney.
Small bungalows make up a majority of the historic homes in Cheney.
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Academics and affordability at EWU and Cheney School District
At Eastern Washington University, about 10,000 students work toward earning undergraduate and graduate degrees, alongside other polytechnical and professional certificates. “I think, on the whole, the university is a huge plus for most residents,” says Realtor Steven Silbar of John L. Scott Realty, who has served the area for over 8 years. “Even if you don’t work there, everyone goes to the football games in the fall or basketball in the winter.” Eagle Nation pride and affordability draw many to EWU, with the institution boasting the lowest in-state tuition of all of Washington’s public universities.
The city’s younger students are served by Cheney School District. Kids can attend Cheney High School, which offers access to the "EWU in the High School" program. Through the program, public school students can earn college credit while in high school at no cost.
Eastern Washington University provides lots of entertainment for the community.
Cheney High School is located just a few minutes from the university.
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City parks near major eastern Washington recreation hubs
From Cheney, residents can go down the street to city parks or out into the rugged, recreation-packed wilderness of eastern Washington. Sutton Park is a pine-shaded green space with a playground, picnic areas and winding walking paths. The Columbia Plateau State Park Trail takes cyclists, hikers and cross-country skiers through the Channeled Scablands, a region of meandering channels and basins carved by glaciers. You can find many towns and recreation hubs along that 130-mile path, including the nearby Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge. Spanning 20,000 acres of wetlands and forests, the refuge promises visitors opportunities to spot elk, moose and many bird species on scenic auto tours and hikes. Fish Lake Regional Park, a popular spot for kayaking, swimming and fishing, is also along the trail, just outside of Cheney.
Cheney is surrounded by plenty of green space.
Cheney has a couple outdoor laboratories at the Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge.
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Small businesses and eateries along First and Second streets
Many of Cheney’s locally owned businesses line First and Second Streets. “It has more of a small-town feel, obviously, which is a real draw. But, you still have supermarkets and restaurants and a little bit of culture and sports through EWU, so it’s not like you have to go to Spokane all the time if you don’t want to,” says Mike Bass, a Realtor with Century 21 Beutler & Associates. Residents love restaurants like:
The Mason Jar, a cafe serving locally sourced coffee and seasonal menu items
Bene's, a brunch spot known for its many creative variations of eggs Benedict
Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant, a casual eatery known for quick service and authentic Mexican staples
Barrelhouse Pub & Pizza, where locals enjoy beers and Italian comfort food
Eagle's Pub, a place to order drinks, shoot pool, play trivia and sing some karaoke
The Mason Jar Coffee is a local favorite to stop by in downtown Cheney.
Many locals come to downtown Cheney to shop or visit one of the local restaurants.
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Commuting around Spokane County
State Route 904 connects to Interstate 90, a major highway that can take you from Cheney to Downtown Spokane in about 25 minutes. You’re only about 20 minutes from Fairchild Air Force Base, a major employer, and Spokane International Airport. The Spokane Transit Authority operates multiple bus routes in the city, including express routes to Spokane and local loops around Eastern Washington University and the rest of Cheney.
The Spokane International Airport is close to home.
You're not far from Interstate 90.
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Cheney’s college events and small-town festivals
Cheney hosts several community events throughout the year, many connected to Eastern Washington University. Some of the most popular include:
Cheney Rodeo, a multi-day PRCA rodeo each July that brings a parade, live music and vendors to downtown
Homecoming Weekend, the highlight of football season for EWU students, alumni and other community members
Cheney Farmers Market, a pop-up at Veterans Memorial Park that continues through the warmer months
The Cheney Rodeo is hosted the second weekend in July every year.
Cheney hosts many events for their students during the summer months.
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Written By
Julia Szymanski
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Wong
Video By
Luke Basinger
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mike Meyer,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Cheney, WA sell after 63 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Cheney, WA over the last 12 months is $407,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Impeccably maintained rancher ideally positioned on the golf course with serene water views and a peaceful setting. This beautifully designed home offers 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with upscale finishes throughout, including luxury LVP flooring and elegant tile work. The open-concept layout is enhanced by surround sound inside and out, creating the perfect atmosphere for entertaining or relaxing
Welcome to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom turnkey home on Badger Lake in Cheney. Offering direct primary lakefront access and the ability to secure a boat slip, this property perfectly combines incredible waterfront living with an updated interior. The heart of the home features a fully remodeled kitchen with new countertops, refinished cabinets, a new sink, and updated flooring,
Back on Market at no fault of sellers - buyer's couldn't get their home under contract. Well-maintained and thoughtfully updated 4 bed, 3 bath home on 4.4 fully fenced acres. This property combines functionality and comfort with multiple living spaces, including a theater room! Recent upgrades include new HVAC (2024), water heater (2024), garage openers (2025), hot tub (2021), primary bath
Modern Home with Practical Design. This newer home with four bedrooms and two bathrooms is designed for practical daily living. High ceilings enhance the open concept layout that connects the main living areas, creating clear sight lines and easy flow. Generous window placement brings in steady natural light without sacrificing privacy. Quartz countertops anchor the kitchen island, paired with
Location, convenience, and opportunity all in one! Just a few blocks from Eastern Washington University and moments from the heart of downtown Cheney, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath home offers the flexibility today's buyers are looking for! Whether you're ready to stop renting, purchasing for a student, or adding a solid property to your investment portfolio, this home is an easy fit. Inside, you'll
Impeccably maintained rancher ideally positioned on the golf course with serene water views and a peaceful setting. This beautifully designed home offers 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with upscale finishes throughout, including luxury LVP flooring and elegant tile work. The open-concept layout is enhanced by surround sound inside and out, creating the perfect atmosphere for entertaining or relaxing
Looking for low maintenance living. This newer build home has 4 spacious bedrooms and 2 beautiful bathrooms. Entry is only one step in and is a classic rancher. The yard is manageable with a nice secluded patio off the dining room.Gas range and instant hot water. Take as long as you like in the shower or enjoy a nice hot bath while the laundry runs. The master bedroom has a very roomy walk in
Effortless comfort in this beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home in the charming town of Cheney, where space, comfort, and scenery come together. The light-filled living room is highlighted by soaring vaulted ceilings that create an open, welcoming atmosphere. The kitchen is thoughtfully laid out with quartz countertops, abundant cabinet storage, and ample workspace; ideal for home
Charming Craftsman character meets exceptional convenience just one block from the Eastern Washington University campus. The main level features two comfortable bedrooms, a full bathroom, a functional kitchen with built-in cabinetry including an electric range and refrigerator, plus a formal dining room for gathering with family and friends. Upstairs, the finished attic provides a versatile space
Tucked away on 6.49 private acres, this exceptional property offers the perfect blend of seclusion, convenience, and readiness to build. Situated just off a paved road, a newly installed driveway leads you into a peaceful, wooded setting where a cleared homesite is already prepared—saving you time, money, and hassle. This property is truly build-ready, featuring a high-producing well with pump
Position your next investment just 1⁄2 mile from Eastern Washington University with this rare, build-ready duplex opportunity in Cheney. Terra Vista offers six R-3 zoned duplex lots—ideal for owner-occupants seeking income potential or investors building long-term rentals in a high-demand location. Lots are $125,000 each, or $720,000 for all six, reflecting a $5,000 per-lot discount for bulk
Position your next investment just 1⁄2 mile from Eastern Washington University with this rare, build-ready duplex opportunity in Cheney. Terra Vista offers six R-3 zoned duplex lots—ideal for owner-occupants seeking income potential or investors building long-term rentals in a high-demand location. Lots are $125,000 each, or $720,000 for all six, reflecting a $5,000 per-lot discount for bulk
Position your next investment just 1⁄2 mile from Eastern Washington University with this rare, build-ready duplex opportunity in Cheney. Terra Vista offers six R-3 zoned duplex lots—ideal for owner-occupants seeking income potential or investors building long-term rentals in a high-demand location. Lots are $125,000 each, or $720,000 for all six, reflecting a $5,000 per-lot discount for bulk
Potential Future Opportunities! This stunning 10-acre parcel sits directly across from The Fairways Golf Course, offering breathtaking views and endless potential. Located just minutes from town, this beautiful property combines peaceful country living with convenient access to amenities. A brand-new county park is being developed next door, adding even more appeal and future value. Whether
Incredible farm house on over 12 acres with amazing views of rolling hills! This one owner home checks so many boxes including 50X50 shop, over 3200 SF, awesome views all around, high producing well and so much more. Inside the home you will find vaulted ceilings with a cozy wood fireplace, main level primary ensuite, additional bedroom or office and a custom designed kitchen. Upstairs you will
Welcome to Eagle Point Apartments, a comfortable and conveniently located community in the heart of Cheney, Washington. Just minutes from Eastern Washington University and a short drive to Spokane, Eagle Point offers the ideal balance of peaceful living and easy access to everything you need.Choose from a variety of thoughtfully designed floor plans, including studios, one-, two-, three-,
At The Grand at Pine Ridge, comfort and convenience come together to create a place you'll love to call home. We offer spacious two- and three-bedroom apartment homes thoughtfully designed with open floor plans, modern amenities, and plenty of room to fit your lifestyle. Enjoy an array of community amenities, including a sparkling swimming pool, a 24-hour fitness room, and inviting gathering
The Benjamin Lofts delivers the BEST Cheney has to offer! One block away from EWU and a mild walk to downtown Cheney, your new home is located in the area's most prime location. We are an ALL-INCLUSIVE housing community with fully furnished units that are rented by the bedroom. Need a roommate? No worries, we can assist with that.
Adjacent to Salnave Park in Cheney, your new home is beautifully located with scenic views and easy access to everything. Five minutes to downtown Cheney, I-90 Access and Eastern WA University.
Welcome to The Boulder Apartments! Live an independent lifestyle near all the conveniences of Eastern Washington University. Our community consists of 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartment homes. Reserve your new apartment home today!NOTE: The Boulder Apartments does not accept comprehensive reusable tenant screening reports.
Welcome to Barrington Place Apartments, where cozy living meets convenience in Cheney, Washington. Our spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartments features in-unit home appliances, ample storage, and patios or balconies, designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming home.Enjoy community amenities like a fitness center, clubhouse, carports and garages, all supported by professional
Welcome to Rock Springs Apartments in Cheney, WA, where comfort living meets convenience! Our community offers spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartments designed with open-concept living spaces, fully equipped kitchens with in-unit appliances, and private patios or balconies. With an outdoor basketball court and beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces, Rock Springs Apartments provides a
"Let Us Find You Your New Home" ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED. Unit includes range, refrigerator, air conditioning. On-Site shared laundry. Close to EWU, Grocery Shopping, Parks & Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge. Covered parking available. For more information on these units or any others we may have available, please contact our office located at 304 1st Street #102 Cheney, WA. We are an Equal
We have 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms in this duplex-like community with a wide variety of floorplans. Perfect location at a great price. Quick access to Salnave Park, as well as an onsite park in the middle of the complex. This quiet, complex has mature landscaping and beautiful views. Close to grocery, Salnave Park, and along the STA bus line. For more information on these units or any others we may
Welcome to Cheney Park Commons! Our apartments in Cheney, WA offer modern amenities to enhance your living experience. Enjoy the convenience of ductless A/C and heat, in-unit laundry, and a storage room for all your belongings. Step outside onto your private patio and take in the fresh air or enjoy access to the nearby park for some outdoor relaxation. With an in-unit hot water tank and
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