The further you get from King County, the cheaper it is to live. The cost of living is a little high IMO. No income tax. High sales tax.
Right around where I live... apartments cost from about $800-1400/mo for 2 BR. You can find better or worse, depending on where exactly you want to live and how nice a neighborhood. I'm in Renton. In my neighborhood, house rentals are about $1100-2000/mo, but I'm real close to Lake Washington.
Over by Bremerton, I don't know exactly, but I'd imagine a bit cheaper :)
Gun laws are for the most part good. Shall issue CPL (concealed pistol license). No course required. Just meet the requirements, apply, fingerprints, pay fee, must issue in 30 days (after you've been here 60 or 90 days).
Worst part of gun laws... no machine guns or short barreled rifles/shotguns. You can own a silencer, but not shoot a gun with a silencer on it.
The gunshows in my immediate area are
www.washingtonarmscollectors.org shows. You pay a membership, get background check, then can buy firearms from private individuals. If you buy from a dealer at the show, then NICS check.
I'll try to get some links for you.
You've probably already check out
www.seattletimes.com