Los Angeles vs San Diego: Cost of Living

9%

San Diego is about 9% more expensive than Los Angeles overall.

How Los Angeles Compares to San Diego

Category by category

Renting ▼ 19%
Buying ▼ 3%
Goods ▲ 5%
Services ▼ 7%

Key Facts

Los AngelesSan Diego
Median Rent$1,958/mo$2,414/mo
Median Home$947,900$980,700
Median Income$82,263$111,032
State Income TaxUp to 13.3%Up to 13.3%
Sales Tax9.5%7.75%

Housing: The Biggest Difference

Los Angeles has the lower median home price by $32,800. Monthly rent is $456/month cheaper in Los Angeles.

Compare With Your Salary

Sources: Housing from Census ACS 2024. Goods and services from BEA Regional Price Parities 2023. Taxes from Tax Foundation. Full disclaimer.

Los Angeles vs San Diego FAQ

Rent is $456/month cheaper in Los Angeles. Los Angeles's median rent is $1,958/month, while San Diego's is $2,414/month. Source: Census ACS 2024.

Los Angeles has the lower median home price at $947900, saving $32,800 compared to San Diego. Source: Census ACS 2024.