Cost of Living in San Diego, CA
San Diego's cost of living index is 160 — 60% more expensive than the national average. California has a state income tax and a statewide COL index of 142.
COL Index
160
100 = national avg
Monthly Budget
$8,000
vs $5,000 national
Population
1.4M
Metro area
State Tax
Yes
California
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Estimated monthly costs in San Diego vs national average for a typical household.
| Category | National Avg | San Diego | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,650 | $3,135 | +$1,485 |
| Groceries | $650 | $962 | +$312 |
| Transportation | $800 | $1,232 | +$432 |
| Healthcare | $400 | $568 | +$168 |
| Utilities | $300 | $480 | +$180 |
| Other | $1,200 | $1,776 | +$576 |
| Total | $5,000 | $8,000 | +$3,000 |
Salary Equivalent
To maintain the same standard of living in San Diego, a national-average salary translates to:
$50,000 nationally
$80,000
$75,000 nationally
$120,000
$100,000 nationally
$160,000
$150,000 nationally
$240,000