San Jose, CA vs San Diego, CA: Cost of Living
Compare the cost of living between San Jose, CA and San Diego, CA. See the equivalent salary and median rent powered by BLS Regional Price Parities.
San Jose, CA
CA
- Overall RPP (US=100)
- 115.3
- Housing RPP
- 233.3
- Goods RPP
- 108.9
- 2-BR median rent
- $3,132/mo
California income tax 1%-13.3%. No city income tax.
San Diego, CA
CA
- Overall RPP (US=100)
- 114.5
- Housing RPP
- 183.9
- Goods RPP
- 108.2
- 2-BR median rent
- $2,833/mo
California income tax 1%-13.3%. No city income tax.
Equivalent salary
San Diego, CA is cheaper than San Jose, CA by about 0.7% (RPP 115.3 to 114.5).
$60,000 in San Jose, CA
-> $59,584
in San Diego, CA
$100,000 in San Jose, CA
-> $99,306
in San Diego, CA
$150,000 in San Jose, CA
-> $148,959
in San Diego, CA
This tool provides estimates only. Equivalent-salary figures are derived from BLS Regional Price Parities (RPP) and HUD Fair Market Rents — they are averages, not guarantees. Actual cost of living varies by neighborhood, lifestyle, and individual circumstances. Not financial advice.
Frequently asked questions
- Is San Diego, CA cheaper or more expensive than San Jose, CA?
- San Diego, CA (RPP 114.5) is cheaper than San Jose, CA (RPP 115.3) by about 0.7%.
- What salary do I need in San Diego, CA if I earn $100,000 in San Jose, CA?
- You would need approximately $99,306 in San Diego, CA to maintain the same purchasing power as $100,000 in San Jose, CA. Formula: $100,000 x (114.5 / 115.3).