Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
34% cheaper
Burlington is 34% more affordable than Irvine. A $75,000 salary in Irvine is equivalent to $49,719 in Burlington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Vermont salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Burlington has a housing index of 139 while Irvine sits at 294 (national average = 100). The median home in Burlington costs $380,000 compared to $1,050,000 in Irvine, a difference of $670,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Burlington versus $3,000 in Irvine.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Burlington scores 108 while Irvine scores 108.
Healthcare costs in Burlington (116) are higher than Irvine (109).
Median household income in Burlington is $51,098 compared to $108,038 in Irvine. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Burlington.
Amazon affiliate links