Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
8% cheaper
Burlington is 8% more affordable than Riverside. A $75,000 salary in Riverside is equivalent to $69,141 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 Riverside sits at 155 (national average = 100). The median home in Burlington costs $380,000 compared to $500,000 in Riverside, a difference of $120,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Burlington versus $1,800 in Riverside.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Burlington scores 108 while Riverside scores 103.
Healthcare costs in Burlington (116) are higher than Riverside (102).
Median household income in Burlington is $51,098 compared to $67,068 in Riverside. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Burlington.
Amazon affiliate links