Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
26% cheaper
Burlington is 26% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $55,312 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 San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Burlington costs $380,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $420,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Burlington versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Burlington scores 108 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Burlington (116) are higher than San Diego (107).
Median household income in Burlington is $51,098 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Burlington.
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