Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
38% cheaper
Charlotte is 38% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $46,875 in Charlotte.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: North Carolina salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charlotte has a housing index of 99 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Charlotte costs $330,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $470,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Charlotte versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Charlotte scores 101 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Charlotte (105) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Charlotte is $62,308 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Charlotte.
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