Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
42% cheaper
Fort Worth is 42% more affordable than Oakland. A $75,000 salary in Oakland is equivalent to $43,182 in Fort Worth.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Fort Worth has a housing index of 87 while Oakland sits at 264 (national average = 100). The median home in Fort Worth costs $270,000 compared to $780,000 in Oakland, a difference of $510,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Fort Worth versus $2,700 in Oakland.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Fort Worth scores 96 while Oakland scores 109.
Healthcare costs in Fort Worth (100) are lower than Oakland (113).
Median household income in Fort Worth is $62,187 compared to $73,692 in Oakland. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Fort Worth.
Amazon affiliate links