Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
43% cheaper
Grand Rapids is 43% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $42,656 in Grand Rapids.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Michigan salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Grand Rapids has a housing index of 78 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Grand Rapids costs $240,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $560,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Grand Rapids versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Grand Rapids scores 96 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Grand Rapids (98) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Grand Rapids is $49,982 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Grand Rapids.
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