Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
26% cheaper
Greenville is 26% more affordable than Riverside. A $75,000 salary in Riverside is equivalent to $55,664 in Greenville.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: South Carolina salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Greenville has a housing index of 85 while Riverside sits at 155 (national average = 100). The median home in Greenville costs $250,000 compared to $500,000 in Riverside, a difference of $250,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Greenville versus $1,800 in Riverside.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Greenville scores 98 while Riverside scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Greenville (103) are higher than Riverside (102). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Greenville is $48,912 compared to $67,068 in Riverside. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Greenville.
Amazon affiliate links