Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
30% cheaper
Hartford is 30% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $52,500 in Hartford.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Connecticut salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Hartford has a housing index of 121 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Hartford costs $215,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $585,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Hartford versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Hartford scores 106 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Hartford (114) are higher than San Diego (107).
Median household income in Hartford is $40,068 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Hartford.
Amazon affiliate links