Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
42% cheaper
Indianapolis is 42% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $43,125 in Indianapolis.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Indiana salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Indianapolis has a housing index of 80 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Indianapolis costs $220,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $580,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Indianapolis versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Indianapolis scores 98 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Indianapolis (96) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Indianapolis is $49,968 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Indianapolis.
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