Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
39% cheaper
Las Vegas is 39% more affordable than Oakland. A $75,000 salary in Oakland is equivalent to $45,909 in Las Vegas.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Nevada salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Las Vegas has a housing index of 106 while Oakland sits at 264 (national average = 100). The median home in Las Vegas costs $350,000 compared to $780,000 in Oakland, a difference of $430,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Las Vegas versus $2,700 in Oakland.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Las Vegas scores 101 while Oakland scores 109.
Healthcare costs in Las Vegas (96) are lower than Oakland (113).
Median household income in Las Vegas is $56,415 compared to $73,692 in Oakland. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Las Vegas.
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