Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
37% cheaper
Las Vegas is 37% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $47,344 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 San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Las Vegas costs $350,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $450,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Las Vegas versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Las Vegas scores 101 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Las Vegas (96) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Las Vegas is $56,415 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Las Vegas.
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