Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
48% cheaper
Little Rock is 48% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $39,375 in Little Rock.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Arkansas salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Little Rock has a housing index of 62 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Little Rock costs $170,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $630,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $950 in Little Rock versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Little Rock scores 94 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Little Rock (90) are lower than San Diego (107).
Median household income in Little Rock is $47,638 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Little Rock.
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