Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
20% cheaper
Louisville is 20% more affordable than Stockton. A $75,000 salary in Stockton is equivalent to $59,868 in Louisville.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Kentucky salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Louisville has a housing index of 77 while Stockton sits at 126 (national average = 100). The median home in Louisville costs $210,000 compared to $400,000 in Stockton, a difference of $190,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Louisville versus $1,500 in Stockton.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Louisville scores 96 while Stockton scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Louisville (93) are lower than Stockton (101). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Louisville is $52,238 compared to $54,658 in Stockton. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Louisville.
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