Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
32% cheaper
San Diego is 32% more affordable than Manhattan. A $75,000 salary in Manhattan is equivalent to $51,064 in San Diego.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Manhattan has a housing index of 421 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Manhattan costs $1,150,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $350,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $4,200 in Manhattan versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Manhattan scores 115 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Manhattan (112) are higher than San Diego (107).
Median household income in Manhattan is $93,651 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in San Diego.
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