Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
30% cheaper
Naperville is 30% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $52,500 in Naperville.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Naperville has a housing index of 130 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Naperville costs $430,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $370,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Naperville versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Naperville scores 104 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Naperville (101) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Naperville is $118,254 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Naperville.
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