Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
14% cheaper
San Diego is 14% more affordable than New York City. A $75,000 salary in New York City is equivalent to $64,171 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. New York City has a housing index of 302 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in New York City costs $680,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $120,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,200 in New York City versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: New York City scores 109 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in New York City (108) are higher than San Diego (107).
Median household income in New York City is $67,046 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in San Diego.
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