Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
24% cheaper
Newark is 24% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $56,719 in Newark.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Newark has a housing index of 149 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Newark costs $340,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $460,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Newark versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Newark scores 103 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Newark (105) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Newark is $40,014 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Newark.
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