Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
38% cheaper
Orlando is 38% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $46,875 in Orlando.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Florida salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Orlando has a housing index of 104 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Orlando costs $320,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $480,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,650 in Orlando versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Orlando scores 103 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Orlando (96) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Orlando is $48,080 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Orlando.
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