Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
27% cheaper
Portland is 27% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $54,844 in Portland.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Maine salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Portland has a housing index of 137 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Portland costs $395,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $405,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Portland versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Portland scores 107 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Portland (110) are higher than San Diego (107).
Median household income in Portland is $56,895 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Portland.
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