Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
31% cheaper
Providence is 31% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $51,562 in Providence.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Rhode Island salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Providence has a housing index of 118 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Providence costs $310,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $490,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Providence versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Providence scores 105 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Providence (112) are higher than San Diego (107).
Median household income in Providence is $47,012 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Providence.
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