Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
36% cheaper
Richmond is 36% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $48,281 in Richmond.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Virginia salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Richmond has a housing index of 108 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Richmond costs $300,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $500,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Richmond versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Richmond scores 100 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Richmond (100) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Richmond is $50,120 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Richmond.
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