Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
25% cheaper
Stockton is 25% more affordable than Seattle. A $75,000 salary in Seattle is equivalent to $56,250 in Stockton.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Washington salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Seattle has a housing index of 224 while Stockton sits at 126 (national average = 100). The median home in Seattle costs $750,000 compared to $400,000 in Stockton, a difference of $350,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,300 in Seattle versus $1,500 in Stockton.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Seattle scores 109 while Stockton scores 101.
Healthcare costs in Seattle (109) are higher than Stockton (101).
Median household income in Seattle is $97,185 compared to $54,658 in Stockton. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Stockton.
Amazon affiliate links