Barstow, CA

Very Low · 73

California · Population 25,198 · Updated March 2026

$1,065
Median Rent / Month
$51,811
Median Income
$222,600
Median Home Value
$1,014
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Barstow

24.7%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in California

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

13.3%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
7.25%
Sales Tax
0.71%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$12,780
Annual Rent
$6,891
State Income Tax
$1,580
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Barstow is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 73 (where 100 equals the national median), Barstow residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,065/month while earning a median household income of $51,811/year.

The median home value in Barstow, CA is $222,600, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,014 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 24.7% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

California's top income tax rate of 13.3% is among the highest in the nation, adding to the overall cost burden. Combined with a 7.25% sales tax rate and 0.71% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Barstow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Barstow

What is the cost of living in Barstow, CA?
The cost of living index in Barstow, CA is 73 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,065, median household income is $51,811/year, and the median home value is $222,600.
Is Barstow, CA affordable?
Yes, Barstow is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 73. The rent-to-income ratio is 24.7%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Barstow, CA?
The median gross rent in Barstow, CA is $1,065 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,780.
What is the median household income in Barstow?
The median household income in Barstow, CA is $51,811 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in California?
California has a top income tax rate of 13.3%, a sales tax of 7.25%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.71%.