Arvada, CO vs Downey, CA: 152 vs 169

$1,802/mo ↓ 5%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 5%

$113,396/yr ↑ 30%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↓ 23%

$600,800 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 21%

$1,948/mo ↓ 2%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 3%

122,835

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arvada, CO and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 152 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $90/month cheaper in Arvada, saving renters about $1,080/year.

Median household income is $25,996/year higher in Arvada. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arvada is $600,800 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Arvada slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arvada vs Downey — common questions

Is Arvada or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Arvada is cheaper to live in with an index of 152 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Arvada and Downey?

Median rent in Arvada is $1,802/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $90/month.

Which city has higher income, Arvada or Downey?

Median household income is $113,396 in Arvada and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $25,996/year higher in Arvada.

How do taxes compare between Colorado and California?

Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Arvada or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Arvada has a cost index of 152 with median rent of $1,802/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Arvada, CO vs Downey, CA (2026)

Arvada

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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