Brownsville, TX vs Downey, CA: 54 vs 169

$906/mo ↓ 52%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 109%

$48,675/yr ↓ 44%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 80%

$122,400 ↓ 83%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 495%

$830/mo ↓ 58%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 141%

188,023

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Brownsville, TX and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 54 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $986/month cheaper in Brownsville, saving renters about $11,832/year.

Median household income is $38,725/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Brownsville is $122,400 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Brownsville residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brownsville vs Downey — common questions

Is Brownsville or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Brownsville is cheaper to live in with an index of 54 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Brownsville and Downey?

Median rent in Brownsville is $906/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $986/month.

Which city has higher income, Brownsville or Downey?

Median household income is $48,675 in Brownsville and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $38,725/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Brownsville or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Brownsville has a cost index of 54 with median rent of $906/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: Brownsville, TX vs Downey, CA (2026)

Brownsville

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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