Charlotte, NC vs Pasadena, CA: 108 vs 220

$1,504/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$2,218/mo ↑ 47%

$78,438/yr ↓ 24%

Median Income

$103,778/yr ↑ 32%

$351,500 ↓ 66%

Home Value

$1,045,000 ↑ 197%

$1,487/mo ↓ 36%

Owner Costs

$2,340/mo ↑ 57%

886,283

Population

136,462

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Charlotte, NC and Pasadena, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 108 and 220 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $714/month cheaper in Charlotte, saving renters about $8,568/year.

Median household income is $25,340/year higher in Pasadena. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Charlotte is $351,500 compared to $1,045,000 in Pasadena.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Charlotte slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Charlotte vs Pasadena — common questions

Is Charlotte or Pasadena cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Charlotte is cheaper to live in with an index of 108 compared to 220 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Charlotte and Pasadena?

Median rent in Charlotte is $1,504/month and in Pasadena it's $2,218/month — a difference of $714/month.

Which city has higher income, Charlotte or Pasadena?

Median household income is $78,438 in Charlotte and $103,778 in Pasadena. Median household income is $25,340/year higher in Pasadena.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and California?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Charlotte or Pasadena?

It depends on your priorities. Charlotte has a cost index of 108 with median rent of $1,504/mo, while Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with rent of $2,218/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Charlotte, NC vs Pasadena, CA (2026)

Charlotte

Pasadena

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons