Downey, CA vs Murrieta, CA: 169 vs 175

$1,892/mo ↓ 19%

Median Rent

$2,330/mo ↑ 23%

$87,400/yr ↓ 20%

Median Income

$109,780/yr ↑ 26%

$728,500 ↑ 20%

Home Value

$606,900 ↓ 17%

$1,997/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$2,380/mo ↑ 19%

111,793

Population

111,621

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Downey, CA and Murrieta, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 175 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $438/month cheaper in Downey, saving renters about $5,256/year.

Median household income is $22,380/year higher in Murrieta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Downey is $728,500 compared to $606,900 in Murrieta.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Downey vs Murrieta — common questions

Is Downey or Murrieta cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Downey is cheaper to live in with an index of 169 compared to 175 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Downey and Murrieta?

Median rent in Downey is $1,892/month and in Murrieta it's $2,330/month — a difference of $438/month.

Which city has higher income, Downey or Murrieta?

Median household income is $87,400 in Downey and $109,780 in Murrieta. Median household income is $22,380/year higher in Murrieta.

How do taxes compare between California and California?

Both cities are in California and share the same state tax rates: 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Downey or Murrieta?

It depends on your priorities. Downey has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,892/mo, while Murrieta has a cost index of 175 with rent of $2,330/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Downey, CA vs Murrieta, CA (2026)

Downey

Murrieta

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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