Fairfield, CA vs Downey, CA: 167 vs 169

$2,191/mo ↑ 16%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↓ 14%

$102,321/yr ↑ 17%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↓ 15%

$592,500 ↓ 19%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 23%

$2,226/mo ↑ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↓ 10%

119,985

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fairfield, CA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 167 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $299/month cheaper in Downey, saving renters about $3,588/year.

Median household income is $14,921/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fairfield is $592,500 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fairfield vs Downey — common questions

Is Fairfield or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fairfield is cheaper to live in with an index of 167 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fairfield and Downey?

Median rent in Fairfield is $2,191/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $299/month.

Which city has higher income, Fairfield or Downey?

Median household income is $102,321 in Fairfield and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $14,921/year higher in Fairfield.

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 Fairfield or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with median rent of $2,191/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: Fairfield, CA vs Downey, CA (2026)

Fairfield

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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