Fresno, CA vs Costa Mesa, CA: 101 vs 228

$1,324/mo ↓ 45%

Median Rent

$2,395/mo ↑ 81%

$66,804/yr ↓ 39%

Median Income

$110,073/yr ↑ 65%

$348,500 ↓ 67%

Home Value

$1,054,700 ↑ 203%

$1,391/mo ↓ 44%

Owner Costs

$2,462/mo ↑ 77%

543,615

Population

110,538

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Costa Mesa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 228 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,071/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $12,852/year.

Median household income is $43,269/year higher in Costa Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $1,054,700 in Costa Mesa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Costa Mesa — common questions

Is Fresno or Costa Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fresno is cheaper to live in with an index of 101 compared to 228 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fresno and Costa Mesa?

Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Costa Mesa it's $2,395/month — a difference of $1,071/month.

Which city has higher income, Fresno or Costa Mesa?

Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $110,073 in Costa Mesa. Median household income is $43,269/year higher in Costa Mesa.

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 Fresno or Costa Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. Fresno has a cost index of 101 with median rent of $1,324/mo, while Costa Mesa has a cost index of 228 with rent of $2,395/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Fresno, CA vs Costa Mesa, CA (2026)

Fresno

Costa Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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