Fresno, CA vs Dayton, OH: 101 vs 50

$1,324/mo ↑ 53%

Median Rent

$866/mo ↓ 35%

$66,804/yr ↑ 54%

Median Income

$43,454/yr ↓ 35%

$348,500 ↑ 274%

Home Value

$93,200 ↓ 73%

$1,391/mo ↑ 67%

Owner Costs

$833/mo ↓ 40%

543,615

Population

136,741

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Dayton, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 50 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $458/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $5,496/year.

Median household income is $23,350/year higher in Fresno. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $93,200 in Dayton.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Dayton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Dayton — common questions

Is Fresno or Dayton cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 101 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fresno and Dayton?

Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Dayton it's $866/month — a difference of $458/month.

Which city has higher income, Fresno or Dayton?

Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $43,454 in Dayton. Median household income is $23,350/year higher in Fresno.

How do taxes compare between California and Ohio?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to Fresno or Dayton?

It depends on your priorities. Fresno has a cost index of 101 with median rent of $1,324/mo, while Dayton has a cost index of 50 with rent of $866/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Fresno, CA vs Dayton, OH (2026)

Fresno

Dayton

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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