Fresno, CA vs Downey, CA: 101 vs 169

$1,324/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 43%

$66,804/yr ↓ 24%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 31%

$348,500 ↓ 52%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 109%

$1,391/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 44%

543,615

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $568/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $6,816/year.

Median household income is $20,596/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Downey — common questions

Is Fresno or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fresno is cheaper to live in with an index of 101 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fresno and Downey?

Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $568/month.

Which city has higher income, Fresno or Downey?

Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $20,596/year higher in Downey.

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 Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Fresno has a cost index of 101 with median rent of $1,324/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: Fresno, CA vs Downey, CA (2026)

Fresno

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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