Fresno, CA vs Ventura, CA: 101 vs 183

$1,324/mo ↓ 37%

Median Rent

$2,101/mo ↑ 59%

$66,804/yr ↓ 33%

Median Income

$100,407/yr ↑ 50%

$348,500 ↓ 55%

Home Value

$778,700 ↑ 123%

$1,391/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$2,118/mo ↑ 52%

543,615

Population

109,900

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Ventura, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 183 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $777/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $9,324/year.

Median household income is $33,603/year higher in Ventura. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $778,700 in Ventura.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Ventura — common questions

Is Fresno or Ventura cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fresno is cheaper to live in with an index of 101 compared to 183 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fresno and Ventura?

Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Ventura it's $2,101/month — a difference of $777/month.

Which city has higher income, Fresno or Ventura?

Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $100,407 in Ventura. Median household income is $33,603/year higher in Ventura.

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 Ventura?

It depends on your priorities. Fresno has a cost index of 101 with median rent of $1,324/mo, while Ventura has a cost index of 183 with rent of $2,101/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Fresno, CA vs Ventura, CA (2026)

Fresno

Ventura

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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