Fullerton, CA vs Costa Mesa, CA: 195 vs 228

$2,124/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$2,395/mo ↑ 13%

$104,219/yr ↓ 5%

Median Income

$110,073/yr ↑ 6%

$859,600 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$1,054,700 ↑ 23%

$2,251/mo ↓ 9%

Owner Costs

$2,462/mo ↑ 9%

141,278

Population

110,538

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fullerton, CA and Costa Mesa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 195 and 228 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $271/month cheaper in Fullerton, saving renters about $3,252/year.

Median household income is $5,854/year higher in Costa Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fullerton is $859,600 compared to $1,054,700 in Costa Mesa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fullerton vs Costa Mesa — common questions

Is Fullerton or Costa Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fullerton is cheaper to live in with an index of 195 compared to 228 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fullerton and Costa Mesa?

Median rent in Fullerton is $2,124/month and in Costa Mesa it's $2,395/month — a difference of $271/month.

Which city has higher income, Fullerton or Costa Mesa?

Median household income is $104,219 in Fullerton and $110,073 in Costa Mesa. Median household income is $5,854/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 Fullerton or Costa Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. Fullerton has a cost index of 195 with median rent of $2,124/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: Fullerton, CA vs Costa Mesa, CA (2026)

Fullerton

Costa Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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