Irvine, CA vs Downey, CA: 256 vs 169

$2,893/mo ↑ 53%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↓ 35%

$129,647/yr ↑ 48%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↓ 33%

$1,115,400 ↑ 53%

Home Value

$728,500 ↓ 35%

$2,904/mo ↑ 45%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↓ 31%

308,160

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Irvine, CA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 256 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,001/month cheaper in Downey, saving renters about $12,012/year.

Median household income is $42,247/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Irvine is $1,115,400 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Irvine vs Downey — common questions

Is Irvine or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Downey is cheaper to live in with an index of 169 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Irvine and Downey?

Median rent in Irvine is $2,893/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $1,001/month.

Which city has higher income, Irvine or Downey?

Median household income is $129,647 in Irvine and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $42,247/year higher in Irvine.

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 Irvine or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Irvine has a cost index of 256 with median rent of $2,893/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: Irvine, CA vs Downey, CA (2026)

Irvine

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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