Irvine, CA vs New Haven, CT: 256 vs 95

$2,893/mo ↑ 101%

Median Rent

$1,442/mo ↓ 50%

$129,647/yr ↑ 141%

Median Income

$53,771/yr ↓ 59%

$1,115,400 ↑ 348%

Home Value

$249,000 ↓ 78%

$2,904/mo ↑ 91%

Owner Costs

$1,520/mo ↓ 48%

308,160

Population

132,893

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Irvine, CA and New Haven, CT, the overall cost of living indices are 256 and 95 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,451/month cheaper in New Haven, saving renters about $17,412/year.

Median household income is $75,876/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Irvine is $1,115,400 compared to $249,000 in New Haven.

Connecticut has a lower income tax rate, making New Haven slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Irvine vs New Haven — common questions

Is Irvine or New Haven cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, New Haven is cheaper to live in with an index of 95 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Irvine and New Haven?

Median rent in Irvine is $2,893/month and in New Haven it's $1,442/month — a difference of $1,451/month.

Which city has higher income, Irvine or New Haven?

Median household income is $129,647 in Irvine and $53,771 in New Haven. Median household income is $75,876/year higher in Irvine.

How do taxes compare between California and Connecticut?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Connecticut has 6.99% income tax, 6.35% sales tax, and 2.15% property tax.

Should I move to Irvine or New Haven?

It depends on your priorities. Irvine has a cost index of 256 with median rent of $2,893/mo, while New Haven has a cost index of 95 with rent of $1,442/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Irvine, CA vs New Haven, CT (2026)

Irvine

New Haven

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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