Lakewood, CO vs Downey, CA: 141 vs 169

$1,746/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 8%

$85,789/yr ↓ 2%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 2%

$548,200 ↓ 25%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 33%

$1,729/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 16%

156,309

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lakewood, CO and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 141 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $146/month cheaper in Lakewood, saving renters about $1,752/year.

Median household income is $1,611/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lakewood is $548,200 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Lakewood slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lakewood vs Downey — common questions

Is Lakewood or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lakewood is cheaper to live in with an index of 141 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lakewood and Downey?

Median rent in Lakewood is $1,746/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $146/month.

Which city has higher income, Lakewood or Downey?

Median household income is $85,789 in Lakewood and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $1,611/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Colorado and California?

Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Lakewood or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Lakewood has a cost index of 141 with median rent of $1,746/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: Lakewood, CO vs Downey, CA (2026)

Lakewood

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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