Long Beach, CA vs Carlsbad, CA: 169 vs 253

$1,803/mo ↓ 33%

Median Rent

$2,678/mo ↑ 49%

$83,969/yr ↓ 40%

Median Income

$139,326/yr ↑ 66%

$762,200 ↓ 34%

Home Value

$1,156,900 ↑ 52%

$1,890/mo ↓ 33%

Owner Costs

$2,801/mo ↑ 48%

458,491

Population

114,500

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Carlsbad, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 253 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $875/month cheaper in Long Beach, saving renters about $10,500/year.

Median household income is $55,357/year higher in Carlsbad. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $1,156,900 in Carlsbad.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Carlsbad — common questions

Is Long Beach or Carlsbad cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Long Beach is cheaper to live in with an index of 169 compared to 253 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Carlsbad?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Carlsbad it's $2,678/month — a difference of $875/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Carlsbad?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $139,326 in Carlsbad. Median household income is $55,357/year higher in Carlsbad.

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 Long Beach or Carlsbad?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/mo, while Carlsbad has a cost index of 253 with rent of $2,678/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Long Beach, CA vs Carlsbad, CA (2026)

Long Beach

Carlsbad

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons