Long Beach, CA vs Costa Mesa, CA: 169 vs 228

$1,803/mo ↓ 25%

Median Rent

$2,395/mo ↑ 33%

$83,969/yr ↓ 24%

Median Income

$110,073/yr ↑ 31%

$762,200 ↓ 28%

Home Value

$1,054,700 ↑ 38%

$1,890/mo ↓ 23%

Owner Costs

$2,462/mo ↑ 30%

458,491

Population

110,538

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Costa Mesa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 228 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $592/month cheaper in Long Beach, saving renters about $7,104/year.

Median household income is $26,104/year higher in Costa Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $1,054,700 in Costa Mesa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Costa Mesa — common questions

Is Long Beach or Costa Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Long Beach is cheaper to live in with an index of 169 compared to 228 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Costa Mesa?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Costa Mesa it's $2,395/month — a difference of $592/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Costa Mesa?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $110,073 in Costa Mesa. Median household income is $26,104/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 Long Beach or Costa Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/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: Long Beach, CA vs Costa Mesa, CA (2026)

Long Beach

Costa Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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