Long Beach, CA vs Fairfield, CA: 169 vs 167

$1,803/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$2,191/mo ↑ 22%

$83,969/yr ↓ 18%

Median Income

$102,321/yr ↑ 22%

$762,200 ↑ 29%

Home Value

$592,500 ↓ 22%

$1,890/mo ↓ 15%

Owner Costs

$2,226/mo ↑ 18%

458,491

Population

119,985

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Fairfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 167 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $388/month cheaper in Long Beach, saving renters about $4,656/year.

Median household income is $18,352/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $592,500 in Fairfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Fairfield — common questions

Is Long Beach or Fairfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fairfield is cheaper to live in with an index of 167 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Fairfield?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Fairfield it's $2,191/month — a difference of $388/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Fairfield?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $102,321 in Fairfield. Median household income is $18,352/year higher in Fairfield.

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 Fairfield?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/mo, while Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with rent of $2,191/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Long Beach

Fairfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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