Long Beach, CA vs Pasadena, CA: 169 vs 220

$1,803/mo ↓ 19%

Median Rent

$2,218/mo ↑ 23%

$83,969/yr ↓ 19%

Median Income

$103,778/yr ↑ 24%

$762,200 ↓ 27%

Home Value

$1,045,000 ↑ 37%

$1,890/mo ↓ 19%

Owner Costs

$2,340/mo ↑ 24%

458,491

Population

136,462

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Pasadena, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 220 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $415/month cheaper in Long Beach, saving renters about $4,980/year.

Median household income is $19,809/year higher in Pasadena. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $1,045,000 in Pasadena.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Pasadena — common questions

Is Long Beach or Pasadena cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Long Beach is cheaper to live in with an index of 169 compared to 220 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Pasadena?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Pasadena it's $2,218/month — a difference of $415/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Pasadena?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $103,778 in Pasadena. Median household income is $19,809/year higher in Pasadena.

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 Pasadena?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/mo, while Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with rent of $2,218/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Long Beach

Pasadena

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons