New Haven, CT vs Carlsbad, CA: 95 vs 253

$1,442/mo ↓ 46%

Median Rent

$2,678/mo ↑ 86%

$53,771/yr ↓ 61%

Median Income

$139,326/yr ↑ 159%

$249,000 ↓ 78%

Home Value

$1,156,900 ↑ 365%

$1,520/mo ↓ 46%

Owner Costs

$2,801/mo ↑ 84%

132,893

Population

114,500

Detailed Comparison

When comparing New Haven, CT and Carlsbad, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 95 and 253 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,236/month cheaper in New Haven, saving renters about $14,832/year.

Median household income is $85,555/year higher in Carlsbad. Home values also differ significantly — the median in New Haven is $249,000 compared to $1,156,900 in Carlsbad.

Connecticut has a lower income tax rate, making New Haven slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

New Haven vs Carlsbad — common questions

Is New Haven or Carlsbad cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, New Haven is cheaper to live in with an index of 95 compared to 253 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between New Haven and Carlsbad?

Median rent in New Haven is $1,442/month and in Carlsbad it's $2,678/month — a difference of $1,236/month.

Which city has higher income, New Haven or Carlsbad?

Median household income is $53,771 in New Haven and $139,326 in Carlsbad. Median household income is $85,555/year higher in Carlsbad.

How do taxes compare between Connecticut and California?

Connecticut has 6.99% income tax, 6.35% sales tax, and 2.15% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to New Haven or Carlsbad?

It depends on your priorities. New Haven has a cost index of 95 with median rent of $1,442/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: New Haven, CT vs Carlsbad, CA (2026)

New Haven

Carlsbad

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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