Cost of Living: Oakland, CA vs Downey, CA (2026)

Oakland

California
195
VS

Downey

California
169

Oakland is 15% more expensive than Downey.

$1,917/mo ↑ 1%
Median Rent
$1,892/mo ↓ 1%
$97,369/yr ↑ 11%
Median Income
$87,400/yr ↓ 10%
$924,700 ↑ 27%
Home Value
$728,500 ↓ 21%
$2,164/mo ↑ 8%
Owner Costs
$1,997/mo ↓ 8%
438,072
Population
111,793

Tax Comparison

13.3%
Income Tax
13.3%
7.25%
State Sales Tax
7.25%
0.71%
Property Tax
0.71%

Affordability

23.6%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Oakland, CA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 195 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $9,969/year higher in Oakland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Oakland is $924,700 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Oakland vs Downey — common questions

Is Oakland or Downey cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Downey is cheaper to live in with an index of 169 compared to 195 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Oakland and Downey?
Median rent in Oakland is $1,917/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $25/month.
Which city has higher income, Oakland or Downey?
Median household income is $97,369 in Oakland and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $9,969/year higher in Oakland.
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 Oakland or Downey?
It depends on your priorities. Oakland has a cost index of 195 with median rent of $1,917/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Oakland details → View Downey details →

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