Oakland, CA vs Providence, RI: 195 vs 99

$1,917/mo ↑ 44%

Median Rent

$1,333/mo ↓ 30%

$97,369/yr ↑ 46%

Median Income

$66,772/yr ↓ 31%

$924,700 ↑ 186%

Home Value

$322,800 ↓ 65%

$2,164/mo ↑ 48%

Owner Costs

$1,467/mo ↓ 32%

438,072

Population

190,214

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Oakland, CA and Providence, RI, the overall cost of living indices are 195 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $584/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $7,008/year.

Median household income is $30,597/year higher in Oakland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Oakland is $924,700 compared to $322,800 in Providence.

Rhode Island has a lower income tax rate, making Providence slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Oakland vs Providence — common questions

Is Oakland or Providence cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 195 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Oakland and Providence?

Median rent in Oakland is $1,917/month and in Providence it's $1,333/month — a difference of $584/month.

Which city has higher income, Oakland or Providence?

Median household income is $97,369 in Oakland and $66,772 in Providence. Median household income is $30,597/year higher in Oakland.

How do taxes compare between California and Rhode Island?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to Oakland or Providence?

It depends on your priorities. Oakland has a cost index of 195 with median rent of $1,917/mo, while Providence has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,333/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Oakland, CA vs Providence, RI (2026)

Oakland

Providence

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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