Pasadena, CA vs Carlsbad, CA: 220 vs 253

$2,218/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$2,678/mo ↑ 21%

$103,778/yr ↓ 26%

Median Income

$139,326/yr ↑ 34%

$1,045,000 ↓ 10%

Home Value

$1,156,900 ↑ 11%

$2,340/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$2,801/mo ↑ 20%

136,462

Population

114,500

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pasadena, CA and Carlsbad, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 220 and 253 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $460/month cheaper in Pasadena, saving renters about $5,520/year.

Median household income is $35,548/year higher in Carlsbad. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pasadena is $1,045,000 compared to $1,156,900 in Carlsbad.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pasadena vs Carlsbad — common questions

Is Pasadena or Carlsbad cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Pasadena is cheaper to live in with an index of 220 compared to 253 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Pasadena and Carlsbad?

Median rent in Pasadena is $2,218/month and in Carlsbad it's $2,678/month — a difference of $460/month.

Which city has higher income, Pasadena or Carlsbad?

Median household income is $103,778 in Pasadena and $139,326 in Carlsbad. Median household income is $35,548/year higher in Carlsbad.

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 Pasadena or Carlsbad?

It depends on your priorities. Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with median rent of $2,218/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: Pasadena, CA vs Carlsbad, CA (2026)

Pasadena

Carlsbad

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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