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

Pomona

California
143
VS

Downey

California
169

Pomona is 15% cheaper than Downey.

$1,738/mo ↓ 8%
Median Rent
$1,892/mo ↑ 9%
$78,869/yr ↓ 10%
Median Income
$87,400/yr ↑ 11%
$569,600 ↓ 22%
Home Value
$728,500 ↑ 28%
$1,758/mo ↓ 12%
Owner Costs
$1,997/mo ↑ 14%
148,391
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

26.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pomona, CA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 143 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $154/month cheaper in Pomona, saving renters about $1,848/year.

Median household income is $8,531/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pomona is $569,600 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pomona vs Downey — common questions

Is Pomona or Downey cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Pomona is cheaper to live in with an index of 143 compared to 169 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Pomona and Downey?
Median rent in Pomona is $1,738/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $154/month.
Which city has higher income, Pomona or Downey?
Median household income is $78,869 in Pomona and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $8,531/year higher in Downey.
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 Pomona or Downey?
It depends on your priorities. Pomona has a cost index of 143 with median rent of $1,738/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 Pomona details → View Downey details →

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