Providence, RI vs Carlsbad, CA: 99 vs 253

$1,333/mo ↓ 50%

Median Rent

$2,678/mo ↑ 101%

$66,772/yr ↓ 52%

Median Income

$139,326/yr ↑ 109%

$322,800 ↓ 72%

Home Value

$1,156,900 ↑ 258%

$1,467/mo ↓ 48%

Owner Costs

$2,801/mo ↑ 91%

190,214

Population

114,500

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Carlsbad, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 253 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,345/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $16,140/year.

Median household income is $72,554/year higher in Carlsbad. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $1,156,900 in Carlsbad.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Carlsbad — common questions

Is Providence or Carlsbad cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 253 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Providence and Carlsbad?

Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Carlsbad it's $2,678/month — a difference of $1,345/month.

Which city has higher income, Providence or Carlsbad?

Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $139,326 in Carlsbad. Median household income is $72,554/year higher in Carlsbad.

How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and California?

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

Should I move to Providence or Carlsbad?

It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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: Providence, RI vs Carlsbad, CA (2026)

Providence

Carlsbad

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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