Providence, RI vs Downey, CA: 99 vs 169

$1,333/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 42%

$66,772/yr ↓ 24%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 31%

$322,800 ↓ 56%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 126%

$1,467/mo ↓ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 36%

190,214

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $559/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $6,708/year.

Median household income is $20,628/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Downey — common questions

Is Providence or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Providence and Downey?

Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $559/month.

Which city has higher income, Providence or Downey?

Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $20,628/year higher in Downey.

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 Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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.

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

Providence

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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