Providence, RI vs Fairfield, CA: 99 vs 167

$1,333/mo ↓ 39%

Median Rent

$2,191/mo ↑ 64%

$66,772/yr ↓ 35%

Median Income

$102,321/yr ↑ 53%

$322,800 ↓ 46%

Home Value

$592,500 ↑ 84%

$1,467/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$2,226/mo ↑ 52%

190,214

Population

119,985

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Fairfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 167 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $858/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $10,296/year.

Median household income is $35,549/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $592,500 in Fairfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Fairfield — common questions

Is Providence or Fairfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 167 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Providence and Fairfield?

Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Fairfield it's $2,191/month — a difference of $858/month.

Which city has higher income, Providence or Fairfield?

Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $102,321 in Fairfield. Median household income is $35,549/year higher in Fairfield.

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 Fairfield?

It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/mo, while Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with rent of $2,191/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Providence

Fairfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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