Providence, RI vs Pasadena, CA: 99 vs 220

$1,333/mo ↓ 40%

Median Rent

$2,218/mo ↑ 66%

$66,772/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$103,778/yr ↑ 55%

$322,800 ↓ 69%

Home Value

$1,045,000 ↑ 224%

$1,467/mo ↓ 37%

Owner Costs

$2,340/mo ↑ 60%

190,214

Population

136,462

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Pasadena, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 220 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $885/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $10,620/year.

Median household income is $37,006/year higher in Pasadena. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $1,045,000 in Pasadena.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Pasadena — common questions

Is Providence or Pasadena cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 220 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Providence and Pasadena?

Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Pasadena it's $2,218/month — a difference of $885/month.

Which city has higher income, Providence or Pasadena?

Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $103,778 in Pasadena. Median household income is $37,006/year higher in Pasadena.

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 Pasadena?

It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/mo, while Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with rent of $2,218/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Providence

Pasadena

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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