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

Richmond

California
161
VS

Downey

California
169

Richmond is 5% cheaper than Downey.

$1,895/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,892/mo ≈ Same
$90,038/yr ↑ 3%
Median Income
$87,400/yr ↓ 3%
$650,100 ↓ 11%
Home Value
$728,500 ↑ 12%
$2,015/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,997/mo ≈ Same
115,396
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

25.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Richmond, CA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 161 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $2,638/year higher in Richmond. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Richmond is $650,100 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Richmond vs Downey — common questions

Is Richmond or Downey cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Richmond is cheaper to live in with an index of 161 compared to 169 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Richmond and Downey?
Median rent in Richmond is $1,895/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $3/month.
Which city has higher income, Richmond or Downey?
Median household income is $90,038 in Richmond and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $2,638/year higher in Richmond.
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 Richmond or Downey?
It depends on your priorities. Richmond has a cost index of 161 with median rent of $1,895/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 Richmond details → View Downey details →

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