San Diego, CA vs Costa Mesa, CA: 197 vs 228

$2,223/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$2,395/mo ↑ 8%

$104,321/yr ↓ 5%

Median Income

$110,073/yr ↑ 6%

$848,500 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$1,054,700 ↑ 24%

$2,308/mo ↓ 6%

Owner Costs

$2,462/mo ↑ 7%

1,385,061

Population

110,538

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Costa Mesa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 228 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $172/month cheaper in San Diego, saving renters about $2,064/year.

Median household income is $5,752/year higher in Costa Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $1,054,700 in Costa Mesa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Costa Mesa — common questions

Is San Diego or Costa Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, San Diego is cheaper to live in with an index of 197 compared to 228 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Costa Mesa?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Costa Mesa it's $2,395/month — a difference of $172/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Costa Mesa?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $110,073 in Costa Mesa. Median household income is $5,752/year higher in Costa Mesa.

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 San Diego or Costa Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/mo, while Costa Mesa has a cost index of 228 with rent of $2,395/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: San Diego, CA vs Costa Mesa, CA (2026)

San Diego

Costa Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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