San Diego, CA vs Dayton, OH: 197 vs 50

$2,223/mo ↑ 157%

Median Rent

$866/mo ↓ 61%

$104,321/yr ↑ 140%

Median Income

$43,454/yr ↓ 58%

$848,500 ↑ 810%

Home Value

$93,200 ↓ 89%

$2,308/mo ↑ 177%

Owner Costs

$833/mo ↓ 64%

1,385,061

Population

136,741

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Dayton, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 50 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,357/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $16,284/year.

Median household income is $60,867/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $93,200 in Dayton.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Dayton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Dayton — common questions

Is San Diego or Dayton cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Dayton?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Dayton it's $866/month — a difference of $1,357/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Dayton?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $43,454 in Dayton. Median household income is $60,867/year higher in San Diego.

How do taxes compare between California and Ohio?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to San Diego or Dayton?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/mo, while Dayton has a cost index of 50 with rent of $866/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: San Diego, CA vs Dayton, OH (2026)

San Diego

Dayton

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons