San Diego, CA vs Downey, CA: 197 vs 169

$2,223/mo ↑ 17%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↓ 15%

$104,321/yr ↑ 19%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↓ 16%

$848,500 ↑ 16%

Home Value

$728,500 ↓ 14%

$2,308/mo ↑ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↓ 13%

1,385,061

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $331/month cheaper in Downey, saving renters about $3,972/year.

Median household income is $16,921/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Downey — common questions

Is San Diego or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Downey is cheaper to live in with an index of 169 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Downey?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $331/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Downey?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $16,921/year higher in San Diego.

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 Downey?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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.

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

San Diego

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons