San Diego, CA vs Long Beach, CA: 197 vs 169

$2,223/mo ↑ 23%

Median Rent

$1,803/mo ↓ 19%

$104,321/yr ↑ 24%

Median Income

$83,969/yr ↓ 20%

$848,500 ↑ 11%

Home Value

$762,200 ↓ 10%

$2,308/mo ↑ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,890/mo ↓ 18%

1,385,061

Population

458,491

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Long Beach, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $420/month cheaper in Long Beach, saving renters about $5,040/year.

Median household income is $20,352/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $762,200 in Long Beach.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Long Beach — common questions

Is San Diego or Long Beach cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Long Beach 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 Long Beach?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Long Beach it's $1,803/month — a difference of $420/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Long Beach?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $83,969 in Long Beach. Median household income is $20,352/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 Long Beach?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/mo, while Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,803/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

San Diego

Long Beach

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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