San Diego, CA vs Newark, NJ: 197 vs 100

$2,223/mo ↑ 67%

Median Rent

$1,330/mo ↓ 40%

$104,321/yr ↑ 115%

Median Income

$48,416/yr ↓ 54%

$848,500 ↑ 151%

Home Value

$337,800 ↓ 60%

$2,308/mo ↑ 63%

Owner Costs

$1,419/mo ↓ 39%

1,385,061

Population

307,188

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Newark, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $893/month cheaper in Newark, saving renters about $10,716/year.

Median household income is $55,905/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $337,800 in Newark.

New Jersey has a lower income tax rate, making Newark slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Newark — common questions

Is San Diego or Newark cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Newark?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Newark it's $1,330/month — a difference of $893/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Newark?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $48,416 in Newark. Median household income is $55,905/year higher in San Diego.

How do taxes compare between California and New Jersey?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.

Should I move to San Diego or Newark?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/mo, while Newark has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,330/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

San Diego

Newark

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons