San Diego, CA vs Plano, TX: 197 vs 132

$2,223/mo ↑ 24%

Median Rent

$1,792/mo ↓ 19%

$104,321/yr ↓ 4%

Median Income

$108,649/yr ↑ 4%

$848,500 ↑ 93%

Home Value

$440,600 ↓ 48%

$2,308/mo ↑ 26%

Owner Costs

$1,829/mo ↓ 21%

1,385,061

Population

287,339

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Plano, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 132 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $431/month cheaper in Plano, saving renters about $5,172/year.

Median household income is $4,328/year higher in Plano. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $440,600 in Plano.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Plano residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Plano — common questions

Is San Diego or Plano cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Plano is cheaper to live in with an index of 132 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Plano?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Plano it's $1,792/month — a difference of $431/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Plano?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $108,649 in Plano. Median household income is $4,328/year higher in Plano.

How do taxes compare between California and Texas?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to San Diego or Plano?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/mo, while Plano has a cost index of 132 with rent of $1,792/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

San Diego

Plano

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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