San Francisco, CA vs Downey, CA: 267 vs 169

$2,419/mo ↑ 28%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↓ 22%

$141,446/yr ↑ 62%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↓ 38%

$1,380,500 ↑ 89%

Home Value

$728,500 ↓ 47%

$2,620/mo ↑ 31%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↓ 24%

836,321

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Francisco, CA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 267 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $527/month cheaper in Downey, saving renters about $6,324/year.

Median household income is $54,046/year higher in San Francisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Francisco is $1,380,500 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Francisco vs Downey — common questions

Is San Francisco or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Downey is cheaper to live in with an index of 169 compared to 267 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Francisco and Downey?

Median rent in San Francisco is $2,419/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $527/month.

Which city has higher income, San Francisco or Downey?

Median household income is $141,446 in San Francisco and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $54,046/year higher in San Francisco.

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 Francisco or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. San Francisco has a cost index of 267 with median rent of $2,419/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 Francisco, CA vs Downey, CA (2026)

San Francisco

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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