Tacoma, WA vs Downey, CA: 126 vs 169

$1,597/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 18%

$83,857/yr ↓ 4%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 4%

$454,600 ↓ 38%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 60%

$1,747/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 14%

220,482

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tacoma, WA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $295/month cheaper in Tacoma, saving renters about $3,540/year.

Median household income is $3,543/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tacoma is $454,600 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tacoma vs Downey — common questions

Is Tacoma or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tacoma is cheaper to live in with an index of 126 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tacoma and Downey?

Median rent in Tacoma is $1,597/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $295/month.

Which city has higher income, Tacoma or Downey?

Median household income is $83,857 in Tacoma and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $3,543/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Washington and California?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Tacoma or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,597/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: Tacoma, WA vs Downey, CA (2026)

Tacoma

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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