Los Angeles vs San Diego
Cost of living comparison for Los Angeles, California and San Diego, California.
San Diego is approximately 9% more expensive than Los Angeles. A single person needs about $4,511/mo in San Diego versus $4,135/mo in Los Angeles.
Rent in Los Angeles vs San Diego
HUD Fair Market Rents by bedroom count.
Income & earnings in Los Angeles vs San Diego
Annual figures from Census ACS.
Home values in Los Angeles vs San Diego
Average values and property tax.
Energy in Los Angeles vs San Diego
Estimated monthly electricity and gas.
Healthcare in Los Angeles vs San Diego
Marketplace premium estimates and coverage rate.
Taxes in Los Angeles vs San Diego
State income and sales tax.
Transportation in Los Angeles vs San Diego
Commute time and travel modes.
Monthly cost estimates in Los Angeles vs San Diego
All categories combined.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions comparing Los Angeles and San Diego.
Is Los Angeles or San Diego more expensive?
San Diego is more expensive overall. A single person needs approximately $4,135/mo in Los Angeles, California and $4,511/mo in San Diego, California, a difference of about 9%.
What is the rent difference between Los Angeles and San Diego?
Average one-bedroom rent in Los Angeles, California is $2,081/mo versus $2,328/mo in San Diego, California. San Diego is approximately $247 (12%) more expensive for a one-bedroom apartment.
Which has higher income, Los Angeles or San Diego?
San Diego has the higher average household income. Los Angeles households earn approximately $87,760 per year; San Diego households earn approximately $102,285 per year.
More on Los Angeles and San Diego
Read full profiles for either area, or pick a different pair to compare.
About this data
Figures come from official U.S. government sources including the Census Bureau (ACS), HUD Fair Market Rents, and the Energy Information Administration. See our methodology for details.