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Cost of Living in Fresno

Is it better to rent or buy in Fresno? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$79,207
$1,561/mo

Median in area: $1,561

$373,557

Median in area: $373,557

$74,711

If you Rent

🔑
$1,793 /mo
Base Rent$1,561
Est. Utilities$232
% of Income27.2%
Pre-tax Residual$4,808

If you Buy

🏠
$2,430 /mo
P&I (6.5%)$1,889
Taxes & Ins$309
Est. Utilities$232
% of Income36.8%
Pre-tax Residual$4,171

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Fresno?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Fresno. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,793, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,430 per month (a difference of $637).

How much do utilities cost in Fresno?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Fresno is approximately $232. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Fresno?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Fresno without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $71,720 per year.