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Cost of Living in San Diego

Is it better to rent or buy in San Diego? 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.

$117,646
$2,490/mo

Median in area: $2,490

$947,812

Median in area: $947,812

$189,562

If you Rent

🔑
$2,652 /mo
Base Rent$2,490
Est. Utilities$162
% of Income27.1%
Pre-tax Residual$7,152

If you Buy

🏠
$5,547 /mo
P&I (6.532%)$4,809
Taxes & Ins$576
Est. Utilities$162
% of Income56.6%
Pre-tax Residual$4,257

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in San Diego?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in San Diego. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $2,652, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $5,547 per month (a difference of $2,895).

How much do utilities cost in San Diego?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in San Diego is approximately $162. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in San Diego?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in San Diego without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $106,080 per year.