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Cost of Living in San Mateo County

Is it better to rent or buy in San Mateo County? 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.

$166,777
$2,980/mo

Median in area: $2,980

$1,489,542

Median in area: $1,489,542

$297,908

If you Rent

🔑
$3,220 /mo
Base Rent$2,980
Est. Utilities$240
% of Income23.2%
Pre-tax Residual$10,678

If you Buy

🏠
$9,095 /mo
P&I (7.174%)$8,068
Taxes & Ins$787
Est. Utilities$240
% of Income65.4%
Pre-tax Residual$4,803

Compare Nearby Areas

See how San Mateo County stacks up against neighboring areas.

countySan Francisco County, CA
$2,604/mo
countyAlameda County, CA
$2,560/mo
countySanta Clara County, CA
$2,920/mo
countySanta Cruz County, CA
$2,289/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in San Mateo County?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in San Mateo County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $3,220, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $9,095 per month (a difference of $5,875).

How much do utilities cost in San Mateo County?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in San Mateo County is approximately $240. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

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

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in San Mateo County without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $128,800 per year.