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Cost of Living in San Rafael

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

$117,957
$2,453/mo

Median in area: $2,453

$1,267,973

Median in area: $1,267,973

$253,595

If you Rent

🔑
$2,656 /mo
Base Rent$2,453
Est. Utilities$203
% of Income27.0%
Pre-tax Residual$7,174

If you Buy

🏠
$7,420 /mo
P&I (6.456%)$6,382
Taxes & Ins$835
Est. Utilities$203
% of Income75.5%
Pre-tax Residual$2,410

Cost of Living FAQs

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

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in San Rafael. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $2,656, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $7,420 per month (a difference of $4,764).

How much do utilities cost in San Rafael?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in San Rafael is approximately $203. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

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

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in San Rafael without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $106,240 per year.