Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
26% cheaper
Denver is 26% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $55,312 in Denver.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Colorado salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Denver has a housing index of 152 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Denver costs $520,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $280,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,900 in Denver versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Denver scores 102 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Denver (104) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Denver is $72,661 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Denver.
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