Cost of Living in La Mesa, CA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
176.3
100 = national avg
+76.3 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$77,589
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$183,392
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing271.5
Food114.5
Transportation128.9
Healthcare111.6
Utilities143.0
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$2,459
per month
2 Bedroom
$3,001
per month
The overall cost of living index in La Mesa is 176.3, which is 76.3% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 271.5. A single adult needs to earn approximately $77,589 per year to cover basic expenses.