Cost of Living in Salinas, CA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
169.1
100 = national avg
+69.1 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$74,415
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$175,889
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing243.2
Food118.1
Transportation136.3
Healthcare114.5
Utilities139.5
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$2,232
per month
2 Bedroom
$2,684
per month
The overall cost of living index in Salinas is 169.1, which is 69.1% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 243.2. A single adult needs to earn approximately $74,415 per year to cover basic expenses.