Cost of Living in San Diego, CA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
197.7
100 = national avg
+97.7 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$86,998
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$205,632
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing310.2
Food129.7
Transportation116.0
Healthcare123.8
Utilities159.9
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 San Diego is 197.7, which is 97.7% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 310.2. A single adult needs to earn approximately $86,998 per year to cover basic expenses.