San Jose vs San Diego

San Diego is cheaper to live in overall. San Jose has a cost of living index of 210 while San Diego has an index of 163, where 100 represents the US national average. San Diego is 22% cheaper than San Jose overall.

The median 1-bedroom rent in San Jose is $2,850 per month compared to $2,350 in San Diego. The median home price in San Jose is $1,380,000 versus $870,000 in San Diego. Housing is typically the largest factor in cost of living differences between cities.

San Jose has a cost of living index of 210 and San Diego has an index of 163, both measured against a US national average of 100. An index above 100 means more expensive than the national average — below 100 means cheaper.

To maintain the same purchasing power as a salary in San Jose, multiply by 0.78. For example a $75,000 salary in San Jose is equivalent to approximately $58,214 in San Diego.

San Jose has a median household income of $130,890 per year versus $83,454 in San Diego. Higher incomes must be weighed against cost of living. Use the Dayblip salary tools to see specific job salaries in both cities.

Whether moving from San Jose to San Diego is worthwhile depends on your salary, lifestyle, and priorities. San Diego is 22% cheaper overall — with the biggest difference in housing. Use the Dayblip cost of living calculator to enter your specific salary and see the exact dollar impact.