Quick answer
Overall prices in the Los Angeles, CA metro were 113.6 vs 111.9 in San Diego, CA in 2024 (US = 100), so Los Angeles is 1.5% more expensive than San Diego; housing rents differ by 5% (170.4 vs 179.3). A $75,000 income in Los Angeles buys about what $73,891 buys in San Diego, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Los Angeles | San Diego | Los Angeles vs San Diego |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 113.6 | 111.9 | +1.5% |
| Goods | 106.6 | 108.0 | -1.2% |
| Housing (rents) | 170.4 | 179.3 | -4.9% |
| Utilities | 158.6 | 174.2 | -9.0% |
| Other services | 104.4 | 99.6 | +4.8% |
| All items, 2008 | 113.3 | 113.7 | -0.4% |
| $50,000 in Los Angeles equals in San Diego | $49,261 | ||
| $100,000 in Los Angeles equals in San Diego | $98,522 | ||
| $150,000 in Los Angeles equals in San Diego | $147,782 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.