California Cost of Living Calculator
Compare California cost of living (index: 142.2). Calculate equivalent salary needed when moving to or from California.
How This Calculator Works
Calculation methodology and assumptions
This calculator compares purchasing power between locations using cost of living indices. California's cost of living index is 142.2 (100 = national average). The equivalent salary is calculated as: Current Salary × (Target COL / Current COL). Tax differences are also factored in to show the net financial impact of relocating.
Key State Information
California cost of living index: 142.2. California is significantly more expensive than the national average. Higher housing, transportation, and food costs drive this. Median household income: $91,905. Median 2BR rent: $2150/month.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in California?
California's cost of living index is 142.2, where 100 is the national average. This means living in California costs about 42% more than the national average.
Is California expensive to live in?
Yes, California is one of the more expensive states. Housing costs are the primary driver. Median home price: $785,000.
How much do I need to earn in California to live comfortably?
Based on a cost of living index of 142.2 and the 50-30-20 budgeting rule, a comfortable salary in California would be approximately $122,292/year for a single person renting a 2BR apartment.
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