San Diego vs Salt Lake City: Cost of Living & Housing Comparison
Median home value runs $783,300 in San Diego, 71% higher than the $458,600 median in Salt Lake City.
Income differs between the two: $98,657 at the median in San Diego, $72,357 in Salt Lake City.
Typical rent runs $2,080 in San Diego and $1,254 in Salt Lake City.
San Diego carries a higher hazard rating than Salt Lake City, per FEMA — Very High versus Relatively High.
| Metric | San Diego, CA | Salt Lake City, UT |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,383,987 | 201,269 |
| Median home value | $783,300 | $458,600 |
| Median household income | $98,657 | $72,357 |
| Median gross rent | $2,080 | $1,254 |
| Climate risk (FEMA) | Very High | Relatively High |
On housing costs, Salt Lake City, UT looks more affordable than San Diego, CA — lower median home value and rent. This reflects housing only, not total cost of living.
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Sources: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey; FEMA National Risk Index
Data last updated July 2026.