Cost of Living in Sacramento

California · Population: 528,706 · Updated 2026

Average
Cost Index
106.7
100 = US avg
Median Income
$87K
Annual household
Median Rent
$1,779/mo
2-bedroom unit
Rent Burden
24%
Income to rent ratio
Cost Category Breakdown

Indexed to national average (100)

Housing104.6
Groceries100.0
Utilities100.0
Transportation100.0
Healthcare100.0
Economic Details
Median Home Value$506K
State Income Tax13.3%
Unemployment Rate4.8%
Est. Net Income$76K/yr
Affordability Score
97
out of 100
Above national average cost
Salary Converter for Sacramento

See what salary you'd need in another city to match your purchasing power in Sacramento.

$75,000

About Sacramento

Sacramento is California's capital and offers a more affordable alternative to the Bay Area, with many workers commuting to San Francisco. The government, healthcare, and tech sectors drive the local economy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sacramento expensive?

Sacramento has a cost of living index of 106.7, where 100 represents the national average. This is close to the national average.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Sacramento?

Based on a rent-to-income ratio of 30%, you'd need at least $71,160 to afford the median 2-bedroom apartment in Sacramento and maintain basic expenses.

What is the median rent in Sacramento?

The median 2-bedroom rent in Sacramento is $1,779 per month, according to HUD Fair Market Rent data.