Cost of Living in Albany, CA
Population 19,768 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Housing in Albany sits 290% above the national median — $1.2 million for the typical home — but median household incomes near $135,927 (82% above the US figure) soften the blow that similar pricing creates in lower-wage metros.
Geographically, Albany is part of the immediate Berkeley metro area. Median home values run roughly 12% lower than Berkeley's $1.4 million.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Albany
The median home value in Albany is $1,188,600 — 290% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,389/month, 82% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $135,927/year is 82% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.4%, below the national average of 4.8%. California's top state income tax rate is 13.3% and the combined sales tax is 8.7%. Overall, Albany has a cost of living index of 307 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 207% more expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Albany, CA?
Albany has a cost index of 307 (100 = national average). It is 207% above the national average.
What is average rent in Albany, CA?
The median gross rent in Albany is $2,389 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Albany?
The median home value in Albany is $1,188,600 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Albany?
The median household income in Albany is $135,927 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Albany, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Albany is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is Albany, CA affordable?
Albany is above average in cost of living, with an index of 307 — about 207% higher than the national average.
Albany at a Glance
- Population
- 19,768
- Median Income
- $135,927
- Home Value
- $1,188,600
- Median Rent
- $2,389/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.4%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
California Rankings
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