Cost of Living in California City, CA
Population 14,821 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
California City sits on the smaller end of the California city distribution. That scale shapes the housing market, the labor pool, and the services available to residents in ways the data below makes visible. Around 24% of residents live below the federal poverty line, a rate that tends to correlate with the income and housing figures above.
Located 35 miles northeast of Lancaster, California City falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 41% lower than Lancaster's $409,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in California City
The median home value in California City is $239,600 — 21% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,016/month, 23% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $55,271/year is 26% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 18.5%, above 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, California City has a cost of living index of 78 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 22% less 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 California City, CA?
California City has a cost index of 78 (100 = national average). It is 22% below the national average.
What is average rent in California City, CA?
The median gross rent in California City is $1,016 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in California City?
The median home value in California City is $239,600 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in California City?
The median household income in California City is $55,271 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in California City, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in California City is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is California City, CA affordable?
Yes, California City is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 78 — about 22% below the US national average of 100.
California City at a Glance
- Population
- 14,821
- Median Income
- $55,271
- Home Value
- $239,600
- Median Rent
- $1,016/mo
- Unemployment
- 18.5%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
California Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
Cities in other states with comparable housing costs