Cost of Living in Foster City, CA
Population 32,964 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
At $1.8 million, the typical home in Foster City costs about 6× the national median, a premium characteristic of resort and luxury markets rather than primary-residence metros.
Geographically, Foster City is part of the immediate San Mateo metro area. Median home values run roughly 14% higher than San Mateo's $1.6 million.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Foster City
The median home value in Foster City is $1,774,500 — 482% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $3,501/month, 166% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $193,633/year is 160% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.8%, 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, Foster City has a cost of living index of 456 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 356% 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 Foster City, CA?
Foster City has a cost index of 456 (100 = national average). It is 356% above the national average.
What is average rent in Foster City, CA?
The median gross rent in Foster City is $3,501 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Foster City?
The median home value in Foster City is $1,774,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Foster City?
The median household income in Foster City is $193,633 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Foster City, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Foster City is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is Foster City, CA affordable?
Foster City is above average in cost of living, with an index of 456 — about 356% higher than the national average.
Foster City at a Glance
- Population
- 32,964
- Median Income
- $193,633
- Home Value
- $1,774,500
- Median Rent
- $3,501/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.8%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data