Cost of Living in Glendale, CA
Population 192,270 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Housing in Glendale sits 242% above the national median — $1 million for the typical home — but median household incomes near $84,262 (13% above the US figure) soften the blow that similar pricing creates in lower-wage metros. At 8.2%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Glendale
The median home value in Glendale is $1,043,900 — 242% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,095/month, 59% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $84,262/year is 13% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 8.2%, 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, Glendale has a cost of living index of 269 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 169% 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 Glendale, CA?
Glendale has a cost index of 269 (100 = national average). It is 169% above the national average.
What is average rent in Glendale, CA?
The median gross rent in Glendale is $2,095 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Glendale?
The median home value in Glendale is $1,043,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Glendale?
The median household income in Glendale is $84,262 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Glendale, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Glendale is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is Glendale, CA affordable?
Glendale is above average in cost of living, with an index of 269 — about 169% higher than the national average.
Glendale at a Glance
- Population
- 192,270
- Median Income
- $84,262
- Home Value
- $1,043,900
- Median Rent
- $2,095/mo
- Unemployment
- 8.2%
- 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