Cost of Living in Lafayette, CA
Population 25,277 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Housing prices in Lafayette cluster toward the top of the US distribution — a median of $2 million, roughly 7 times the national figure, consistent with markets dominated by nonresident and vacation-home buyers.
Geographically, Lafayette sits roughly 9 miles southwest of Concord. Median home values run roughly 165% higher than Concord's $756,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Lafayette
The median home value in Lafayette is $2,000,001 — 556% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,855/month, 117% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $222,393/year is 198% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.9%, 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, Lafayette has a cost of living index of 480 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 380% 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 Lafayette, CA?
Lafayette has a cost index of 480 (100 = national average). It is 380% above the national average.
What is average rent in Lafayette, CA?
The median gross rent in Lafayette is $2,855 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Lafayette?
The median home value in Lafayette is $2,000,001 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Lafayette?
The median household income in Lafayette is $222,393 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Lafayette, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Lafayette is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is Lafayette, CA affordable?
Lafayette is above average in cost of living, with an index of 480 — about 380% higher than the national average.
Lafayette at a Glance
- Population
- 25,277
- Median Income
- $222,393
- Home Value
- $2,000,001
- Median Rent
- $2,855/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.9%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data