Cost of Living in National City, CA
Population 55,960 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
National City's housing market carries a clear premium over the US median: $581,000 for a typical home, about 90% above the national figure. At 7.5%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
National City sits roughly 5 miles northwest of Chula Vista — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 17% lower than Chula Vista's $697,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in National City
The median home value in National City is $580,900 — 90% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,619/month, 23% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $64,248/year is 14% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.5%, 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, National City has a cost of living index of 164 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 64% 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 National City, CA?
National City has a cost index of 164 (100 = national average). It is 64% above the national average.
What is average rent in National City, CA?
The median gross rent in National City is $1,619 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in National City?
The median home value in National City is $580,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in National City?
The median household income in National City is $64,248 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in National City, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in National City is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is National City, CA affordable?
National City is above average in cost of living, with an index of 164 — about 64% higher than the national average.
National City at a Glance
- Population
- 55,960
- Median Income
- $64,248
- Home Value
- $580,900
- Median Rent
- $1,619/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.5%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
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California Rankings
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