Cost of Living in Redwood City, CA
Population 82,423 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
At $1.8 million, the typical home in Redwood City costs about 6× the national median, a premium characteristic of resort and luxury markets rather than primary-residence metros.
Located 6 miles southeast of San Mateo, Redwood City falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 18% 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 Redwood City
The median home value in Redwood City is $1,838,800 — 503% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,959/month, 125% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $150,840/year is 102% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.7%, below 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, Redwood City has a cost of living index of 452 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 352% 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 Redwood City, CA?
Redwood City has a cost index of 452 (100 = national average). It is 352% above the national average.
What is average rent in Redwood City, CA?
The median gross rent in Redwood City is $2,959 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Redwood City?
The median home value in Redwood City is $1,838,800 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Redwood City?
The median household income in Redwood City is $150,840 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Redwood City, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Redwood City is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is Redwood City, CA affordable?
Redwood City is above average in cost of living, with an index of 452 — about 352% higher than the national average.
Redwood City at a Glance
- Population
- 82,423
- Median Income
- $150,840
- Home Value
- $1,838,800
- Median Rent
- $2,959/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.7%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data