Cost of Living in San Bruno, CA
Population 42,612 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Housing in San Bruno sits 293% above the national median — $1.2 million for the typical home — but median household incomes near $135,976 (82% above the US figure) soften the blow that similar pricing creates in lower-wage metros.
San Bruno sits roughly 5 miles southeast of Daly City — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 10% higher than Daly City's $1.1 million.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in San Bruno
The median home value in San Bruno is $1,199,400 — 293% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,696/month, 105% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $135,976/year is 82% 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, San Bruno has a cost of living index of 318 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 218% 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 San Bruno, CA?
San Bruno has a cost index of 318 (100 = national average). It is 218% above the national average.
What is average rent in San Bruno, CA?
The median gross rent in San Bruno is $2,696 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in San Bruno?
The median home value in San Bruno is $1,199,400 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in San Bruno?
The median household income in San Bruno is $135,976 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in San Bruno, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in San Bruno is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is San Bruno, CA affordable?
San Bruno is above average in cost of living, with an index of 318 — about 218% higher than the national average.
San Bruno at a Glance
- Population
- 42,612
- Median Income
- $135,976
- Home Value
- $1,199,400
- Median Rent
- $2,696/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.9%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
California Rankings
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