Cost of Living in San Mateo, CA
Population 103,555 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Housing prices in San Mateo cluster toward the top of the US distribution — a median of $1.6 million, roughly 5 times the national figure, consistent with markets dominated by nonresident and vacation-home buyers.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in San Mateo
The median home value in San Mateo is $1,563,200 — 413% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $3,079/month, 134% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $152,669/year is 105% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.3%, 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, San Mateo has a cost of living index of 401 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 301% 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 Mateo, CA?
San Mateo has a cost index of 401 (100 = national average). It is 301% above the national average.
What is average rent in San Mateo, CA?
The median gross rent in San Mateo is $3,079 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in San Mateo?
The median home value in San Mateo is $1,563,200 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in San Mateo?
The median household income in San Mateo is $152,669 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in San Mateo, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in San Mateo is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is San Mateo, CA affordable?
San Mateo is above average in cost of living, with an index of 401 — about 301% higher than the national average.
San Mateo at a Glance
- Population
- 103,555
- Median Income
- $152,669
- Home Value
- $1,563,200
- Median Rent
- $3,079/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.3%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data