Cost of Living in San Rafael, CA
Population 60,604 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
At $1.2 million, the typical home in San Rafael costs about 4× the national median, a premium characteristic of resort and luxury markets rather than primary-residence metros.
San Rafael sits roughly 8 miles west of Richmond — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 92% higher than Richmond's $650,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in San Rafael
The median home value in San Rafael is $1,246,200 — 309% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,346/month, 79% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $109,317/year is 47% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.8%, 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 Rafael has a cost of living index of 317 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 217% 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 Rafael, CA?
San Rafael has a cost index of 317 (100 = national average). It is 217% above the national average.
What is average rent in San Rafael, CA?
The median gross rent in San Rafael is $2,346 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in San Rafael?
The median home value in San Rafael is $1,246,200 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in San Rafael?
The median household income in San Rafael is $109,317 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in San Rafael, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in San Rafael is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is San Rafael, CA affordable?
San Rafael is above average in cost of living, with an index of 317 — about 217% higher than the national average.
San Rafael at a Glance
- Population
- 60,604
- Median Income
- $109,317
- Home Value
- $1,246,200
- Median Rent
- $2,346/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.8%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
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California Rankings
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