Apple Valley, CA vs Barstow, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Barstow is 25% cheaper than Apple Valley. With a cost index of 88 vs 110, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Barstow to Apple Valley should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Apple Valley is $1,373/month compared to $1,065/month in Barstow — a 29% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Barstow is more affordable at $222,600 median vs $377,300.

Median household income in Apple Valley is $65,926 compared to $51,811 in Barstow (+27.2%). While Apple Valley is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Apple Valley spend roughly 25% of their income on rent, more than the 24.7% in Barstow.