Apple Valley, CA vs South Pasadena, CA

The cost of living difference between Apple Valley, CA and South Pasadena, CA is dramatic. Apple Valley is 53% cheaper than South Pasadena, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Apple Valley has a cost index of 110 while South Pasadena sits at 234, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Apple Valley is $1,373/month compared to $2,218/month in South Pasadena — a 38% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Apple Valley is more affordable at $377,300 median vs $1,545,100.

Median household income in Apple Valley is $65,926 compared to $128,105 in South Pasadena (-48.5%). The higher salaries in South Pasadena partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Apple Valley spend roughly 25% of their income on rent, more than the 20.8% in South Pasadena.