Calexico, CA vs Downey, CA

The cost of living difference between Calexico, CA and Downey, CA is dramatic. Calexico is 42.8% cheaper than Downey, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Calexico has a cost index of 90 while Downey sits at 157, 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 Calexico is $1,049/month compared to $1,892/month in Downey — a 45% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Calexico is more affordable at $281,700 median vs $728,500.

Median household income in Calexico is $50,021 compared to $87,400 in Downey (-42.8%). The higher salaries in Downey partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Calexico spend roughly 25.2% of their income on rent, less than the 26% in Downey.