Castaic, CA vs Novato, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Castaic is 23.2% cheaper than Novato. With a cost index of 152 vs 197, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Castaic to Novato should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Castaic is $1,751/month compared to $2,422/month in Novato — a 28% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Castaic is more affordable at $710,400 median vs $1,007,100.

Median household income in Castaic is $132,153 compared to $112,193 in Novato (+17.8%). Castaic offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Castaic spend roughly 15.9% of their income on rent, less than the 25.9% in Novato.