Chico, CA vs Oildale, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Oildale is 29% cheaper than Chico. With a cost index of 91 vs 118, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Oildale to Chico should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Chico is $1,442/month compared to $1,220/month in Oildale — a 18% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Oildale is more affordable at $225,000 median vs $455,300.

Median household income in Chico is $67,929 compared to $49,622 in Oildale (+36.9%). While Chico is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Chico spend roughly 25.5% of their income on rent, less than the 29.5% in Oildale.