Chico, CA vs San Bernardino, CA

Chico, CA and San Bernardino, CA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.6% difference in their overall index. Chico scores 118 while San Bernardino scores 113 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Chico is $1,442/month compared to $1,433/month in San Bernardino — a 1% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: San Bernardino is more affordable at $384,900 median vs $455,300.

Median household income in Chico is $67,929 compared to $63,988 in San Bernardino (+6.2%). 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 26.9% in San Bernardino.