Downey, CA vs Irvine, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Downey is 28.3% cheaper than Irvine. With a cost index of 157 vs 219, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Downey to Irvine should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Downey is $1,892/month compared to $2,893/month in Irvine — a 35% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Downey is more affordable at $728,500 median vs $1,115,400.

Median household income in Downey is $87,400 compared to $129,647 in Irvine (-32.6%). While Irvine is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Downey spend roughly 26% of their income on rent, less than the 26.8% in Irvine.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (64.9°F vs 64.9°F). Downey receives more rainfall at 12" per year compared to 11.2" in Irvine.