Folsom, CA vs Walnut, CA
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Folsom is 23.1% cheaper than Walnut. With a cost index of 165 vs 215, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Folsom to Walnut should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Folsom is $2,279/month compared to $3,120/month in Walnut — a 27% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Folsom is more affordable at $702,200 median vs $972,500.
Median household income in Folsom is $139,263 compared to $133,762 in Walnut (+4.1%). Folsom offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Folsom spend roughly 19.6% of their income on rent, less than the 28% in Walnut.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (63.4°F vs 66.1°F). Folsom receives more rainfall at 19.2" per year compared to 10" in Walnut.
Income & Cost
Housing
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Rent by Bedroom Size
HUD Fair Market Rent (FY 2026) — metro area average
Everyday Prices
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)