Hercules, CA vs Rio del Mar, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Hercules is 18.8% cheaper than Rio del Mar. With a cost index of 193 vs 238, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Hercules to Rio del Mar should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Hercules is $3,003/month compared to $3,172/month in Rio del Mar — a 5% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hercules is more affordable at $741,200 median vs $1,242,600.

Median household income in Hercules is $130,583 compared to $150,313 in Rio del Mar (-13.1%). The higher salaries in Rio del Mar partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Hercules spend roughly 27.6% of their income on rent, more than the 25.3% in Rio del Mar.

Climate-wise, Hercules is notably warmer with an average of 62°F compared to 57.2°F in Rio del Mar. Rio del Mar receives more rainfall at 22.4" per year compared to 16.1" in Hercules.