Lakewood, CA vs Oxnard, CA
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Oxnard is 16.1% cheaper than Lakewood. With a cost index of 150 vs 174, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Oxnard to Lakewood should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Lakewood is $2,324/month compared to $1,962/month in Oxnard — a 19% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Oxnard is more affordable at $617,800 median vs $774,100.
Median household income in Lakewood is $116,794 compared to $93,372 in Oxnard (+25.1%). While Lakewood is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Lakewood spend roughly 23.9% of their income on rent, less than the 25.2% in Oxnard.
Climate-wise, Lakewood is notably warmer with an average of 64.9°F compared to 61.2°F in Oxnard. Oxnard receives more rainfall at 12.9" per year compared to 12" in Lakewood.
Income & Cost
Housing
Salary Equivalency Calculator
What does your salary in one city buy you in the other?
Rent by Bedroom Size
HUD Fair Market Rent (FY 2026) — metro area average
Everyday Prices
BLS Average Prices by metro area
Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)