Lincoln, CA vs Orange, CA
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Lincoln is 16.2% cheaper than Orange. With a cost index of 153 vs 182, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Lincoln to Orange should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Lincoln is $2,081/month compared to $2,252/month in Orange — a 8% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Lincoln is more affordable at $628,500 median vs $900,700.
Median household income in Lincoln is $108,108 compared to $116,945 in Orange (-7.6%). Orange does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Lincoln spend roughly 23.1% of their income on rent, less than the 23.1% in Orange.
Climate-wise, Orange is notably warmer with an average of 64.9°F compared to 61.2°F in Lincoln. Lincoln receives more rainfall at 18" per year compared to 11.2" in Orange.
Income & Cost
Housing
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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)