Lincoln, CA vs Pasadena, CA
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Lincoln is 20.9% cheaper than Pasadena. With a cost index of 153 vs 193, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Lincoln to Pasadena should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Lincoln is $2,081/month compared to $2,218/month in Pasadena — a 6% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Lincoln is more affordable at $628,500 median vs $1,045,000.
Median household income in Lincoln is $108,108 compared to $103,778 in Pasadena (+4.2%). Lincoln offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Lincoln spend roughly 23.1% of their income on rent, less than the 25.6% in Pasadena.
Climate-wise, Pasadena is notably warmer with an average of 65.8°F compared to 61.2°F in Lincoln. Lincoln receives more rainfall at 18" per year compared to 14.3" in Pasadena.
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)