Lomita, CA vs San Rafael, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Lomita is 23.9% cheaper than San Rafael. With a cost index of 163 vs 214, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Lomita to San Rafael should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Lomita is $1,918/month compared to $2,346/month in San Rafael — a 18% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Lomita is more affordable at $792,100 median vs $1,246,200.

Median household income in Lomita is $92,920 compared to $109,317 in San Rafael (-15%). The higher salaries in San Rafael partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Lomita spend roughly 24.8% of their income on rent, less than the 25.8% in San Rafael.

Climate-wise, Lomita is notably warmer with an average of 63°F compared to 57.7°F in San Rafael. San Rafael receives more rainfall at 22.9" per year compared to 13.6" in Lomita.