Newark, CA vs Pasadena, CA

Pasadena is moderately more affordable than Newark, with a 10.6% lower cost of living index. Newark scores 214 compared to 193 for Pasadena, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Newark can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Newark is $2,730/month compared to $2,218/month in Pasadena — a 23% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Pasadena is more affordable at $1,045,000 median vs $1,094,200.

Median household income in Newark is $164,909 compared to $103,778 in Pasadena (+58.9%). While Newark is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Newark spend roughly 19.9% 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 59.9°F in Newark. Pasadena receives more rainfall at 14.3" per year compared to 13.5" in Newark.