San Fernando, CA vs Walnut Creek, CA

The cost of living difference between San Fernando, CA and Walnut Creek, CA is dramatic. San Fernando is 30.2% cheaper than Walnut Creek, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. San Fernando has a cost index of 143 while Walnut Creek sits at 205, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in San Fernando is $1,690/month compared to $2,613/month in Walnut Creek — a 35% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: San Fernando is more affordable at $630,700 median vs $1,031,100.

Median household income in San Fernando is $79,694 compared to $135,665 in Walnut Creek (-41.3%). While Walnut Creek is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of San Fernando spend roughly 25.4% of their income on rent, more than the 23.1% in Walnut Creek.

Climate-wise, San Fernando is notably warmer with an average of 66.6°F compared to 62°F in Walnut Creek. Walnut Creek receives more rainfall at 16.1" per year compared to 13.4" in San Fernando.