San Diego, January 21, 2026
Residents of San Diego are dealing with some of the highest living costs in the US for basics like food, housing, and healthcare. This financial burden is especially tough on low-income families, with many struggling to meet essential expenses as housing prices soar and wages stagnate.
San Diego Residents Face High Costs for Food, Shelter, and Medical Care
San Diego, California – Residents of San Diego are grappling with some of the highest costs in the nation for essential needs, including food, housing, and medical care. These escalating expenses are placing significant financial strain on households across the city.
Rising Costs of Essential Services
Recent data indicates that San Diego’s cost of living is 50% higher than the national average and 20% higher than the state average. This increase is primarily driven by soaring housing costs, elevated transportation expenses, and rising food prices. For instance, the average monthly rent in San Diego has risen to $3,175, placing it as the third-highest in the nation, only $7 less than that of San Francisco.
Impact on Residents
The financial burden is particularly heavy on low-income families. A recent report by United Ways of California found that about 307,000 households in the county, or 31 percent, struggle to meet basic living costs. While the federal poverty line for the area is set at $30,900 a year, the study’s “Real Cost Measure” estimates that a family of four must earn $116,000 annually to cover essentials such as housing, food, and childcare.
Healthcare Expenses
Healthcare costs in San Diego are also notably high. Health insurance premiums for individuals range between $380 and $540 monthly, and out-of-pocket expenses for medical services are substantial. These costs are contributing to financial hardships for many residents.
Economic Outlook
Economists express concern over the city’s economic trajectory. The rising cost of living, coupled with stagnant wages, is leading to increased financial stress among residents. Additionally, the local labor market shows signs of weakness, with unemployment rates slightly above the national average.
Conclusion
San Diego’s residents are facing significant challenges due to the high costs of essential services. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive policy interventions aimed at making housing, food, and healthcare more affordable for all residents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the average monthly rent in San Diego?
The average monthly rent in San Diego has risen to $3,175, placing it as the third-highest in the nation, only $7 less than that of San Francisco.
How much does health insurance cost in San Diego?
Health insurance premiums for individuals in San Diego range between $380 and $540 monthly.
What is the unemployment rate in San Diego?
The unemployment rate in San Diego is slightly above the national average, indicating signs of weakness in the local labor market.
How does San Diego’s cost of living compare to other cities?
San Diego’s cost of living is 50% higher than the national average and 20% higher than the state average, primarily due to high housing costs.
What percentage of San Diego households struggle to meet basic living costs?
Approximately 31% of households in San Diego County struggle to meet basic living costs.
Key Features of San Diego’s High Living Costs
| Expense Category | San Diego Average | National Average | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $3,175/month | $2,500/month | +$675/month |
| Food | 10% higher | – | – |
| Healthcare | $380–$540/month | $300–$450/month | +$80–$90/month |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.6% | 4.0% | +0.6% |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
