Novato, CA vs Oakland, CA: Cost of Living Comparison
Oakland has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Novato | Oakland | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 205 | 190 | Oakland |
| Housing | 289 ($1,695) | 266 ($1,342) | Oakland |
| Transportation | 106 ($3.50) | 105 ($3.50) | Oakland |
| Food & groceries | 150 ($615) | 130 ($533) | Oakland |
| Utilities | 195 ($520) | 183 ($479) | Oakland |
| Healthcare | 195 ($376) | 183 ($346) | Oakland |
| Median annual wage | 120 ($58,240) | 120 ($58,240) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Novato, CA or Oakland, CA cheaper to live in?
Oakland, CA is cheaper overall by about 15 index points (Novato, CA: 205, Oakland, CA: 190; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Novato, CA vs Oakland, CA?
A single adult needs roughly $71,750/year in Novato, CA and $66,500/year in Oakland, CA to cover basic living costs.