Oakland, CA vs Walnut Creek, CA: Cost of Living Comparison
Oakland has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Oakland | Walnut Creek | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 190 | 214 | Oakland |
| Housing | 266 ($1,342) | 296 ($1,829) | Oakland |
| Transportation | 105 ($3.50) | 103 ($3.50) | Walnut Creek |
| Food & groceries | 130 ($533) | 182 ($746) | Oakland |
| Utilities | 183 ($479) | 198 ($533) | Oakland |
| Healthcare | 183 ($346) | 198 ($385) | 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 Oakland, CA or Walnut Creek, CA cheaper to live in?
Oakland, CA is cheaper overall by about 24 index points (Oakland, CA: 190, Walnut Creek, CA: 214; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Oakland, CA vs Walnut Creek, CA?
A single adult needs roughly $66,500/year in Oakland, CA and $74,900/year in Walnut Creek, CA to cover basic living costs.