San DiegovsEdmonton
Overall
💰-20.0%
San Diego is 20.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠-40.0%
Housing is 40.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-12.5%
Restaurants 12.5% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-8.2%
Food shopping 8.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between San Diego, United States and Edmonton, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that San Diego is more affordable than Edmonton by approximately 20.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in San Diego are higher than in Edmonton by 67%. A one-bedroom apartment in San Diego's city center costs around $2,500, while the same in Edmonton is approximately CA$1,400.
Dining out in San Diego is notably more expensive compared to Edmonton. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $18 in San Diego versus CA$18 in Edmonton.
Public transportation in San Diego is more affordable, with monthly passes at $72 compared to CA$100 in Edmonton.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in San Diego can expect to spend approximately $581 per month (excluding rent), while in Edmonton, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$695. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,034 monthly in San Diego versus CA$2,431 in Edmonton. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Edmonton to San Diego, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from San Diego to Edmonton requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
San Diego
Edmonton
Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Diego more expensive than Edmonton?
No, San Diego is approximately 20.0% cheaper than Edmonton. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in San Diego compared to Edmonton?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 83% of your Edmonton salary when living in San Diego. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Edmonton, you'd need about $41,667 in San Diego for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between San Diego and Edmonton?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 67%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Edmonton offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, San Diego provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider San Diego if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Edmonton for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for San Diego vs Edmonton?
In San Diego, a single person needs approximately $2,581 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $5,534. In Edmonton, these figures are CA$1,795 for singles and CA$4,331 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between San Diego and Edmonton in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Edmonton to maintain your lifestyle from San Diego
Calculate Salary Equivalence