San DiegovsSydney
Overall
💰+5.9%
San Diego is 5.9%more expensive
Rent
🏠+6.7%
Housing is 6.7% higher
Dining
🍽️+12.5%
Restaurants 12.5% pricier
Groceries
🛒0.0%
Food shopping 0.0% same
Comparing the cost of living between San Diego, United States and Sydney, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that San Diego is more expensive than Sydney by approximately 5.9%. 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 lower than in Sydney by 6%. A one-bedroom apartment in San Diego's city center costs around $2,500, while the same in Sydney is approximately A$3,000.
Dining out in San Diego offers significant savings compared to Sydney. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $18 in San Diego versus A$20 in Sydney.
Public transportation in San Diego is more affordable, with monthly passes at $72 compared to A$200 in Sydney.
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 Sydney, the same lifestyle would cost around A$804. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,034 monthly in San Diego versus A$2,814 in Sydney. 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 San Diego to Sydney, 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 Sydney to San Diego 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
Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Diego more expensive than Sydney?
Yes, San Diego is approximately 5.9% more expensive than Sydney overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in San Diego compared to Sydney?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Sydney salary when living in San Diego. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Sydney, you'd need about $52,941 in San Diego for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between San Diego and Sydney?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 11%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Sydney offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Sydney provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider San Diego if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Sydney for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for San Diego vs Sydney?
In San Diego, a single person needs approximately $2,581 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $5,534. In Sydney, these figures are A$3,004 for singles and A$6,614 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between San Diego and Sydney in 2025 shows moderate 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 Sydney to maintain your lifestyle from San Diego
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