Explore Daly City, CA
Cost of Living in Daly City, CA (2026) – Salary Needed & Budget Calculator
Thinking about moving to Daly City? Use this 2026 Daly City cost of living calculator to estimate rent, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare and taxes.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Your current salary may not cover average living costs in Daly City. Consider a cheaper neighborhood or reducing discretionary spending.
| Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (Single) | $2,300.00 |
| Utilities | $266.00 |
| Groceries | $450.00 |
| Transportation (Public) | $350.00 |
| Healthcare | $400.00 |
| Miscellaneous (10.0%) | $301.60 |
| Total Estimated Costs | $4,067.60 |
Tax & Benefits Breakdown
Quality of Life & Environment
Local Climate
Enjoy 303 days of sunshine per year. Summer highs avg 91°F, while winter lows dip to 16°F.
Safety & Crime Rate
Daly City ranks as a high safety zone compared to national averages for similar-sized metros.
Environmental Index
Air quality and environmental health factors in California remain a key priority for 2026.
Planning your move to or from Daly City?
Daly City, CA: The Fog-Capped Gateway (2026 Relocation Guide)
Daly City enters 2026 as the ultimate overflow valve for San Francisco. Known for its iconic' Little Boxes' houses and the persistent Pacific fog, this is where the Bay Area's middle class finds a precarious foothold. It is an urban, high-density suburb that trades sunshine for immediate BART access and a world-class Filipino culinary scene.
📊 Real Monthly Cost: The Relocation Analyst's Estimate
The 'fog tax' is real. A single adult in Daly City needs at least $4,200 per month for a basic standard of living in 2026. For a family of four, that number jumps to $9,100, driven by California's state income tax (9.3% for most) and utility costs that are 35% higher than the national average. Despite the high cost, it remains roughly 15-20% cheaper than living in San Francisco proper.
🏠 Housing Reality: Stucco and Steeps
In 2026, the median home price in Daly City hovers around $1.15 million. You aren't paying for acreage; you're paying for a lot the size of a postage stamp on a steep incline. Rentals are dominated by 1950s-era apartment blocks and converted basement suites, with 1-bedrooms averaging $2,350. Inventory is low, and competition is fierce among commuters who value the 15-minute train ride to SF's Financial District.
⚠️ Hidden Trade-Offs: The Perpetual Grey
The most significant trade-off is the weather. Daly City is one of the foggiest places in California; you can go weeks in the summer without seeing the sun. Additionally, parking is a historic nightmare—narrow streets and high density mean you will likely spend 15 minutes circling for a spot if your unit doesn't include a garage.
🏆 Final Relocation Verdict
Move here if: You work in San Francisco and want the shortest possible commute with slightly more space and lower rent than the city. Ideal for those who love coastal fog and steep urban hikes.
Avoid this city if: You suffer from seasonal affective disorder or hate hills. Daly City is cold, grey, and vertical.
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably
In our estimation, to live a comfortable life in Daly City with a buffer for savings and hobbies, you would need a gross annual salary of approximately:
This assumes you want to save at least $1,000 per month after all expenses and taxes.
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Calculator Disclaimer
The results provided by this calculator are estimates based on publicly available data and modeling assumptions. Actual living costs, taxes, and relocation expenses may vary depending on personal circumstances, market conditions, and local regulations. This tool is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making financial or relocation decisions.