📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Edmond and San Diego
Head-to-Head Analysis
Edmond vs San Diego
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Edmond | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $98,524 | $105,780 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.5% | 4.9% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $380,000 | $930,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $175 | $662 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $773 | $2,248 |
| Housing Cost Index | 78.1 | 185.8 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 92.2 | 103.5 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.98 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 189.0 | 378.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 58.7% | 52% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 34 | 25 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
San Diego vs. Edmond: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
Picture this: You're standing at a crossroads. To your left, the sun-drenched Pacific coast, salty air, and the hum of a major metropolis. To your right, the quiet, tree-lined streets of a suburban haven, a strong sense of community, and a price tag that feels almost nostalgic. This isn't just a choice between two cities; it's a choice between two vastly different lifestyles. On one side, we have San Diego, California—the "America's Finest City," a global destination known for its perfect weather and vibrant economy. On the other, Edmond, Oklahoma—a rapidly growing suburb of Oklahoma City, consistently ranked among the best places to live in the state.
As your relocation expert and data journalist, my job is to cut through the hype and give you the unvarnished truth. We're going to dig deep into the data, the vibes, and the real-world implications of each choice. Grab your coffee; let's figure out which of these cities deserves your next chapter.
The Vibe Check: Coastal Cool vs. Heartland Charm
Let's start with the soul of each place.
San Diego is the epitome of West Coast cool. It’s a massive, diverse city where the tech, biotech, and military industries thrive. The vibe is laid-back but ambitious. You'll find surfers catching waves at dawn before heading to a Fortune 500 office. The culture is deeply influenced by its proximity to Mexico, its world-class zoo, and a nightlife that ranges from craft breweries in North Park to upscale cocktails in the Gaslamp Quarter. It’s for the person who craves energy, diversity, and the ability to go from a mountain hike to a beach sunset in the same day.
Edmond is the picture of suburban Americana. It’s a family-centric community with excellent public schools, safe neighborhoods, and a slower pace of life. The culture is rooted in community events, high school football, and a strong local business scene. It’s a place where people know their neighbors, and the biggest decision on a Saturday might be which local diner to visit. It’s for the person who values stability, affordability, and a strong sense of place over big-city amenities.
Who is it for?
- San Diego: The young professional, the biotech researcher, the military service member, the beach lover, the foodie, and anyone who thrives in a diverse, fast-paced environment.
- Edmond: The young family, the budget-conscious buyer, the retiree seeking a safe and comfortable community, and anyone who prefers a quieter, more predictable lifestyle.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Stretch Further?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Let's talk cold, hard cash.
First, a critical note on taxes. California has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 1% to 13.3%. Oklahoma, meanwhile, has a flat state income tax rate of 4.75%. This is a massive factor in your take-home pay.
Let's assume you earn a median income in each city. In San Diego, that's $105,780. In Edmond, it's $98,524. After California's steep taxes, your San Diego paycheck will be significantly smaller than your Edmond paycheck, despite the higher nominal salary.
Now, let's break down the monthly cost of living.
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| Category | San Diego, CA | Edmond, OK | Winner (Cost) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $930,000 | $380,000 | Edmond (by a landslide) |
| Rent (1BR) | $2,248 | $773 | Edmond |
| Groceries | ~15% higher than national avg | ~5% lower than national avg | Edmond |
| Utilities | ~25% higher than national avg | ~15% lower than national avg | Edmond |
| Overall Housing Index | 185.8 (85.8% above US avg) | 78.1 (21.9% below US avg) | Edmond |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
Let's do a thought experiment. You have a remote job paying $100,000. Where does it feel like more?
In Edmond, your $100k salary is taxed at the flat 4.75% state rate. Your take-home is roughly $95,250 before federal taxes. Your biggest expense, housing, is incredibly affordable. A $380,000 home is within reach for a dual-income family. Your $773 rent leaves plenty of room for savings, travel, and leisure. The "sticker shock" here is minimal.
In San Diego, your $100k salary is subject to California's state tax. At that income level, you're looking at roughly an 8% effective state tax rate. Your take-home is closer to $92,000 before federal taxes. Now, consider that the median home price is $930,000. Even with a $105,780 median income, homeownership is a monumental challenge for the average person. Rent at $2,248 for a one-bedroom is more than triple the cost in Edmond. Your purchasing power is drastically diminished. You're paying a premium for the location, and it shows in every financial category.
Insight: Edmond offers bang for your buck that San Diego simply cannot match. Your salary will go significantly further in Oklahoma, allowing for a higher quality of life on the same income. San Diego's high cost of living is a direct trade-off for its amenities and location.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
This category is a tale of two extremes.
San Diego's Market: It is a chronic seller's market. With a median home price of $930,000, the barrier to entry is astronomical. Inventory is chronically low, and bidding wars are common, especially for single-family homes. Renting is the default for many, but even that is expensive. The housing index of 185.8 quantifies the pressure. If you're looking to buy, you need a substantial down payment and a high income. If you're renting, prepare for annual increases and fierce competition.
Edmond's Market: This is a healthy, balanced market leaning slightly toward buyers. With a median home price of $380,000, homeownership is a realistic goal for many. Inventory is more stable, and while prices are rising (Edmond is a popular suburb), you're not facing the same level of competition as in Southern California. Renting is exceptionally affordable, making it a great option for those saving for a down payment. The housing index of 78.1 shows it's well below the national average.
Verdict: Edmond wins hands-down for affordability and accessibility. San Diego's housing market is a luxury product, while Edmond's is a practical, attainable one.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Factors
Sometimes, the data doesn't tell the whole story. Let's talk about the intangibles that make or break daily life.
Traffic & Commute
- San Diego: Traffic is a real issue. The I-5, I-805, and SR-15 are notorious for congestion. The average commute time is 27 minutes, but that can easily double during peak hours. Public transit (trolley, buses) is available but doesn't cover all areas efficiently.
- Edmond: Traffic is minimal. The average commute is around 22 minutes, and you're primarily driving on well-maintained suburban roads and highways. Rush hour in Oklahoma City is a minor blip compared to San Diego. This is a massive quality-of-life win for Edmond.
Weather
- San Diego: This is the city's crown jewel. With an average annual temperature of 57.0°F, it's famously mild. Summers are dry and warm (avg high 76°F), winters are cool and damp (avg low 48°F). It's a Mediterranean climate with near-perfect conditions year-round. Humidity is low. No snow, minimal rain. It's the reason people pay the premium.
- Edmond: The weather is a classic four-season experience. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures regularly hitting the 90s°F. Winters can be cold, with occasional snowfall and ice storms (avg low in January is 30°F). Spring and fall are beautiful but can be volatile. For those who love distinct seasons, it's a pro. For those who hate humidity and snow, it's a con.
Crime & Safety
- San Diego: With a violent crime rate of 378.0 per 100,000 people, San Diego is safer than many major U.S. cities but still has significant crime, especially in certain neighborhoods. Like any large metropolitan area, you need to be aware of your surroundings.
- Edmond: This is one of Edmond's strongest selling points. Its violent crime rate is 189.0 per 100,000 people—less than half that of San Diego. It's consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in Oklahoma. The sense of security is palpable and a major draw for families.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins Each Category?
After crunching the numbers and weighing the lifestyles, here’s the final breakdown.
🏆 Winner for Families: Edmond
For the average family, Edmond is the clear choice. The combination of safe neighborhoods (189.0 violent crime rate), excellent public schools, affordable housing ($380,000 median price), and a lower cost of living creates an environment where raising kids is financially and emotionally manageable. The community focus and slower pace are ideal for family life.
🏆 Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: San Diego
If you're single, career-driven, and value social and cultural amenities, San Diego is unbeatable. The diversity, nightlife, professional opportunities (especially in tech/biotech), and weather are a powerful combination. The high cost is the price of admission, but for those in high-earning fields, it's worth it. You're paying for the experience.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: Edmond
Retirees on a fixed income will find Edmond's affordability and safety to be paramount. The lower taxes, cheaper housing, and minimal stress of a smaller community are ideal. While San Diego's weather is perfect, the financial strain of $930,000 homes and high taxes can be a dealbreaker. Edmond offers a comfortable, secure, and financially sustainable retirement.
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
San Diego, CA
Pros:
- World-class, perfect weather year-round.
- Incredible natural beauty (beaches, mountains, deserts).
- Diverse, vibrant culture and food scene.
- Strong job market in high-paying industries.
- Major international airport and global connectivity.
Cons:
- Extreme cost of living (especially housing).
- High state income taxes (up to 13.3%).
- Significant traffic and congestion.
- Competitive rental and real estate markets.
- Homelessness is visible in many areas.
Edmond, OK
Pros:
- Extremely affordable cost of living and housing.
- Low state income tax (4.75% flat rate).
- Very safe community with low crime rates.
- Excellent public schools and family-friendly environment.
- Minimal traffic and a relaxed pace of life.
Cons:
- Limited cultural and entertainment amenities compared to a major metro.
- Weather extremes (hot, humid summers; cold winters).
- Fewer high-paying job opportunities (requires commuting to OKC or remote work).
- Less diversity and a more homogenous culture.
- Limited public transportation options.
The Bottom Line:
Your choice ultimately boils down to a fundamental trade-off: Coastal premium vs. Heartland value. San Diego sells you a dream of sun-drenched perfection, and you pay dearly for it. Edmond offers a practical, comfortable, and financially intelligent path to a high quality of life. There is no wrong answer—only the one that aligns with your budget, career, and personal priorities. Choose wisely.