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Utah vs California

A comprehensive side-by-side comparison of cost of living, wages, taxes, and housing between Utah and California. Updated for 2026.

Quick Summary

Utah is 40.9% cheaper to live in than California. However, California has a higher median household income ($87,200 vs $79,449). Average rent for a 1-bedroom is $1,200/mo in Utah vs $1,850/mo in California.

Cost of Living Index

101.3

Utah

142.2

California

28.8% lower in Utah

Minimum Wage ($/hr)

$7.25

Utah

$16.9

California

57.1% lower in Utah

Median Household Income

$79,449

Utah

$87,200

California

8.9% lower in Utah

Average 1BR Rent ($/mo)

$1,200

Utah

$1,850

California

35.1% lower in Utah

State Sales Tax Rate

4.85%

Utah

7.25%

California

33.1% lower in Utah

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Utah or California cheaper to live in?expand_more

Utah has a lower cost of living index (101.3 vs 142.2), making it approximately 28.8% cheaper than California overall.

What is the minimum wage difference between Utah and California?expand_more

Utah has a minimum wage of $7.25/hr while California has $16.9/hr. The difference is $9.65/hr.

Which state has higher median income: Utah or California?expand_more

California has a higher median household income at $87,200, compared to $79,449 in Utah.

Explore Individual States

Utah

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California

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