Cost of Living in Salinas, CA

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Salinas? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $9,953 per year — combining federal taxes with California's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($2,684/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Salinas metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $27,839, or roughly $2,320 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Salinas metro has a cost of living index of 166.6 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 67% above average, Salinas is a noticeably expensive metro — groceries, services, and everyday purchases cost more than in most of the country.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Salinas represents approximately 46% of gross income. That is well above what most financial advisors recommend, indicating that Salinas is a financial stretch at a $70,000 salary without roommates or a higher-earning household.