Merced vs San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Merced is 76% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,055/mo vs $1,856/mo in San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad — saving $9,612/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Merced | San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $696 | $1,238 | $542 |
| 1 Bedroom | $865 | $1,466 | $601 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,055 | $1,856 | $801 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,328 | $2,340 | $1,012 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 | $2,656 | $1,196 |
| Median Income | $60,958 | $126,765 | $65,807 |
Merced
- Studio
- $696/mo
- 1 BR
- $865/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,055/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,328/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,460/mo
- Median Income
- $60,958/yr
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad
- Studio
- $1,238/mo
- 1 BR
- $1,466/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,856/mo
- 3 BR
- $2,340/mo
- 4 BR
- $2,656/mo
- Median Income
- $126,765/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Merced or San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad cheaper to rent in?
Merced is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,055/mo vs $1,856/mo in San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad. That's $801/mo or $9,612/year more expensive in San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad (76% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Merced vs San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Merced is $1,055/month. In San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,856/month.
How do incomes compare between Merced and San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad?
The median household income in Merced is $60,958/year. In San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad it is $126,765/year. San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Merced vs San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Merced is $696/mo. In San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad it is $1,238/mo.