Merced vs San Luis Obispo
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Merced is 54% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,055/mo vs $1,623/mo in San Luis Obispo — saving $6,816/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Merced | San Luis Obispo | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $696 | $1,065 | $369 |
| 1 Bedroom | $865 | $1,360 | $495 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,055 | $1,623 | $568 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,328 | $2,039 | $711 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 | $2,372 | $912 |
| Median Income | $60,958 | $94,761 | $33,803 |
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 Luis Obispo
- Studio
- $1,065/mo
- 1 BR
- $1,360/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,623/mo
- 3 BR
- $2,039/mo
- 4 BR
- $2,372/mo
- Median Income
- $94,761/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Merced or San Luis Obispo cheaper to rent in?
Merced is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,055/mo vs $1,623/mo in San Luis Obispo. That's $568/mo or $6,816/year more expensive in San Luis Obispo (54% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Merced vs San Luis Obispo?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Merced is $1,055/month. In San Luis Obispo, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,623/month.
How do incomes compare between Merced and San Luis Obispo?
The median household income in Merced is $60,958/year. In San Luis Obispo it is $94,761/year. San Luis Obispo has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Merced vs San Luis Obispo?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Merced is $696/mo. In San Luis Obispo it is $1,065/mo.