Cost of Living in Carlsbad, CA
Population: 114,500 • 2026 Data
$139,326
Median Household Income
+80% vs national
$2,678
Median Monthly Rent
+99% vs national
$1,156,900
Median Home Value
+241% vs national
6.2%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Carlsbad
The median home value in Carlsbad, CA is $1,156,900. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $2,678, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $2,801.
Rent-to-income ratio: 23.1%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Carlsbad, CA is $139,326. The unemployment rate stands at 6.2%, with a labor force of 59,048 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.