Average Cost of Living in California 2011

The state of California accounts for a little more than 9% of the total population of the US. The average cost of living (COL) in California for 2011 is $5,000 per month, which is above the national average of $4,500. In general, the COL is determined by the average cost of housing, rent, food and tuition. The average cost of living differs from one state to another and also between cities within California. For instance, the average cost of living in Los Angeles is considerably higher than in Visalia. Health insurance and total taxes in California are among the highest in the country. The average housing cost in California is about $500,000, whereas the average rent is $1,500.