How much does the American dream cost in CA? Here’s what you need to earn in 2025

To live comfortably in California in 2025, an annual income exceeding $100,000 is necessary, with specific cities requiring even higher salaries. San Francisco tops the list at $172,340, followed by San Jose at $167,958 and Oakland at $160,162. Los Angeles requires $159,612, while Long Beach and San Diego need $157,613 and $152,369, respectively. The average median income in California is $96,334, highlighting the financial challenges residents face in achieving the American dream.