Salaries in Sunnyvale, CA

Updated on Apr 14, 2025
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What is the average salary in Sunnyvale, CA?

The average salary in Sunnyvale, CA is $128,518 per year.

Sunnyvale, CA, offers a robust job market with competitive salaries across various industries. With an average yearly salary of $128,518, professionals in this tech hub can expect attractive compensation packages. The salary distribution reveals a diverse range of earnings, from $37,550 to $253,500, reflecting the variety of roles available. Whether you're in the early stages of your career or a seasoned professional, Sunnyvale provides ample opportunities for salary growth and financial stability. The data indicates a strong demand for skilled workers, making it an ideal location for job seekers aiming to advance their careers.

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What are the best paying jobs in Sunnyvale, CA?

Sunnyvale, CA, offers a range of high-paying job opportunities, particularly in tech and engineering sectors. Wireless Engineers, Solutions Architects, and Machine Learning Engineers lead the list with average salaries exceeding $185,000. These roles are in high demand, reflecting the city's robust tech ecosystem and potential for career growth.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Sunnyvale, CA, highlighting Wireless Engineer with the highest at $200,314 and Principal Engineer with the lowest at $203,928.
  1. Wireless Engineer
    Average Salary: $200,314
    Design and develop wireless communication systems for leading tech companies. Work with cutting-edge technologies to enhance connectivity and performance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration.
    Find Wireless Engineer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA


  2. Solutions Architect
    Average Salary: $195,747
    Create and implement architectural solutions for complex business challenges. Work closely with clients and stakeholders to understand their needs. Utilize your expertise to design scalable and efficient systems.
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  3. Machine Learning Engineer
    Average Salary: $195,212
    Develop and deploy machine learning models to solve real-world problems. Work with large datasets and advanced algorithms to improve business processes. Collaborate with data scientists and engineers to refine models.
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  4. Staff Engineer
    Average Salary: $190,694
    Lead engineering teams and projects to deliver high-quality solutions. Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance. Drive innovation and efficiency in software development processes.
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  5. Firmware Engineer
    Average Salary: $190,507
    Design and develop firmware for embedded systems. Work with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration. Optimize performance and reliability of electronic devices.
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  6. Architect
    Average Salary: $189,695
    Design and oversee the construction of buildings and structures. Collaborate with clients, contractors, and other professionals. Ensure projects meet design specifications and regulatory requirements.
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  7. Integration Engineer
    Average Salary: $189,293
    Integrate various systems and components to ensure smooth operation. Work with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve integration issues. Optimize system performance and reliability.
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  8. Engineering Designer
    Average Salary: $188,992
    Create and refine product designs using CAD software. Work closely with engineering and manufacturing teams. Ensure designs meet functional, aesthetic, and regulatory requirements.
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  9. Product Manager
    Average Salary: $185,641
    Lead the development and launch of new products. Work with cross-functional teams to define product vision and strategy. Gather and analyze market data to drive product decisions.
    Find Product Manager jobs in Sunnyvale, CA


  10. Principal Engineer
    Average Salary: $203,928
    Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams. Drive innovation and strategic initiatives. Collaborate with stakeholders to define and achieve engineering goals.
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What are the best paying jobs in Sunnyvale, CA without a degree?

Sunnyvale offers a range of high-paying jobs that do not require a degree, making them accessible to many job seekers. Among these, roles such as Line Cook, Dishwasher, and Server Assistant stand out, with average salaries ranging from $37,000 to $46,000. These positions provide a solid income and valuable experience in a thriving industry.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Sunnyvale, CA without a degree, highlighting Dishwasher with the highest at $41,957 and Line Cook with the lowest at $45,601.
  1. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $41,957
    In local restaurants, dishwashers clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. They work in fast-paced environments, often at Amano and The Cheesecake Factory.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Sunnyvale, CA


  2. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $41,635
    Server assistants support servers in busy dining establishments. They take orders, serve food, and ensure a smooth dining experience. They work in restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory and Amano.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in Sunnyvale, CA


  3. Barista
    Average Salary: $41,380
    Baristas prepare and serve coffee and other beverages in cafes. They work in popular spots like Starbucks and Peet's Coffee, where they interact with customers to create a welcoming atmosphere.
    Find Barista jobs in Sunnyvale, CA


  4. Server
    Average Salary: $40,955
    Servers take orders, serve food, and ensure customers have a pleasant dining experience. They work in restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory and Amano, where they interact with customers and manage tables efficiently.
    Find Server jobs in Sunnyvale, CA


  5. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $40,734
    Groundskeepers maintain the grounds of parks, schools, and other public spaces. They perform tasks like mowing, trimming, and planting. They work for local government agencies and private companies.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Sunnyvale, CA


  6. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $39,678
    Service team members provide customer service in various settings. They assist customers, handle inquiries, and ensure a positive experience. They work in retail stores like Target and Walmart.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Sunnyvale, CA


  7. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $37,252
    Kitchen team members assist in food preparation and cooking. They work in restaurants like Amano and The Cheesecake Factory, where they help maintain a clean and efficient kitchen environment.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Sunnyvale, CA


  8. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $37,185
    Housekeepers clean and maintain rooms in hotels and other lodging facilities. They ensure a comfortable and welcoming environment for guests. They work in hotels like Hilton and Marriott.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Sunnyvale, CA


  9. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $45,601
    Line cooks prepare food in fast-paced kitchen environments. They work in restaurants like Amano and The Cheesecake Factory, where they follow recipes and ensure food quality and safety.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Sunnyvale, CA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Sunnyvale, CA?

Sunnyvale, CA, is home to several high-paying companies, with Apple leading the pack at an average salary of $206,114. Other top employers in the area include DoorDash, Uber, and SpaceX, all offering competitive compensation packages.
Graph displaying company salaries in Sunnyvale, CA, highlighting DoorDash with the highest at $199,284 and Apple with the lowest at $206,114.
  1. DoorDash
    Average Salary: $199,284
    DoorDash is a leading food delivery service, offering a platform for customers to order from local restaurants.


  2. Uber
    Average Salary: $189,103
    Uber is a global transportation network company, providing ride-sharing, food delivery, and freight services.


  3. Walmart
    Average Salary: $187,799
    Walmart is a multinational retail corporation, offering a wide range of products and services through its stores and online platform.


  4. Sam's Club
    Average Salary: $181,206
    Sam's Club is a membership-based warehouse club, offering bulk products and services to its members.


  5. SpaceX
    Average Salary: $173,781
    SpaceX is a private aerospace manufacturer and space transportation company, known for its innovative rocket technology.


  6. Fortinet
    Average Salary: $164,073
    Fortinet is a cybersecurity company, providing network security solutions to protect businesses and individuals.


  7. Juniper Networks
    Average Salary: $160,206
    Juniper Networks is a leading provider of networking and security solutions, serving businesses and service providers worldwide.


  8. Intuitive (Intuitive Surgical)
    Average Salary: $160,070
    Intuitive is a medical technology company, specializing in the development and manufacturing of robotic-assisted surgical systems.


  9. Amazon.com
    Average Salary: $150,868
    Amazon is a global e-commerce and cloud computing giant, offering a wide range of products and services to customers worldwide.


  10. Apple
    Average Salary: $206,114
    Apple is a technology company, known for its innovative products and services, including the iPhone, iPad, and Mac computers.

How does the cost of living in Sunnyvale, CA compare to the national average?

Sunnyvale, CA, exhibits a significantly higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 165. This represents a 65% increase over the national benchmark of 100.
Cost of living comparison graph for Sunnyvale, CA vs. Nationwide: housing 195% higher, groceries 25% higher, utilities 5% higher, transportation 25% higher, healthcare 15% higher, miscellaneous 30% higher.

Sunnyvale, CA, often recognized as a tech hub, boasts a cost of living that significantly exceeds the nationwide average. Housing costs in Sunnyvale are notably high, with an index of 295, which is 195% higher than the national average. This substantial increase reflects the competitive real estate market in the area. Groceries, another essential expense, also show a higher cost, with an index of 125, indicating a 25% increase over the national average. Utilities, however, remain relatively close to the average, with an index of 105, which is 5% higher.


Transportation costs in Sunnyvale are comparable to the national average, with an index of 125, indicating no change. Healthcare costs, while essential, are slightly above the national average, with an index of 115, representing a 15% increase. Miscellaneous expenses, which include items like clothing and entertainment, also show a modest increase, with an index of 130, which is 30% higher than the national average. These figures highlight the overall higher cost of living in Sunnyvale, making it crucial for job seekers to consider these factors when planning a move.

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Pasadena, CA
Pasadena, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 121. This indicates that living expenses in Pasadena are 21% greater than the national average.
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Pasadena, TX
Pasadena, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 94.4% of the nationwide average, making it a relatively affordable place to live. This index reflects a balanced distribution across various categories, including housing, groceries, and utilities, offering a cost-effective living option for professionals.
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Pearland, TX
Pearland, TX, presents a cost of living index that is 98% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower cost of living. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life.
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Pembroke Pines, FL
Pembroke Pines, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also slightly exceed the national average, while utilities and healthcare remain close to it.
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Pflugerville, TX
Pflugerville, TX, presents a cost of living index that is 95% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower overall cost of living. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life.
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Pinellas Park, FL
Pinellas Park, FL, boasts a cost of living index that is 97% of the nationwide average, reflecting a slightly lower overall cost of living. Notably, the housing and utilities sectors contribute to this favorable comparison, with indices of 95% and 96%, respectively.
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Plano, TX
Plano, TX, exhibits a cost of living index of 105, which is 5% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This suggests that overall expenses in Plano are slightly above the national standard.
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Plantation, FL
Plantation, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 12% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also slightly exceed the national average, while utilities and healthcare remain relatively close to it.
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Pomona, CA
Pomona, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 52% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and utilities also show slight increases, while healthcare costs remain below the national average.
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Pompano Beach, FL
Pompano Beach, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also surpass the national average, while utilities and healthcare remain slightly below.
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Puyallup, WA
Puyallup, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and miscellaneous expenses also surpass the national average, while utilities and transportation remain relatively close to the benchmark.
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Quincy, MA
Quincy, MA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 125%. This indicates that residents can expect to spend 25% more across various living expenses.
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Rancho Cordova, CA
The cost of living index in Rancho Cordova, CA, stands at 115%, surpassing the nationwide average by 15%. This indicates that living expenses in Rancho Cordova are generally higher than the national average.
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Redmond, WA
Redmond, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 45% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories such as groceries and miscellaneous expenses also surpass the national average, though to a lesser extent.
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Renton, WA
The cost of living index in Renton, WA, stands at 120, which is 20% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This elevated index reflects higher expenses in various sectors, including housing and healthcare.
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Richardson, TX
The cost of living index in Richardson, TX, stands at 105, which is 5% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that overall expenses in Richardson are slightly above the national average.
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Riverside, CA
Riverside, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 23% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. This makes Riverside a noteworthy location for job seekers considering the overall living expenses.
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Roseville, CA
Roseville, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with a cost of living index of 128. This indicates that living expenses in Roseville are 28% above the national average.
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Round Rock, TX
The cost of living index in Round Rock, TX, stands at 101, slightly above the nationwide average of 100. Housing, groceries, and healthcare costs are notably higher, while utilities and transportation costs are relatively lower.
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Sacramento, CA
Sacramento, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Despite this, other categories like groceries and utilities remain relatively close to the national average.
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Sammamish, WA
Sammamish, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 72% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by a 72% increase in housing costs. Other categories like groceries and utilities also show above-average expenses, making it a significant consideration for job seekers.
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San Antonio, TX
San Antonio, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 92% of the nationwide average, making it a more affordable option for many professional job seekers. This index reflects lower housing costs and competitive prices across other essential categories.
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San Diego, CA
San Diego, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 46% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also surpass the national average, contributing to the overall higher living expenses.
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San Jose, CA
San Jose, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 139.8. This represents a 39.8% increase over the national average of 100.
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San Marcos, CA
San Marcos, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 118. Housing costs notably stand at 62% above the national average, making it a significant factor in the city's elevated cost of living.
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San Marcos, TX
San Marcos, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 94% of the nationwide average, reflecting a generally affordable living environment. This index, derived from housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses, positions San Marcos as a competitive choice for cost-conscious professionals.
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Sanford, FL
Sanford, FL, boasts a cost of living index that is 95% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower cost of living in this area. This makes Sanford an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle without compromising on quality.
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Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara, CA, boasts a cost of living index that is 189.9% of the nationwide average, reflecting significantly higher expenses, particularly in housing. This elevated index underscores the importance of considering these costs when planning a move to the area.
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Santa Clarita, CA
Santa Clarita, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 116. This indicates that living expenses in Santa Clarita are 16% above the national average.
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Schertz, TX
Schertz, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 96% of the nationwide average, making it a slightly more affordable option for professional job seekers. Notably, housing costs in Schertz are 5% below the national average, offering a potential advantage for those relocating.
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Seattle, WA
Seattle, WA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 128. This indicates that living expenses in Seattle are approximately 28% greater than the national average.
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Shoreline, WA
Shoreline, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 165% of the nationwide average in housing, reflecting a significant premium. Other categories like groceries and transportation also surpass the average, with indices at 110% and 120%, respectively.
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Somerville, MA
Somerville, MA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 17.3% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and utilities remain close to the national average, making Somerville a competitive option for those prioritizing specific living expenses.
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Spokane Valley, WA
Spokane Valley, WA, presents a cost of living index of 98, which is slightly below the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Spokane Valley are generally 2% lower than the national average.
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Spokane, WA
Spokane, WA, presents a cost of living index that is 90% of the nationwide average, indicating a relatively affordable living environment for job seekers. This index reflects lower costs in housing and miscellaneous expenses, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
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Springfield, MA
Springfield, MA, boasts a cost of living index that is 91% of the nationwide average, indicating a relatively affordable living environment for professional job seekers. Notably, housing costs are 22% below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly housing.
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Sugar Land, TX
The cost of living index in Sugar Land, TX, stands at 99, slightly below the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Sugar Land are nearly on par with the national average.
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Tacoma, WA
Tacoma, WA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 110. This indicates that living expenses in Tacoma are 10% above the national average.
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Tallahassee, FL
The cost of living index in Tallahassee, FL, stands at 91, which is 1% below the nationwide average of 100. This slight decrease suggests that living expenses in Tallahassee are marginally more affordable than the average American city.
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Tampa, FL
Tampa, FL, boasts a cost of living index that is 96% of the nationwide average, making it a relatively affordable place to live. Housing, groceries, and miscellaneous costs are slightly below the national average, while transportation costs are slightly above.
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The Colony, TX
The Colony, TX, boasts a cost of living index of 95, which is 5% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable living environment.
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The Woodlands, TX
The Woodlands, TX, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation remain slightly below the national average.
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Torrance, CA
The cost of living index in Torrance, CA, stands at 138, surpassing the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Torrance are 38% higher than the national average.
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Tukwila, WA
Tukwila, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 34% higher than the nationwide average in housing, while other categories like groceries and healthcare remain relatively close to the national average, making it a balanced consideration for job seekers.
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Vancouver, WA
Vancouver, WA's cost of living index stands at 98, slightly below the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Vancouver are generally 2% less than the national average.
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Vista, CA
The cost of living index in Vista, CA, stands at 124, which is 24% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This elevated index reflects higher expenses, particularly in housing, which is 79% above the national average.
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Westfield, MA
Westfield, MA, presents a cost of living index that is 98% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower overall cost of living. Housing and miscellaneous expenses are notably lower, while utilities and healthcare costs are marginally higher.
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Weston, FL
Weston, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 15% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also show modest increases, while utilities and healthcare remain close to the national average.
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Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA, presents a cost of living index that is 99% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower cost of living in most areas. Notably, housing and utilities are below the national average, while groceries and transportation exceed it.
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There are 2,391 job openings in Sunnyvale, CA, today!

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Sunnyvale, CA
2,391 job openings