Fighting Local Inflation
Your bank might advertise a 5.0% yield, but in San Diego, that number is misleading. With inflation averaging ~3% long-term, your money's purchasing power is constantly eroding. This "Silent Tax" means your "Real" rate of return—what you actually keep in buying power—is roughly 1.94% before taxes are even touched.
The Tax Drag
Don't forget the California Department of Revenue. Unlike stock dividends (often taxed lower), bank interest is taxed as ordinary income. In California, you face a combined marginal tax drag (Federal + State) of roughly 29.5%. This reduces your effective yield significantly, meaning you need a higher nominal rate just to break even in real terms.
Compounding Power
Frequency matters. While the rate is king, *how often* that rate is applied can boost your returns. Compounding daily versus annually on a $10k deposit earns you an extra $198 over a decade without lifting a finger. Always look for accounts that compound daily or monthly to maximize growth in San Diego.
Quick Tip: The Rule of 72
Want a quick mental math trick? Use the "Rule of 72." Divide 72 by your interest rate (5). At current rates, your money will double in value approximately 14.4 years. This simple heuristic helps you set realistic timelines for your San Diego savings goals.
Becoming a San Diego Millionaire
To reach $1,000,000 in purchasing power in San Diego (adjusted for local costs and inflation), passive saving isn't enough. You need to save aggressively and invest. A simple savings account is a parking spot for your emergency fund, not the engine for building generational wealth in California.
Common Questions
Tools & Data Verified by the EverydayCalculators Financial Research Team.
Last updated: December 2025.