San Bernardino, CA vs. Riverside, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: San Bernardino vs Riverside. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of San Bernardino vs Riverside in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest expense when comparing the cost of living between cities. Here’s how San Bernardino and Riverside stack up for common housing options:
| Housing Type | San Bernardino | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,700 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $550,000 |
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino. Housing costs an estimated 15-20% less in San Bernardino compared to Riverside for both renting and buying.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are a significant monthly expense. San Bernardino and Riverside have fairly similar utility costs, but there are a few differences:
- Average electric bill: $110 in San Bernardino vs. $120 in Riverside
- Average water bill: $70 in San Bernardino vs. $75 in Riverside
- Average natural gas bill: $40 in San Bernardino vs. $45 in Riverside
Both cities offer off-peak utility plans that can help reduce costs. Riverside also has slightly higher fees for trash and recycling services.
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino has a slight edge on utility costs, with bills averaging about 5-10% lower than Riverside.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
The cost of groceries, dining out, and everyday goods is quite comparable between San Bernardino and Riverside. Expect to spend around $400-500 per month on groceries for a family of two in either city.
Restaurant prices are also similar, although San Bernardino has a few more affordable casual eateries. A meal for two averages about $40 at a mid-range restaurant in both cities.
🏆 Winner: It’s a tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly identical in San Bernardino and Riverside.
4. Taxes and Fees
California has relatively high income taxes statewide, but there are some differences in local taxes and fees between San Bernardino and Riverside:
- Sales tax: 7.75% in San Bernardino vs. 8.75% in Riverside
- Property tax rate: 1.15% in San Bernardino vs. 1.25% in Riverside
- Vehicle registration fees: $200 in San Bernardino vs. $225 in Riverside
In San Bernardino, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash. Riverside has more public transportation options, which can offset vehicle costs for some households.
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino. Lower sales tax, property tax, and vehicle fees give San Bernardino a financial advantage.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | San Bernardino | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 | $1,700 |
| Utilities | $220 | $240 |
| Groceries | $450 | $450 |
| Transportation | $200 | $225 |
| Taxes | 7.75% | 8.75% |
| Misc | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,720 | $3,015 |
These figures are based on gross monthly income (pre-tax) for a typical household. Your actual expenses may vary. See these Monthly Budget Examples for San Bernardino Residents for more details.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While San Bernardino is more affordable overall, Riverside offers a few lifestyle advantages:
- Riverside has more green space and parks
- Riverside’s downtown is more walkable
- Riverside has slightly shorter average commute times
However, San Bernardino’s lower housing costs may allow for a larger home and yard. San Bernardino also averages about 5°F cooler than Riverside during summer months.
7. FAQ
- Is San Bernardino more affordable than Riverside? Yes, the cost of living is about 10% lower in San Bernardino on average.
- Which city has lower rent? San Bernardino has lower rental prices, with a 2BR apartment costing around $250 less per month than Riverside.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Home prices are roughly 20% lower in San Bernardino. The median price for a 3BR is $450K in San Bernardino vs. $550K in Riverside.
8. Conclusion
Overall, San Bernardino offers a lower cost of living than nearby Riverside, primarily due to more affordable housing. For a typical household, living in San Bernardino is around $300 cheaper per month compared to Riverside.
Budget-conscious families, first-time homebuyers, and retirees may find San Bernardino a particularly good financial fit. However, Riverside’s lifestyle perks could be worth the added cost for some residents.
Considering other California cities? Check out this full Cost of Living in San Bernardino (2025 Guide) to compare San Bernardino to other popular destinations.