Santee vs Chula Vista: Cost of Living Comparison (2025 Update)

Santee, CA vs. Chula Vista, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

Imagine two families, the Garcias and the Johnsons, both looking to relocate within San Diego County. The Garcias, a family of four, are considering a move from Chula Vista to Santee for more space. Meanwhile, the Johnsons, a young couple, are debating between renting a 1-bedroom in Santee or Chula Vista to be closer to work.

For the Garcias, a typical 3-bedroom home in Santee runs about $2,800 per month, while a similar home in Chula Vista averages $3,200. Groceries for their family of four cost around $1,100 in Santee compared to $1,200 in Chula Vista.

The Johnsons find that a 1-bedroom apartment rents for approximately $1,900 in Santee and $2,100 in Chula Vista. As a young, active couple, they budget $600 for groceries and dining out each month, which goes a bit further in Santee.

This cost of living comparison between Santee and Chula Vista is perfect for families like the Garcias and Johnsons who are relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of living in these two cities in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax) for clarity.

Storefronts and homes along a quiet neighborhood street in Santee, California at dusk. — Santee offers a quiet suburban lifestyle, with local businesses interspersed in residential areas. Housing costs are generally lower than other parts of San Diego County.

1. Housing Costs

Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare between Santee and Chula Vista:

Housing Type	Santee	Chula Vista
2BR Apartment	$2,300	$2,500
3BR House	$2,800	$3,200

🏆 Winner: Santee. Housing costs, both for renting and buying, tend to be 10-15% lower in Santee compared to Chula Vista.

2. Utilities and Energy Costs

Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, with Santee averaging about $180 per month for a typical household and Chula Vista around $200. Both cities experience mild winters and warm summers, so heating and cooling needs are comparable.

🏆 Winner: Santee, but only by a slight margin. Utility costs are only marginally lower in Santee.

3. Groceries and Daily Expenses

A small, naturally lit living room with a couch and bookshelf in an apartment in Chula Vista. — While housing costs more in Chula Vista compared to Santee, apartments are still relatively affordable, especially for young professionals. Many appreciate Chula Vista’s walkable neighborhoods and coastal location.

Grocery costs are quite standardized across San Diego County. A typical family of four might spend $1,100 per month on groceries in Santee, while the same groceries would cost around $1,200 in Chula Vista. Dining out and entertainment costs are also comparable, with Santee offering slightly lower prices at local restaurants and bars.

🏆 Winner: Santee. While the difference isn’t drastic, Santee does offer some savings on everyday expenses like groceries and dining out.

4. Taxes and Fees

Both Santee and Chula Vista have comparable property tax rates around 1.1% of assessed value. However, Chula Vista’s slightly higher home prices mean a typical homeowner will pay more in annual property taxes there. City service fees and HOA costs are generally similar between the two cities.

🏆 Winner: Santee. With lower home values, property taxes will be lower for a comparable home in Santee vs Chula Vista.

5. Cost Summary Table

Category	Santee	Chula Vista
Housing (3BR)	$2,800	$3,200
Utilities	$180	$200
Groceries	$1,100	$1,200
Transportation	$500	$450
Taxes & Fees	$600	$700
Misc Expenses	$800	$850
Estimated Monthly Total	$5,980	$6,600

6. Lifestyle Fit

While Santee offers lower living costs overall, Chula Vista has some lifestyle advantages. Chula Vista is about 7°F cooler than Santee in the summer months, thanks to its coastal location. Chula Vista also offers more walkable neighborhoods and public transit options. However, Santee provides more square footage for the money, lower population density, and a quieter suburban feel that appeals to many families.

7. FAQ

Q: Is Santee more affordable than Chula Vista?
A: Yes, Santee has a lower overall cost of living, with more affordable housing, utilities, and daily expenses.

Q: Which city has lower rent prices?
A: Santee has lower rent prices, with a typical 2-bedroom apartment costing about $200 less per month than in Chula Vista.

Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Santee has lower home prices, with a typical 3-bedroom house costing about $400 less per month than a comparable home in Chula Vista.

8. Conclusion

For those prioritizing affordability, Santee comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. A household moving from Chula Vista to Santee might save $400 per month on housing alone. However, Chula Vista may still be the better choice for those who value a coastal climate, walkability, and public transit.

Ultimately, the choice between Santee and Chula Vista depends on your specific budget, lifestyle, and preferences. Be sure to check out our other resources to help with your decision: