Corona is considered moderately expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $2,100 and slightly higher grocery and transportation costs compared to national averages.
Is the true cost of living in Corona higher than you think? Many people are drawn to this growing Inland Empire city for its proximity to Los Angeles and Orange County, but it’s important to understand the full financial picture before making the move. In this article, we’ll break down the major expenses you can expect when living in Corona in 2025, from housing and utilities to groceries and lifestyle considerations.
Housing Costs in Corona
Housing is typically the biggest expense for most households, and Corona is no exception. In 2025, the typical rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Corona ranges from $1,900 to $2,300 per month, with an average around $2,100. Prices can vary depending on the neighborhood and amenities:
- Newer complexes with pools and fitness centers tend to be on the higher end
- Older buildings or those further from the city center may offer lower rents
- Single-family homes for rent are less common but may cost $2,500+ per month
For those looking to purchase a home, the median sale price for a 3-bedroom house in Corona is around $650,000 as of 2025. However, prices can easily exceed $800,000 in more desirable neighborhoods. It’s also common for many communities to have Homeowners Association (HOA) fees, which can add $200-500 per month to your housing costs.
Here’s a quick comparison of typical housing costs in Corona:
| Housing Type | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 2-Bedroom Apartment (Rent) | $1,900 – $2,300 |
| 3-Bedroom House (Mortgage) | $3,200 – $4,000+ |
| HOA Fees | $200 – $500 |
Utilities and Energy Bills
In addition to rent or mortgage payments, residents need to budget for basic utilities like electricity, gas, water, and trash. These costs can add up, especially during the hot summer months when air conditioning is a must. Here’s a rough estimate of what you might expect to pay each month:
- Electricity: $120 – $200
- Gas: $30 – $50
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $80 – $120
- Internet: $50 – $80
Keep in mind that these are just averages, and your actual bills may be higher or lower depending on your usage and the size of your home. Many newer homes in Corona are more energy-efficient, which can help keep utility costs down.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Feeding yourself and your family is another significant part of the cost of living equation. In Corona, you can expect to spend around $400 per month on groceries for a single person, or closer to $1,000 for a family of four. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and occasional meals out.
To give you a sense of local prices, here’s what a typical grocery run might look like:
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.50
- 1 dozen eggs: $3.00
- 1 lb of chicken breast: $4.50
- 1 lb of ground beef: $5.00
- 1 loaf of bread: $2.50
Dining out will cost a bit more in Corona compared to some other parts of the country. A basic meal at a casual restaurant averages around $15 per person, while a nicer dinner for two might run $60 or more.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
California is known for its high taxes, and Corona is no exception. The sales tax rate in the city is 7.75% as of 2025, which gets added to most purchases. If you own a home, you’ll also need to pay property taxes, which average around 1.1% of the assessed value annually.
For a $650,000 home, that translates to over $7,000 per year or nearly $600 per month. Vehicle registration fees are also higher in California than in many other states, so budget accordingly if you plan to own a car.
Monthly Budget Summary
So what does this all mean for your monthly budget? Here’s a sample breakdown of what a typical Corona resident might spend each month:
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $2,000 | $2,500 | $3,500 |
| Utilities | $250 | $350 | $500 |
| Groceries | $400 | $700 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Other Expenses | $500 | $800 | $1,200 |
| Total Monthly Budget | $3,450 | $4,850 | $7,000 |
Keep in mind these figures are just estimates and will vary based on your specific lifestyle and circumstances. To live comfortably in Corona, a single person may need a gross monthly income (pre-tax) of around $4,200, while a couple would want to aim for $5,800 or more. For a family of four, a combined household income of $8,500+ per month is recommended.
Lifestyle Considerations
Of course, the cost of living is just one factor to consider when deciding where to live. Corona offers a suburban lifestyle with relatively easy access to major job centers in Los Angeles and Orange County. Many residents appreciate the newer housing stock and well-regarded schools.
However, the tradeoff is often a longer commute, with drive times of an hour or more not uncommon during peak traffic. Corona also doesn’t have quite as many dining, shopping, or entertainment options compared to larger cities nearby. For some, the lower housing costs in Corona are worth these compromises, while others may prefer a more urban environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Corona more affordable than Los Angeles?
A: In general, yes. Housing costs in Corona are typically 20-30% lower than in most parts of LA, although still above the national average.
Q: Are utilities expensive in Corona?
A: Utility costs in Corona are slightly higher than the national average, mainly due to the need for air conditioning during the hot summer months. However, many newer homes are more energy-efficient.
Q: How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Corona?
A: A good rule of thumb is that your monthly housing costs should not exceed 30% of your gross income. For a $2,000/month apartment, that translates to a salary of around $80,000 per year or $6,700 per month before taxes.
Q: Is Corona a good place to raise a family?
A: Many families are drawn to Corona for its good schools, newer housing options, and relatively safe neighborhoods. However, the higher cost of living compared to some other parts of the country is a factor to consider.
Q: How does the cost of living in Corona compare to nearby cities?
A: Corona is generally less expensive than coastal cities like Irvine or Newport Beach but pricier than some inland areas such as Riverside or Moreno Valley. It falls somewhere in the middle for the region.
While the cost of living in Corona may be higher than the national average, many residents find that the combination of suburban amenities, newer homes, and proximity to major employment centers makes it an attractive place to call home. By understanding the various expenses and lifestyle factors involved, you can make an informed decision about whether Corona fits your budget and preferences.