Rancho Cucamonga is considered moderately expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $2,100 and slightly higher housing costs than the national average.
Is the true cost of living in Rancho Cucamonga higher than you think? For many considering a move to this Los Angeles suburb, getting a handle on the real monthly expenses is essential. From housing to groceries to taxes, let’s break down what it takes to live comfortably in Rancho Cucamonga in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living in Rancho Cucamonga. Typical options include apartments, condos, and single-family homes. Rents for a 2-bedroom apartment range from $1,900 to $2,300 per month, with an average around $2,100. Buying a 3-bedroom house will usually fall between $550,000 and $750,000.
Costs can vary significantly by neighborhood. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Victoria Gardens: Higher-end apartments and condos, $2,200-$2,800/mo
- Alta Loma: Suburban homes, $650K-$900K to buy, limited rentals
- Etiwanda: Mix of older and newer homes, $500K-$750K, some apartments around $2,000/mo
Many neighborhoods have Homeowners Associations (HOAs), which can add $200-$400 per month. Factor this in if you’re considering buying a home.
Utilities and Energy Bills
Basic utilities in Rancho Cucamonga include electric, gas, water, and trash. Expect to pay around $200-$250 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment, or $300-$400 for a house. Summer cooling costs can spike electric bills.
| Utility | Apartment | House |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | $80-$120 | $120-$200 |
| Gas | $30-$50 | $50-$80 |
| Water/Sewer/Trash | $60-$80 | $80-$120 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries in Rancho Cucamonga run about $400-$500 per month for a single person, or $800-$1,000 for a family of four. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and occasional dining out.
A typical basket of goods might include:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.75
- Dozen eggs: $3.00
- Pound of chicken: $4.50
Prices are slightly higher than the national average, but in line with other Los Angeles suburbs. Discount grocers like Aldi can help trim costs.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Rancho Cucamonga’s property tax rate is 1.1%, which is slightly lower than the LA County average of 1.16%. For a $600,000 home, annual property taxes would be around $6,600.
California has a 7.25% base sales tax rate, with some cities adding more. In Rancho Cucamonga, the total sales tax is 7.75% – so budget accordingly for daily purchases.
| Tax | Rate |
|---|---|
| Property Tax | 1.1% |
| Sales Tax | 7.75% |
| State Income Tax | 1% – 12.3% |
Summary Budget Table
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | $1,500 | $2,100 | $2,800 |
| Utilities | $200 | $250 | $400 |
| Groceries | $400 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Healthcare | $200 | $500 | $800 |
| Monthly Total (Gross) | $2,600 | $3,950 | $5,800 |
Keep in mind these are pre-tax figures. With California’s income tax ranging from 1% to 12.3%, factor in your effective tax rate for take-home pay.
Lifestyle Considerations
Rancho Cucamonga offers a suburban lifestyle with relatively easy access to LA job centers. Typical commute times range from 30-60 minutes. The Metrolink provides public transit options to cut down on driving.
Homes in Rancho Cucamonga are a mix of older ranch-style houses and newer developments. Lot and home sizes tend to be larger than in LA proper, making it appealing for families.
The city has ample parks, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation. Victoria Gardens is a popular shopping and dining hub. While costs are higher than inland suburbs, Rancho Cucamonga offers a good balance of amenities and affordability compared to coastal areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What salary do you need to live comfortably in Rancho Cucamonga?
A: For a single person, a gross income of $2,600/month ($31,200/year) covers basic expenses. Couples should aim for $3,950/month ($47,400/year), and families around $5,800/month ($69,600/year). - Q: Is Rancho Cucamonga cheaper than Los Angeles?
A: Yes, Rancho Cucamonga is generally 10-20% less expensive than Los Angeles, particularly in housing. However, it’s pricier than further-out suburbs like San Bernardino or Ontario. - Q: Are utilities expensive in Rancho Cucamonga?
A: Utilities are slightly higher than the national average, mainly due to summer cooling costs. Expect to pay $200-$400/month depending on home size. - Q: How much is property tax in Rancho Cucamonga?
A: The property tax rate in Rancho Cucamonga is 1.1%. For a $600,000 home, that equates to $6,600 per year. - Q: What’s the sales tax rate in Rancho Cucamonga?
A: Rancho Cucamonga has a 7.75% sales tax, which includes the California base rate of 7.25% plus a 0.5% local tax. - Q: Is Rancho Cucamonga a good place to raise a family?
A: Many consider Rancho Cucamonga a family-friendly suburb, with good schools, parks, and larger homes compared to LA. However, costs are higher than the national average.