Redlands is considered moderately expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,950 and slightly higher than average grocery costs.
Imagine you’ve just moved to Redlands, California. As you unpack boxes in your new 2-bedroom apartment, the reality of your monthly expenses starts to sink in. Rent alone is nearly $2,000, and you still need to budget for utilities, groceries, and other essentials. Welcome to the cost of living in Redlands in 2025.
For those considering a move to this charming Southern California city, it’s crucial to understand the true expenses of day-to-day life. From housing to food to transportation, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what it costs to live comfortably in Redlands.
Housing Costs in Redlands
Housing is typically the biggest line item in any household budget, and Redlands is no exception. In 2025, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Redlands hovers around $1,950 per month. For those looking to purchase a home, the median price for a 3-bedroom house is approximately $550,000.
It’s worth noting that housing costs can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood and property type. For example, rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ranges from about $1,700 in South Redlands to over $2,200 in the more upscale areas near the University of Redlands.
Many neighborhoods in Redlands also have Homeowners Associations (HOAs), which can add an additional $200 to $400 per month to housing expenses for homeowners. Before renting or buying, be sure to factor in any HOA fees for a complete picture of your monthly housing costs.
Utilities and Energy Bills
In addition to rent or mortgage payments, Redlands residents must budget for basic utilities like electricity, gas, water, and trash service. For a typical 2-bedroom apartment, residents can expect to pay around:
- Electricity: $120/month
- Gas: $40/month
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $80/month
- Internet: $60/month
Keep in mind that electricity costs can spike during the hot summer months, as air conditioning is a must in Redlands. Budget an extra $50 to $100 per month for cooling costs from June through September.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Feeding a household is another significant expense, and grocery costs in Redlands trend slightly higher than the national average. For a single person, budget around $350 per month for groceries and household essentials. A couple can expect to spend about $650, while a family of four should plan for $1,100 or more.
To put this in perspective, a gallon of milk in Redlands typically costs about $3.50, a dozen eggs around $3, and a pound of chicken breast about $4.50. Dining out is also relatively expensive, with a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant easily topping $60 with tax and tip.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Redlands homeowners pay property tax at a rate of 1.1% of their home’s assessed value. For a $550,000 home, that equates to about $6,050 per year or $504 per month.
California also has a high state income tax rate, ranging from 1% to 12.3% depending on income level. For a household earning the median income in Redlands (around $80,000), the state income tax rate would be 6%, amounting to about $400 per month.
Sales tax in Redlands is 7.75%, which applies to most purchases other than groceries and prescription drugs. Vehicle registration fees are also higher in California than in many other states, averaging $200 or more per year.
Monthly Budget Summary
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,950 | $1,950 | $2,500 |
| Utilities | $300 | $350 | $450 |
| Groceries & Essentials | $350 | $650 | $1,100 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Healthcare | $250 | $500 | $800 |
| Taxes & Fees | $500 | $900 | $1,200 |
| Total Monthly Expenses | $3,550 | $4,650 | $6,450 |
Based on these estimates, a comfortable lifestyle in Redlands may require a gross monthly income (pre-tax) of around $4,200 for a single person, $5,500 for a couple, or $7,700 for a family of four. Of course, actual budgets will vary based on individual circumstances and lifestyle preferences.
Lifestyle Considerations
When evaluating the cost of living in Redlands, it’s important to consider lifestyle factors beyond just the numbers. For many residents, the appeal of Redlands lies in its charming historic downtown, beautiful parks, and proximity to outdoor recreation in the nearby San Bernardino Mountains.
However, these amenities come with tradeoffs. Redlands is a car-dependent city, so residents must factor in the costs of owning and maintaining a vehicle. Traffic and commute times can also be significant, especially for those working in nearby cities like San Bernardino or Riverside.
Housing options also involve tradeoffs. Newer homes and apartments in North Redlands often come with higher price tags and HOA fees, while older homes in South Redlands may be more affordable but require more maintenance and upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Redlands more expensive than other cities in the Inland Empire?
A: Redlands tends to be slightly more expensive than cities like San Bernardino and Fontana, but less costly than upscale areas like Rancho Cucamonga or Claremont.
Q: Are utilities expensive in Redlands?
A: Utility costs in Redlands are generally on par with the national average, but electricity bills can be higher in the summer due to air conditioning needs.
Q: How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Redlands?
A: To live comfortably in Redlands, plan for a gross monthly income (pre-tax) of at least $4,200 for a single person, $5,500 for a couple, or $7,700 for a family of four.
Q: Is Redlands a good place to buy a home?
A: Redlands can be a good place to buy for those who prioritize historic charm and a strong sense of community. However, home prices are relatively high compared to some other Inland Empire cities.
Q: How much should I budget for transportation in Redlands?
A: Transportation costs vary based on your commute and vehicle, but budget at least $200 to $300 per month for gas, maintenance, and car payments.
Q: Are there ways to save money on living costs in Redlands?
A: To reduce living costs, consider housing options in South Redlands, limit dining out, take advantage of free community events, and use cost-saving measures like energy-efficient appliances and low-flow fixtures.
While the cost of living in Redlands is higher than in some neighboring cities, many residents find the quality of life to be worth the expense. By carefully evaluating your budget and priorities, you can determine whether Redlands is the right fit for your lifestyle and financial goals.