Menifee is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,750 and slightly lower utility costs compared to the national average.
Housing Costs in Menifee
Housing is the biggest expense for most Menifee residents. Typical housing options include single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. Prices vary based on neighborhood, property type, and size.
For renters, a 2-bedroom apartment in Menifee averages around $1,750 per month as of 2025. Prices range from $1,500 in more affordable areas up to $2,000+ in newer developments or desirable neighborhoods. Renting a 3-bedroom single-family home costs $2,200-$2,800 monthly.
Homebuyers can expect to pay a median price of $450,000-$550,000 for a 3-bedroom house in Menifee. Newer construction and gated communities command higher prices, while older homes may be found under $400,000. Some neighborhoods have HOA fees of $200-$400 per month in addition to the mortgage.
Utilities and Energy Bills
Basic utility costs in Menifee are slightly lower than the national average. Expect to pay around $150-$200 per month for electricity, $30-$50 for gas, $60-$80 for water, and $20-$30 for trash collection for a 2-bedroom apartment. High summer temperatures can push cooling costs over $250 in peak months.
| Utility | Typical Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $150 – $200 |
| Gas | $30 – $50 |
| Water | $60 – $80 |
| Trash | $20 – $30 |
Groceries and Food
Grocery costs in Menifee are on par with the national average. Plan to budget around $300-$400 per month per person for food, household items, and modest dining out. A gallon of milk is about $3.50, a loaf of bread $2.50, and a dozen eggs $2.00.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant runs about $12-$15, while a 3-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant averages $50-$70. Fast food combo meals are around $8-$10.
Taxes and Fees
Menifee’s property tax rate is around 1.25% of assessed value, slightly higher than the national average but lower than many California cities. For a $500,000 home, annual property taxes would be approximately $6,250.
California has a base sales tax rate of 7.25%. With local taxes, Menifee’s total sales tax rate is 8.75% as of 2025. Vehicle registration fees are 0.65% of the vehicle’s value, plus a base fee of $46-$70 depending on the type of vehicle.
Monthly Cost of Living
| Household | Estimated Monthly Budget | Comfortable Lifestyle Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Single adult | $2,400 – $2,800 | $3,200 – $3,600 |
| Couple | $3,400 – $4,000 | $4,500 – $5,200 |
| Family of 4 | $4,800 – $5,500 | $6,500 – $7,500 |
Note: These figures are estimates of gross monthly income (pre-tax) needed to afford basic expenses and live comfortably in Menifee.
Lifestyle Considerations
While Menifee offers relative affordability for a California suburb, tradeoffs exist between cost, commute times, and conveniences. Neighborhoods closer to I-215 provide quicker access to job centers but may have smaller lots or higher density.
Homes in the Sun City area tend to be older but offer golf course living and active adult amenities at lower price points. The Menifee Lakes and Audie Murphy Ranch areas feature newer construction and more community parks but come with higher costs.
Compared to nearby cities like Temecula or Murrieta, Menifee offers a mix of established and developing areas, appealing to both families and retirees seeking an affordable suburban lifestyle. However, commute times to major employment hubs can exceed 40 minutes each way.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Menifee?
A gross income of at least $3,200/month for a single adult or $4,500/month for a couple allows for a comfortable lifestyle in Menifee as of 2025. - Is Menifee cheaper than other cities in Riverside County?
Menifee is relatively affordable compared to cities like Temecula or Corona. Housing costs are lower but still above the national average. - What are the top 3 costs that surprise newcomers to Menifee?
New residents are often surprised by 1) HOA fees in newer neighborhoods, 2) high cooling bills in summer, and 3) added costs of commuting to job centers. - Are there budget-friendly neighborhoods in Menifee?
The Sun City area and parts of central Menifee offer older homes at lower price points. Renting in these areas is also more affordable. - How much should I budget for utilities in Menifee?
Plan for $250-$400 per month for basic utilities for a 2-bedroom apartment, with costs rising in summer due to air conditioning.