Hemet, CA vs. Ontario, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Deciding between Hemet and Ontario, California in 2025? This cost of living comparison breaks down the key differences to help you choose the best fit for your lifestyle and budget. We’ll look at housing, utilities, groceries, and other essential expenses.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and home prices compare in Hemet vs Ontario:
| Housing Type | Hemet | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,450 | $2,100 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $450,000 | $650,000 |
🏆 Winner: Hemet. Housing costs an average of 30% less in Hemet compared to Ontario.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills also impact your monthly budget. In Hemet, expect to pay around $180 per month for a 2BR apartment. Ontario runs slightly higher at $210 monthly due to hotter summers and greater AC use.
🏆 Winner: Hemet. While both cities have high summer costs, Hemet saves $30/month on average.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food and everyday items cost about the same in Hemet and Ontario. Budget $400-500 per month for groceries for a couple. Eating out runs $15-20 per meal at casual spots in both cities.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and dining costs are nearly identical.
Taxes and Fees
California charges high income taxes statewide, but some local differences emerge:
- Hemet’s property tax rate is 1.15% vs 1.25% in Ontario
- Ontario charges 0.25% higher sales tax on purchases
- Hemet has lower car registration fees
🏆 Winner: Hemet. Lower property and sales tax add up to hundreds in yearly savings.
Cost of Living in Hemet vs Ontario
| Expense | Hemet | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $210 |
| Groceries | $450 | $450 |
| Transportation | $300 | $275 |
| Misc | $500 | $550 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,880 | $3,585 |
Lifestyle Fit
Hemet offers a quieter, slower pace of life with more space between neighbors. Ontario sits 15°F hotter on average in July and August. But Ontario has better walkability and public transit for car-free living.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hemet more affordable than Ontario?
Yes, Hemet has a lower overall cost of living, mainly due to cheaper housing. See our full breakdown of living costs in Hemet.
Which city has lower rent?
Hemet rents average 30% less than comparable apartments in Ontario. A couple can rent a nice 2BR for around $1,450.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Hemet’s median home price of $450,000 is $200K less than Ontario. Use our Hemet monthly cost calculator to estimate your housing budget.
The Verdict
While Ontario has some appealing amenities, Hemet comes out ahead on overall affordability. A household moving from Ontario to Hemet could easily save $500 or more per month on core living costs.
Budget-conscious families, retirees, and remote workers may prefer Hemet’s lower-cost lifestyle. But Ontario remains attractive for commuters and those who value denser suburban amenities. Ultimately, both cities offer a slice of Inland Empire living at a lower cost than coastal SoCal.