Huntington Beach is considered expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $3,100 and higher than average grocery and utility costs.
Living in Huntington Beach, California comes at a premium in 2025. With its prime coastal location and desirable amenities, residents can expect to pay more for housing, utilities, and daily expenses compared to inland cities. However, with smart budgeting, the perks of beach living are within reach for many.
Housing Costs in Huntington Beach
Housing is the biggest expense for most Huntington Beach residents. Renting a 2-bedroom apartment typically ranges from $2,800 to $3,400 per month, with an average around $3,100. Prices vary based on proximity to the beach, age of the building, and included amenities.
For those looking to purchase a home, a 3-bedroom single-family house in Huntington Beach averages $1.2 million. Condos and townhomes offer a slightly more affordable option, typically starting around $700,000 for a 2-bedroom unit.
Many neighborhoods in Huntington Beach have Homeowners Associations (HOAs), which can add $200 to $600 per month in fees. These fees often cover shared amenities like pools, gyms, and landscaping.
Utility Costs in Huntington Beach
Basic utilities in Huntington Beach, including electric, gas, water, and trash, average about $220 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment. Expect higher electric bills in the summer months due to increased air conditioning use. Internet and cable packages start around $80 per month.
| Utility | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electric & Gas | $120 |
| Water & Trash | $100 |
| Internet & Cable | $80+ |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries in Huntington Beach cost about 10% more than the national average. A single person can expect to spend around $400 per month on groceries, while a family of four averages $1,200. Dining out is also pricier, with a mid-range restaurant meal for two costing about $80.
To get a sense of typical prices, a gallon of milk costs around $4.50, a loaf of bread is $3.50, and a dozen eggs run about $4. Buying in bulk at stores like Costco can help save on household staples.
Taxes in Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach has a sales tax rate of 7.75%, which is slightly lower than some other parts of Orange County. Property taxes are around 1.1% of a home’s assessed value, adding about $1,100 per month to the cost of a $1.2 million home.
California has a progressive income tax, with rates ranging from 1% to 12.3% depending on income level. For a couple earning $120,000 per year, state income taxes would be about $6,500, or $540 per month.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | $2,200 | $3,100 | $3,800+ |
| Utilities | $180 | $220 | $350 |
| Groceries | $400 | $800 | $1,200 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $500 |
| Healthcare | $300 | $600 | $1,100 |
| Entertainment | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Total | $3,480 | $5,320 | $7,350 |
These figures represent gross monthly income (pre-tax) needed to afford typical expenses. Individual budgets will vary based on lifestyle, family size, and housing choices.
Lifestyle Considerations
Living in Huntington Beach offers perks like year-round beach access, a vibrant downtown, and highly rated schools. However, these come at the cost of a higher overall cost of living. Traffic congestion is also a factor, with average commute times around 30 minutes.
Newer luxury apartments and homes in master-planned communities often come with resort-style amenities, but also higher price tags and HOA fees. More affordable options can be found inland, but with longer commutes to the beach.
For those working remotely or with flexible schedules, living a few miles from the coast can provide a better balance of housing costs and beach town perks. Neighborhoods like Huntington Central Park offer more space and yards compared to beachfront condos.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What salary do you need to live in Huntington Beach?
To comfortably afford a 2-bedroom apartment and typical expenses, a gross monthly income (pre-tax) of at least $5,300 for a couple or $7,400 for a family of four is recommended. - Is Huntington Beach more expensive than Irvine?
Huntington Beach and Irvine have similar costs of living, but Huntington Beach is slightly more expensive in terms of housing, largely due to its beachfront location. - Are utilities expensive in Huntington Beach?
Utilities in Huntington Beach are about 15% higher than the national average, mainly due to higher electric costs for air conditioning during the summer months. - How much is the average monthly grocery bill in Huntington Beach?
Groceries in Huntington Beach cost about 10% more than the national average, with a single person spending around $400 per month and a family of four averaging $1,200. - What is the sales tax rate in Huntington Beach?
The sales tax rate in Huntington Beach is 7.75%, which is slightly lower than some other parts of Orange County. - Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Huntington Beach?
Renting is generally more affordable in the short term, with 2-bedroom apartments averaging $3,100 per month. Buying a home in Huntington Beach requires a significant down payment and monthly mortgage, but can be a better long-term investment. - What are the best neighborhoods for families in Huntington Beach?
Neighborhoods like Huntington Central Park, Seacliff, and Edwards Hill offer family-friendly amenities, good schools, and more space compared to beachfront areas, but with slightly longer commutes to the coast.
While the cost of living in Huntington Beach is high, many residents find the oceanfront lifestyle, perfect weather, and strong community worth the expense. With careful budgeting and smart housing choices, living in this vibrant coastal city is an attainable dream for individuals and families alike. For those planning a move, be sure to check out our 2025 moving company picks to find reliable and affordable movers in the Huntington Beach area.