Mason is considered moderately expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $1,750 and slightly higher grocery and utility costs compared to national averages.
Imagine you’re Sarah, a young professional who just accepted a job offer in Mason, OH. As she prepares for her move, Sarah starts researching the best moving options and crunching the numbers to determine her monthly budget in this charming Cincinnati suburb. Let’s take a closer look at the various expenses Sarah and others like her can expect when living in Mason in 2025.
Housing Costs in Mason
Housing is typically the largest expense for most households, and Mason is no exception. In 2025, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Mason hovers around $1,750 per month. For those looking to purchase a home, a 3-bedroom single-family house in a desirable neighborhood can range from $350,000 to $450,000.
Here’s a quick comparison of rental prices across different property types in Mason:
- Studio apartment: $1,100 – $1,300
- 1-bedroom apartment: $1,400 – $1,600
- 2-bedroom apartment: $1,650 – $1,850
- 3-bedroom house: $2,000 – $2,500
It’s worth noting that some neighborhoods, particularly those closer to top-rated schools or with newer construction, may command higher prices. Additionally, many communities in Mason have homeowners associations (HOAs), which can add $200 to $400 per month to housing costs for amenities like landscaping, pools, and clubhouses.
Utilities and Energy Bills
Utility costs in Mason are slightly higher than the national average. Residents can expect to pay around $150 to $200 per month for basic utilities like electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2-bedroom apartment. High-speed internet adds another $60 to $80 per month.
Keep in mind that utility bills can fluctuate seasonally, with higher cooling costs during the hot summer months and increased heating expenses in the winter. Here’s a monthly estimate for a typical 2-bedroom apartment:
| Utility | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $80 – $120 |
| Gas | $30 – $50 |
| Water & Sewer | $40 – $60 |
| Trash | $20 – $30 |
| Internet | $60 – $80 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs in Mason are about 5% higher than the national average. A single person can expect to spend around $350 to $400 per month on groceries, while a family of four might spend closer to $1,000 to $1,200.
To put this into perspective, here’s a price comparison for some common grocery items in Mason:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.75
- Dozen eggs: $2.50
- Pound of chicken breast: $4.00
Dining out can also add to monthly expenses. A meal at a mid-range restaurant in Mason typically costs around $15 to $25 per person, while a fast-food combo meal is about $8 to $10.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Mason residents pay a 1.12% income tax in addition to state and federal taxes. Property taxes in Warren County, where Mason is located, are around 1.2% of assessed home value, which is slightly lower than the national average.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of tax rates in Mason:
| Tax Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Income Tax | 1.12% |
| Sales Tax | 7.00% |
| Property Tax | 1.20% |
Other hidden fees to consider include vehicle registration fees (around $35 to $50 per year) and pet licenses (about $20 per year).
Monthly Budget Summary
To summarize, here’s a table showing the estimated monthly expenses for different household sizes in Mason:
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of Four |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | $1,400 | $1,750 | $2,250 |
| Utilities | $200 | $250 | $350 |
| Groceries | $400 | $700 | $1,100 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Miscellaneous | $300 | $500 | $700 |
| Total | $2,500 | $3,500 | $4,800 |
Keep in mind that these figures are pre-tax estimates and do not include savings, investments, or discretionary spending like entertainment or travel.
Lifestyle Considerations
While the cost of living in Mason is higher than the national average, many residents find that the city’s high quality of life justifies the expense. Mason is known for its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and abundant parks and recreational facilities.
Commute times in Mason are relatively short, with most residents spending 20 to 30 minutes driving to work in Cincinnati or other nearby cities. However, this convenience comes at the cost of higher gas prices and vehicle maintenance expenses.
Newer homes in Mason tend to be larger and more expensive, while older homes in established neighborhoods offer more affordable options. Residents often have to weigh the tradeoffs between space, amenities, and affordability when choosing where to live.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What salary do you need to live comfortably in Mason?
A: To live comfortably in Mason, a single person should aim for a gross monthly income of at least $3,500, while a family of four may require $6,000 or more. - Q: Is Mason more expensive than other Cincinnati suburbs?
A: Mason is generally more expensive than suburbs like West Chester or Fairfield but less costly than upscale areas like Indian Hill or Mariemont. - Q: Are there any affordable neighborhoods in Mason?
A: Older neighborhoods like Mason Heights and Trailside offer more affordable housing options, with homes starting in the low $200,000s. - Q: How much should I budget for entertainment and dining out?
A: Allocating 10% to 15% of your monthly income for entertainment and dining out is a good starting point, but this can vary based on your lifestyle and preferences. - Q: Are there any hidden costs to watch out for when moving to Mason?
A: Be prepared for HOA fees in many neighborhoods, as well as higher than average utility bills and property taxes.
As Sarah discovered, living in Mason offers a high quality of life with excellent amenities and convenient access to Cincinnati, but it comes with a higher price tag than some other Midwestern cities. By carefully considering the costs of housing, utilities, groceries, and other expenses, residents can create a budget that allows them to enjoy all that Mason has to offer without breaking the bank.