Mount Laurel is considered moderately priced in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $1,600 and overall living costs slightly above the national average.
Living in Mount Laurel, NJ, a suburb of Philadelphia, costs about 5% more than the typical U.S. city in 2025. For a couple, a comfortable lifestyle may require a gross monthly income around $4,500. Let’s break down the numbers behind the cost of living in Mount Laurel.
Housing Costs in Mount Laurel
Housing is the biggest expense for most Mount Laurel residents. Renting a 2-bedroom apartment averages $1,600 per month, while purchasing a 3-bedroom home costs around $400,000. Prices vary by neighborhood, with communities closer to parks and top-rated schools commanding a premium.
Typical housing costs in Mount Laurel break down as follows:
| Neighborhood | 2BR Rent | 3BR Home Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ramblewood | $1,500 | $380,000 |
| Larchmont | $1,700 | $420,000 |
| Birchfield | $1,600 | $400,000 |
Most homes in Mount Laurel belong to homeowners associations (HOAs), which charge monthly dues ranging from $100 to $300. These fees typically cover community amenities and shared maintenance. When moving to Mount Laurel, factor in these ongoing costs.
Mount Laurel Utility Bills
Utilities are another significant expense, averaging $200 per month for a typical household. Costs spike in summer as air conditioning battles the Mid-Atlantic humidity. Expect to pay more if you have a large home or pool.
| Utility | Avg Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $120 |
| Natural gas | $50 |
| Water/sewer | $30 |
| Trash pickup | $20 |
Many neighborhoods have buried utility lines, a perk that boosts aesthetics and reliability but can make repairs pricier. Solar is increasingly popular as an energy-saving upgrade.
Groceries and Food Prices
Feeding a family is a major part of the monthly budget in Mount Laurel. Groceries for two adults usually cost between $600 and $800 per month, depending on your diet and shopping habits. Here’s what a typical grocery basket might run:
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 gal) | $4 |
| Eggs (dozen) | $3 |
| Bread (loaf) | $3 |
| Chicken (lb) | $4 |
| Beef (lb) | $6 |
| Rice (lb) | $2 |
| Produce (avg) | $2/lb |
| Coffee (lb) | $8 |
Dining out is a popular treat, with entrees at local restaurants averaging $20. A family of four might spend $100 or more on a nice meal out. With tip, budget at least $30 per adult.
Taxes and Fees to Plan For
Mount Laurel’s property tax rate is 2.3%, meaning the owner of a $400,000 home pays about $9,200 per year. That’s higher than the national average but typical for New Jersey. The sales tax is 6.6% on most goods and services.
Other common fees to factor into your cost of living:
- HOA dues: $100-$300/month
- Vehicle registration: $100/year
- Parking permits: $30/year
- Pet licenses: $20/year
- Home security system: $30/month
Mount Laurel Monthly Budget Summary
So what does it really cost to live comfortably in Mount Laurel? Here are some sample monthly budgets:
| Expense | Single Adult | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,300 | $1,600 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $150 | $200 | $300 |
| Groceries | $400 | $700 | $1,200 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Taxes/Fees | $500 | $800 | $1,200 |
| Miscellaneous | $400 | $700 | $1,000 |
| Total | $3,050 | $4,500 | $6,700 |
Methodology: These 2025 estimates for Mount Laurel draw on publicly available national and regional sources including the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED). Where city-specific figures are unavailable, safe regional ranges are applied (e.g., typical 2BR rents, grocery costs per adult). All amounts are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax) and rounded to whole dollars. Actual expenses vary by household size, lifestyle, and neighborhood choice.
Lifestyle Factors Affecting Costs
Mount Laurel offers a mix of suburban amenities and open space, with housing options to fit different budgets and preferences. Townhomes and condos near the town center provide a maintenance-free lifestyle at a lower price point than single-family homes. Larger properties on the outskirts have more yard space but longer commutes.
Transportation is a key factor. Living near the NJ Turnpike or I-295 shaves time off the 30-minute drive to Philadelphia but may mean higher housing costs. Homes within walking distance of parks, shops, and restaurants also command a premium. Choosing a place further out can trim your rent or mortgage but add to your gas budget.
Remote work is increasingly common, but many residents still commute to jobs in Philadelphia, Cherry Hill, or other nearby cities. Carpooling and public transit help make getting around more affordable. The Pureland East-West Community Shuttle and BurLink buses connect Mount Laurel to NJ Transit routes to Philly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mount Laurel more affordable than Cherry Hill?
While housing costs are similar, Mount Laurel’s property taxes tend to be slightly lower than Cherry Hill’s. Utilities and groceries are comparable between the two communities.
What salary do you need to live in Mount Laurel?
A single adult can live comfortably in Mount Laurel on a gross income of about $3,000 per month. For a family of four, a monthly income closer to $7,000 allows more flexibility and savings.
How much is the average electric bill in Mount Laurel?
Electricity costs average $120 per month for a typical home in Mount Laurel. Bills are highest in summer when air conditioning use peaks.
Is it cheaper to buy or rent in Mount Laurel?
Buying a home is often cheaper than renting in the long run, but it requires a substantial down payment. With Mount Laurel’s high property taxes, renting can make sense in the short term.
What’s the most affordable neighborhood in Mount Laurel?
Ramblewood Village offers some of the lowest housing costs in Mount Laurel, with 2-bedroom rentals available for around $1,500 per month. However, the most budget-friendly homes are often farther from amenities.
Are groceries expensive in Mount Laurel?
Grocery costs in Mount Laurel are slightly higher than the U.S. average. A couple typically spends $600 to $800 per month on food to prepare at home, not including dining out.
What hidden fees should I plan for in Mount Laurel?
Homeowners should budget for HOA dues, which often range from $100 to $300 per month in Mount Laurel. Parking permits, pet registration, and vehicle fees can also add up.