Tustin, CA vs. Murrieta, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Tustin vs Murrieta. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Tustin vs Murrieta in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Tustin and Murrieta compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Tustin | Murrieta |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,650 | $2,100 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $950,000 | $650,000 |
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Housing costs are significantly lower in Murrieta compared to Tustin, both for renting and buying.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs can add up quickly. Here’s what you can expect to pay monthly in Tustin vs Murrieta:
- Tustin: $180-$250 (higher in summer for A/C)
- Murrieta: $150-$220 (more stable year-round)
Murrieta’s more moderate climate means less seasonal variation in utility bills compared to Tustin.
🏆 Winner: Murrieta has the edge for lower, more predictable utility costs.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
The cost of food, gas, and everyday items is fairly similar between Tustin and Murrieta. Expect to budget around $400-600 per person monthly for groceries and incidentals in either city.
Eating out is about 15% cheaper in Murrieta. A meal for two averages $60 in Tustin vs $50 in Murrieta.
🏆 Winner: Murrieta for its lower restaurant prices, though grocery costs are comparable.
4. Taxes and Fees
Don’t overlook taxes and city fees in your cost of living comparison:
- Property tax rates are 1.1% in Tustin vs 1.0% in Murrieta
- Tustin HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, adding $200-400 monthly
- Murrieta has lower business taxes and fees for professionals
🏆 Winner: Murrieta has an advantage with lower property taxes and fewer extra fees.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Tustin | Murrieta |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR home) | $3,800 | $2,600 |
| Utilities | $220 | $180 |
| Groceries (2 people) | $800 | $800 |
| Transportation | $150 | $180 |
| Taxes & Fees | $1,200 | $800 |
| Misc Costs | $500 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $6,670 | $4,960 |
Overall, the cost of living is notably lower in Murrieta. A household moving from Tustin to Murrieta might save over $1,700 per month on major expenses.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While cheaper, Murrieta differs from Tustin in key ways:
- Tustin offers a shorter commute to central OC/LA
- Murrieta has larger homes and lots for the price
- Summers average 10°F hotter in Murrieta than Tustin
- Tustin is more walkable with nearby shopping and dining
Ultimately, Murrieta is ideal for budgets and space while Tustin suits urban convenience and coastal access.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tustin more affordable than Murrieta?
No, Murrieta has a lower overall cost of living than Tustin, especially for housing.
Which city has lower rent?
Murrieta offers lower apartment rents, averaging $500 less per month than Tustin for a 2-bedroom.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Murrieta home prices are significantly lower. Expect to pay $300K less for a typical 3BR house compared to Tustin.
8. Conclusion
Murrieta comes out ahead of Tustin for affordability in this cost of living comparison. Families looking to stretch their budget with more space will find Murrieta very appealing. However, Tustin still offers advantages for commuters and those who prefer a walkable, coastal OC lifestyle.
Budgeting for either city? Check out our Monthly Budget Examples for Tustin Residents and full Cost of Living in Tustin (2025 Guide) for more insights.