Anaheim, CA vs. Murrieta, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Anaheim vs Murrieta. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Anaheim vs Murrieta in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how Anaheim and Murrieta compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Anaheim | Murrieta |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $2,800 | $2,200 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $950,000 | $750,000 |
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Housing costs are around 20-25% lower in Murrieta compared to Anaheim.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills can add up quickly. Here’s what you can expect to pay monthly in Anaheim vs Murrieta:
- Anaheim: $180-$250
- Murrieta: $150-$220
Both cities have similar climates, so seasonal fluctuations in energy usage are comparable. Murrieta’s utility costs tend to be slightly lower across the board.
🏆 Winner: Murrieta, but the difference is minor.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food costs are fairly consistent between the two cities. Expect to spend around $400-500 per person monthly on groceries in either Anaheim or Murrieta.
Eating out is also similarly priced. A meal at a mid-range restaurant averages $60 for two in both cities.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and dining out costs are nearly identical.
4. Taxes and Fees
California is known for its high taxes, and that applies to both Anaheim and Murrieta. Key differences:
- Anaheim’s property tax rate is 1.15% vs Murrieta’s 1.25%
- Murrieta has lower utility taxes and fees
- In Anaheim, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $200-500/month. Murrieta HOAs are typically under $200/month.
🏆 Winner: Murrieta has an edge with lower property taxes and fees.
5. Cost of Living in Anaheim vs Murrieta Summary
| Cost Category | Anaheim | Murrieta |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR home) | $3,800 | $3,000 |
| Utilities | $220 | $190 |
| Groceries (2 people) | $800 | $800 |
| Transportation | $500 | $600 |
| Taxes & Fees | $600 | $500 |
| Misc Costs | $500 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $6,420 | $5,490 |
Figures above are estimates for a household with a gross monthly income of $10,000 (pre-tax). Your actual costs may vary. See our Monthly Budget Examples for Anaheim Residents for more details.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While cost is a major factor, it’s important to also consider lifestyle fit. Some key differences between Anaheim and Murrieta:
- Anaheim is a larger city with more dense urban areas. Murrieta has a more suburban feel with larger homes and lots.
- Anaheim is closer to major job centers and has more public transportation options. Murrieta means longer commutes for many.
- Summers are milder in Murrieta, averaging 5°F cooler than Anaheim in July and August.
- Anaheim homes are 10 years older than Murrieta’s on average, but often have more character and architectural variety.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Anaheim more affordable than Murrieta? No, Murrieta has a lower overall cost of living, primarily due to cheaper housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Murrieta rental costs are around 20% lower than Anaheim.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? The median home price in Murrieta is roughly $200,000 less than in Anaheim as of 2025.
8. Conclusion
Murrieta offers a lower cost of living than Anaheim, mainly thanks to more affordable housing. However, Anaheim’s higher costs come with benefits like shorter commutes, public transit, and a wider variety of neighborhoods.
Ultimately, the best fit depends on your budget, housing needs, and lifestyle priorities. Be sure to compare specific neighborhoods and factor in your personal preferences.
To dig deeper, read our full Cost of Living in Anaheim (2025 Guide) or check cost of living breakdowns for other California cities.