Anaheim, CA vs. Ontario, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Anaheim or Ontario, California? Housing costs in Anaheim average a whopping $700 more per month compared to Ontario. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Anaheim and Ontario. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how Anaheim and Ontario stack up:
| Housing Type | Anaheim | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,650 | $1,950 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $950,000 | $750,000 |
🏆 Winner: Ontario. Housing costs are significantly lower in Ontario compared to Anaheim, with savings of $700/month on a typical 2BR apartment.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs also factor heavily into monthly budgets. In Anaheim, expect to pay around $250/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2BR apartment. Costs are about 10% lower in Ontario, averaging $225/month.
Both cities have hot summers, so air conditioning usage peaks from June through September. Many homes in Ontario lack air conditioning, which can mean lower summer bills but more discomfort on scorching days.
🏆 Winner: Ontario. While the difference is small, Ontario utility costs come out slightly ahead.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food costs are fairly comparable between Anaheim and Ontario. Expect to spend around $400-500/month per person on groceries in either city.
Eating out is also similar, with a typical meal for two averaging $60 at a mid-range restaurant. However, Anaheim has more upscale dining options that can drive this cost higher for foodies.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and dining out costs are nearly identical in both cities.
4. Taxes and Fees
California is known for its high taxes, and both Anaheim and Ontario have their share of extra costs:
- Anaheim’s property tax rate is 1.10%, slightly higher than Ontario’s 1.07% rate
- Many newer housing developments in both cities have Mello-Roos taxes that can add hundreds to the monthly payment
- HOA fees are common, ranging from $200-500/month. In Anaheim, these often include extras like landscaping and exterior maintenance.
🏆 Winner: Ontario. The lower property tax rate gives Ontario a slight edge, although new housing developments in either city can have high Mello-Roos and HOA fees.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Anaheim | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,650 | $1,950 |
| Utilities | $250 | $225 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $75 | $50 |
| Taxes & Fees | $600 | $500 |
| Misc | $500 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,575 | $3,625 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor in choosing between Anaheim and Ontario. Consider these lifestyle differences:
- Anaheim offers more entertainment options with Disneyland and professional sports, but tourist crowds are common
- Ontario is 7°F hotter on average in July and August compared to Anaheim
- Anaheim is more walkable and bike-friendly, while Ontario is more car-dependent
- Commuting from Ontario to central Orange County takes 20-30 minutes longer each way than from Anaheim
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anaheim more affordable than Ontario?
No, Ontario is more affordable overall, mainly due to lower housing costs. A household moving from Anaheim to Ontario might save $950/month on living costs.
Which city has lower rent?
Ontario has lower rent, with 2BR apartments averaging $700/month less than in Anaheim.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Ontario has lower home prices, with the median 3BR house costing $200,000 less than a comparable home in Anaheim.
8. Conclusion
While Anaheim and Ontario are just 30 miles apart, their cost of living differences can really add up. Households can save around $950/month on essential expenses by choosing Ontario over Anaheim, mainly thanks to lower housing costs.
However, Anaheim’s higher costs come with perks like cooler weather, tourist attractions, shorter commutes, and more walkability. Ultimately, the best fit depends on your budget, lifestyle priorities, and how much space you need.
Considering other Southern California cities? Check out our Monthly Budget Examples for Anaheim Residents and Cost of Living in Anaheim (2025 Guide) for more insights.