Anaheim, CA vs. San Bernardino, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Anaheim vs San Bernardino. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Anaheim vs San Bernardino in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare between Anaheim and San Bernardino:
| Housing Type | Anaheim | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,400 | $1,800 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $3,600 | $2,700 |
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino. Housing costs are about 25% lower in San Bernardino compared to Anaheim.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills can add up quickly. In Anaheim, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. San Bernardino utility costs are slightly lower, averaging $160 monthly.
Both cities have relatively mild climates, so heating and cooling needs are moderate. Look for off-peak usage plans to maximize savings.
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino edges out Anaheim with about 10% lower utility costs on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices are fairly comparable between the two cities. Budget around $400-500 per month for a typical family. Eating out is also similarly priced, with fast casual meals around $12-15 per person.
One notable difference: Gas prices tend to be about 5% higher in Anaheim compared to San Bernardino. For heavy commuters, this can add up.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly identical in both cities.
4. Taxes and Fees
California has relatively high income taxes statewide. However, there are some local differences to note:
- Anaheim’s sales tax rate is 7.75% vs 8.75% in San Bernardino
- Property taxes are slightly lower in Anaheim (1.1% vs 1.2%)
- Many Anaheim neighborhoods have Mello-Roos taxes, which can add hundreds to monthly housing costs
🏆 Winner: Anaheim. While both cities have high taxes, Anaheim residents save a bit on sales and property taxes. Just watch out for those Mello-Roos fees in certain areas!
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Anaheim | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,400 – $3,600 | $1,800 – $2,700 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries | $400 – $500 | $400 – $500 |
| Transportation | $200 (higher gas prices) | $180 |
| Taxes | Lower property & sales tax | Higher property & sales tax |
| Misc | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,680 – $4,880 | $2,940 – $3,940 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While cost is important, so is quality of life. Consider these tradeoffs:
- Anaheim offers more space and newer housing, while San Bernardino is denser and more walkable
- San Bernardino has better public transit. Commute times are 15% shorter on average.
- Anaheim is 5°F cooler in summer, but more humid
San Bernardino sits 1000ft higher in elevation, offering better air quality and views. Anaheim provides closer beach access.
7. FAQ
- Is Anaheim more affordable than San Bernardino? No, San Bernardino has a lower overall cost of living, primarily due to cheaper housing.
- Which city has lower rent? San Bernardino rents are around 25% less than comparable apartments in Anaheim.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? San Bernardino. Expect to pay $900 less per month on a typical mortgage compared to Anaheim.
8. Conclusion
Anaheim and San Bernardino offer a cost of living tradeoff common in Southern California. Anaheim provides more space, newer homes, and coastal access at a premium. San Bernardino is cheaper, denser, and more commuter-friendly.
Young professionals may prefer San Bernardino for its affordability and transit. Families craving space often look to Anaheim and absorb the higher costs. Consider building a monthly budget for Anaheim or checking our full Anaheim cost of living guide for more details.
No matter which city you choose, both offer a slice of the famous Southern California lifestyle and sunshine. Evaluate your priorities and budget to find the right fit for you.