Housing Costs in Anaheim
Housing is the biggest expense for most Anaheim residents. In 2025, the median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Anaheim is approximately $2,850 per month. For those looking to purchase a home, the typical mortgage payment on a 3-bedroom house is around $3,600 per month, assuming a 20% down payment.
It’s important to note that these are median figures, and actual costs can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood, age of the property, and other factors. For example, newer luxury apartments in the Platinum Triangle area may command rents of $3,500 or more, while older units in West Anaheim may be available for under $2,500.
Homeowners should also budget for property taxes, which average 1.1% of the assessed value in Anaheim. HOA fees are common for condos and some single-family developments, typically ranging from $200-500 per month.
| Housing Type | Median Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,850 |
| 3BR House Mortgage | $3,600 |
Utilities and Energy Bills
Utility costs in Anaheim are generally in line with the rest of Orange County. Residents can expect to pay around $120 per month for electricity, $40 for natural gas, $80 for water and sewer, and $30 for trash pickup. High-speed internet starts at about $65 per month.
Keep in mind that electricity bills can spike significantly in the summer months due to air conditioning use. It’s not uncommon for cooling costs to add $100 or more to the monthly electric bill during heat waves. Opting for a newer, energy-efficient apartment or installing solar panels can help mitigate these seasonal spikes.
Here’s a rough estimate of typical monthly utility costs for an 1,000 square foot apartment in Anaheim:
- Electricity: $120
- Natural Gas: $40
- Water/Sewer: $80
- Trash: $30
- Internet: $65
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries in Anaheim cost about 10% more than the national average. A single person can expect to spend around $350-400 per month on groceries, while a family of four may spend closer to $1,100. This assumes a mix of dining out and cooking at home.
To get a sense of local grocery prices, here’s what a typical basket of goods might cost at an Anaheim supermarket:
- 1 gallon milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $3.00
- 12 eggs: $3.75
- 1 lb chicken breast: $4.50
Dining out is a popular pastime in Anaheim, with options ranging from fast food to high-end restaurants. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages $15 per person, while a mid-range restaurant will cost around $50 for a three-course meal for two.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Anaheim residents pay a sales tax of 7.75%, which is slightly lower than some other parts of Orange County. However, there are a few other taxes and fees to be aware of:
- Property Tax: 1.1% of assessed value annually
- Vehicle Registration Fee: 0.65% of vehicle value, due annually
- Utility User Tax: 5% surcharge on cable, electricity, gas, and phone bills
These extra costs can add up, so it’s important to factor them into your monthly budget. For example, the owner of a $700,000 home would owe about $7,700 per year in property taxes, or $640 per month.
Monthly Cost Summary
So what does it really cost to live in Anaheim? Here’s a sample monthly budget for three different household types, based on the figures outlined above. Please note that all amounts are pre-tax (gross) income estimates.
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $2,200 | $2,850 | $3,600 |
| Utilities | $250 | $320 | $450 |
| Groceries | $400 | $700 | $1,100 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Healthcare | $250 | $600 | $1,200 |
| Other Necessities | $400 | $600 | $800 |
| Monthly Total (Pre-Tax) | $3,800 | $5,570 | $7,950 |
Based on these figures, a single person would need to earn around $45,600 per year ($3,800 per month) to live comfortably in Anaheim, while a couple would need a combined income of $66,840 ($5,570 per month). For a family of four, a comfortable lifestyle would require a household income of at least $95,400 ($7,950 per month).
Lifestyle Considerations
Of course, the cost of living is just one factor to consider when deciding where to live. Anaheim offers a number of lifestyle benefits that may make the higher costs worthwhile for some residents.
One major draw is the city’s proximity to job centers. Anaheim is home to a diverse range of industries, from healthcare and education to tourism and technology. The Anaheim Canyon business park is a major employment hub, as is the nearby Irvine Business Complex. Commute times for Anaheim residents average around 30 minutes, which is on par with the rest of Orange County.
Anaheim also boasts a variety of housing options, from sleek new apartments to established single-family neighborhoods. Newer developments tend to be pricier but offer amenities like pools, fitness centers, and smart home features. Older homes in the western part of the city may offer more square footage for the money.
Access to parks and recreation is another plus. Anaheim has over 50 public parks, including the 58-acre Yorba Regional Park with its lakes, trails, and equestrian facilities. The city-owned Oak Canyon Nature Center offers 58 acres of wilderness in the heart of the city.
Ultimately, living comfortably in Anaheim is about balancing your budget with your lifestyle priorities. Opting for a smaller apartment or an older home can help keep costs down, while still allowing access to the city’s many amenities. Alternatively, a higher housing budget may be worth it for those who value newer construction, convenient commutes, or specific neighborhood features.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Anaheim?
A: A single person would need to gross around $3,800 per month ($45,600 per year) to live comfortably in Anaheim, while a family of four would need at least $7,950 per month ($95,400 per year). - Q: Is Anaheim more expensive than other parts of Orange County?
A: Anaheim’s cost of living is generally on par with the rest of Orange County. Some costs, like housing, may be slightly lower than in cities like Irvine or Newport Beach. - Q: Are utilities expensive in Anaheim?
A: Utility costs in Anaheim are similar to the rest of Orange County. Expect to pay around $250-450 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash, depending on the size of your home and usage habits. - Q: How much does it cost to buy a house in Anaheim?
A: As of 2025, the median home price in Anaheim is around $700,000. With a 20% down payment, this equates to a monthly mortgage payment of about $3,600. - Q: What salary do you need to buy a house in Anaheim?
A: To comfortably afford the median home price of $700,000, you would need a household income of at least $120,000 per year (about $10,000 per month). This factors in the mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. - Q: What is the cheapest place to live in Anaheim?
A: West Anaheim tends to have the most affordable housing options, with older apartments and single-family homes. The Platinum Triangle area and newer developments in East Anaheim are generally pricier. - Q: Is Anaheim a good place to live?
A: Anaheim offers a mix of suburban amenities and urban convenience, with diverse housing options, good job access, and ample parks and recreation. However, the cost of living is relatively high, so it’s important to budget carefully and prioritize your lifestyle needs.