Beaumont, CA vs. Riverside, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Beaumont vs Riverside. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Beaumont vs Riverside in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax) for reader clarity.
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1. Housing Costs
Housing is one of the biggest factors in the cost of living difference between Beaumont and Riverside. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare:
| Housing Type | Beaumont | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800 | $2,200 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $2,400 | $2,900 |
🏆 Winner: Beaumont. Housing costs an estimated 18% less in Beaumont compared to Riverside. A household moving from Riverside to Beaumont might save $400/month on housing alone.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility and energy bills are fairly similar between the two cities, with Beaumont averaging about 5% lower costs:
- Beaumont: $180/month
- Riverside: $190/month
Both cities experience hot summers, so expect higher AC usage and electric bills from June through September. Many utility providers offer off-peak pricing plans.
🏆 Winner: Beaumont, but only by a small margin. Utility costs are comparable.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices and everyday goods cost about the same in Beaumont and Riverside. Expect to budget around $400/month per adult for groceries, household items, and basic personal care.
Eating out is also similarly priced. A meal at a mid-range restaurant averages $18 in Beaumont vs $20 in Riverside.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Groceries and daily expenses are nearly identical.
4. Taxes and Fees
While California state income and sales taxes apply equally to both cities, there are some differences in local taxes and fees:
- Property Tax Rate: 1.15% in Beaumont, 1.25% in Riverside
- Utility User Tax: 3% in Beaumont, 6.5% in Riverside
- Typical HOA Fees: $200-300/month in Beaumont, $250-400/month in Riverside
🏆 Winner: Beaumont. Lower property taxes and city fees add up to meaningful savings for Beaumont residents.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Beaumont | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,800 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $180 | $190 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $60 | $55 |
| Taxes & Fees | $300 | $380 |
| Misc Expenses | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,990 | $3,475 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Beaumont offers a lower cost of living, Riverside has advantages in other lifestyle factors:
- Riverside has more public transportation options, making it easier to get around without a car.
- Riverside offers a more walkable downtown area with dining and entertainment.
- Beaumont tends to be quieter with more space between homes.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Beaumont more affordable than Riverside?
A: Yes, Beaumont has a lower overall cost of living, primarily due to cheaper housing. See our full breakdown of how much it costs to live in Beaumont each month.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Beaumont has lower average rent prices. A typical 2BR apartment costs $1,800/month in Beaumont vs $2,200/month in Riverside.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Beaumont offers lower home prices and property taxes, making it more affordable for homebuyers. The mortgage on a 3BR house averages $2,400/month in Beaumont compared to $2,900/month in Riverside.
8. Conclusion
In summary, Beaumont offers a meaningfully lower cost of living than Riverside, driven by cheaper housing, lower taxes, and slightly lower utility costs. Groceries, goods, and services cost about the same in both cities.
Beaumont tends to be the more affordable choice for:
- Families looking to stretch their budget
- Retirees and those on a fixed income
- Homebuyers prioritizing space and privacy
However, Riverside’s higher costs come with perks like better public transit, walkable neighborhoods, and a more lively downtown.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Be sure to check out our other cost of living guides for cities throughout California to find the best fit for you!