Eastvale, CA vs. San Bernardino, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Eastvale or San Bernardino? This cost of living face-off reveals which Inland Empire city is more affordable in 2025. Perfect for relocating families, professionals comparing job offers, or anyone weighing the real-life expenses of living in Eastvale vs San Bernardino.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage prices compare:
| Housing Type | Eastvale | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $2,400 | $1,800 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $650,000 | $450,000 |
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino. Housing costs are significantly lower in San Bernardino compared to Eastvale.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Expect the following in monthly utility bills:
- Eastvale: $180-$250 (higher in summer for AC)
- San Bernardino: $150-$220 (also higher in summer)
Both cities offer off-peak energy plans to help manage costs. San Bernardino’s utility assistance program provides discounts for low-income households.
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino. While utility costs are similar, San Bernardino edges out Eastvale with lower base rates and assistance options.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For a family of four, expect to spend around $1,000/month on groceries in either city. Eating out ranges from $12-$50 per person.
Eastvale has more high-end grocery options, while San Bernardino offers better deals at discount supermarkets. Common goods like gas and clothing cost about the same.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are comparable in both cities.
4. Taxes and Fees
Key differences in taxes and city fees:
- Property Tax Rate: 1.25% in Eastvale, 1.15% in San Bernardino
- Utility User Tax: None in Eastvale, 7.75% in San Bernardino
- HOA Fees: $200-$400/month in Eastvale, $150-$300/month in San Bernardino
🏆 Winner: Eastvale. While property taxes are slightly higher, Eastvale residents avoid San Bernardino’s utility user tax.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Eastvale | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Mortgage*) | $3,200 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $220 | $200 |
| Groceries | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $500 | $450 |
| Taxes & Fees | $600 | $500 |
| Misc Expenses | $800 | $700 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $6,320 | $5,050 |
*Based on median 3BR home price with 20% down, 30-year fixed mortgage at 5% interest. See a detailed breakdown of average monthly expenses in Eastvale, CA.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Eastvale offers newer homes, master-planned communities, and top-rated schools. It’s great for families seeking a suburban lifestyle with easy freeway access. Expect to pay more for the newer housing and amenities.
San Bernardino provides an established, diverse community with classic California character. Homes are older but more affordable, suiting first-time buyers. The city is more walkable, with better public transit. Some areas have higher crime rates.
7. FAQs
Q: Is Eastvale more affordable than San Bernardino?
A: No, the cost of living in Eastvale is about 25% higher than San Bernardino, mainly due to housing costs.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: San Bernardino has lower rent prices. A 2BR apartment averages $1,800/month compared to $2,400/month in Eastvale.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Homes in San Bernardino are significantly cheaper. The median price of a 3BR house is $450,000 in San Bernardino vs $650,000 in Eastvale.
8. Conclusion
While Eastvale has higher housing costs, it offers a newer suburban lifestyle that appeals to many families and professionals. San Bernardino is more affordable overall, providing an urban feel with public transit and classic California character.
Your budget and priorities will determine the best fit. A household moving from San Bernardino to Eastvale might pay $1,000 more per month in housing alone. Weigh the tradeoffs to see which city suits your needs and budget in 2025.
Considering other SoCal cities? Check out our cost of living comparisons for Riverside, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, and more.