Fullerton, CA vs. Murrieta, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Fullerton or Murrieta, CA? Housing costs in Murrieta are a whopping 28% lower than Fullerton. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Fullerton and Murrieta. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two Southern California cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Fullerton and Murrieta. Here’s a quick comparison of median home prices and rents:
| Housing Type | Fullerton | Murrieta |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $950,000 | $680,000 |
| Average Rent (2BR) | $2,800 | $2,100 |
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Housing costs are significantly lower in Murrieta compared to Fullerton. A household moving from Fullerton to Murrieta might save $700/month on rent alone.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs, including electricity, gas, water, and sewer, are fairly comparable between the two cities. In both Fullerton and Murrieta, typical utility bills for a family of four average:
- Summer months: $350-400/month
- Winter months: $200-250/month
Both cities are serviced by Southern California Edison and SoCalGas, with similar rate plans and fees.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are very similar in Fullerton and Murrieta.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery and restaurant prices in Murrieta trend about 5-10% lower than in Fullerton. A gallon of milk averages $4.50 in Murrieta compared to $5 in Fullerton. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant is around $18 in Murrieta vs $20 in Fullerton.
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Expect to spend slightly less on groceries and dining out in Murrieta.
4. Taxes and Fees
California’s base sales tax rate is 7.25%, but most cities charge more on top of that. In Fullerton, the total sales tax rate is 8.25%. Murrieta’s sales tax rate is a bit lower at 8.00%.
Property taxes are also lower in Murrieta. The average effective property tax rate in Murrieta is 1.15% vs 1.25% in Fullerton. For a $600K home, that’s a difference of $600 per year.
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Lower sales and property tax rates in Murrieta can add up to meaningful savings.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Fullerton | Murrieta |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,800 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $325 | $325 |
| Groceries | $500 | $450 |
| Transportation | $200 | $250 |
| Taxes | 8.25% | 8.00% |
| Misc | $400 | $350 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,225 | $3,475 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Murrieta offers a lower cost of living, Fullerton has some lifestyle advantages:
- Fullerton is more walkable and bikeable, with a Walk Score of 69 vs Murrieta’s 28
- Fullerton has more public transit, with a Transit Score of 37 vs Murrieta’s 19
- Fullerton is only 25 miles from Los Angeles, while Murrieta is 80 miles away
However, Murrieta offers more space, larger homes, and a quieter suburban feel. Murrieta averages 15°F hotter than Fullerton in July.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Murrieta more affordable than Fullerton? Yes, the cost of living is about 18% lower in Murrieta compared to Fullerton, mainly due to cheaper housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Murrieta has lower average rents, with a 2BR apartment costing around $2,100/month vs $2,800/month in Fullerton.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Median home prices in Murrieta are about 28% lower than in Fullerton, around $680K vs $950K.
8. Conclusion
Murrieta offers a significantly lower cost of living than Fullerton, especially for housing. Families looking to stretch their budget and have more space may prefer Murrieta. However, Fullerton is more walkable and transit-friendly, with easier access to Los Angeles.
Budgeting is highly personal, so plug in your own numbers and see how each city fits your finances. Check out these Monthly Budget Examples for Fullerton Residents or this full Cost of Living in Fullerton (2025 Guide) for more details.