Hillsboro, OR vs. Tualatin, OR: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Trying to decide between moving to Hillsboro or Tualatin, Oregon? This cost of living comparison breaks down housing, utilities, groceries and other key expenses in these two Portland suburbs. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a home, or renting an apartment, see which city best fits your lifestyle and budget in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and home prices compare in Hillsboro vs Tualatin:
| Housing Type | Hillsboro | Tualatin |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,800 | $2,100 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $550,000 | $625,000 |
🏆 Winner: Hillsboro. Renting a 2-bedroom apartment costs around $300 less per month in Hillsboro compared to Tualatin. Median home prices are also about $75,000 lower in Hillsboro.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $150-200 per month for electricity, water, gas, and trash service for a typical apartment. Larger homes will have higher utility costs, especially in winter months.
🏆 Winner: Tie. There are no major differences in utility rates between Hillsboro and Tualatin.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices and everyday costs like dining out or buying household goods are comparable in both cities. Expect to budget at least $400 per month for food for a single person, or $800+ for a family. Restaurant prices are similar, with most casual meals costing $12-18 per person.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly identical in Hillsboro and Tualatin.
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes in Washington County, which includes Hillsboro and Tualatin, are around 1.2% of a home’s assessed value. A house valued at $500,000 would owe about $6,000 per year in property taxes.
Hillsboro has slightly lower city service fees, such as for parks and recreation. HOA fees in both cities typically range from $200-400 per month, often including landscaping, exterior maintenance, and amenities.
🏆 Winner: Hillsboro. While property taxes are similar, Hillsboro has marginally lower city fees on average.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Expense Category | Hillsboro | Tualatin |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $1,800 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $180 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $100 | $120 |
| Taxes & Fees | $500 | $550 |
| Misc Expenses | $300 | $300 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,280 | $3,650 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Hillsboro and Tualatin offer a similar suburban lifestyle with good schools, safe neighborhoods, and easy access to Portland. However, there are a few key differences:
- Hillsboro is slightly more affordable and has more new construction homes available
- Tualatin has a quaint downtown area with local shops and restaurants
- Hillsboro is closer to the Silicon Forest and major employers like Intel and Nike
- Summers are 2-3°F warmer on average in Tualatin
7. FAQ
Q: Is Hillsboro more affordable than Tualatin?
A: Yes, the cost of living in Hillsboro is about 10% lower than Tualatin, mainly due to cheaper housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent prices?
A: Hillsboro has lower apartment rents, with a typical 2-bedroom unit costing around $1,800 per month compared to over $2,000 in Tualatin.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Median home prices in Hillsboro are roughly $75,000 less than in Tualatin, making it more affordable for buyers.
8. Conclusion
While Hillsboro and Tualatin share many similarities, Hillsboro comes out ahead in terms of overall affordability. Cheaper housing costs make it attractive for renters, first-time homebuyers, and those on tighter budgets. However, Tualatin’s charm and proximity to I-5 may be worth the premium for some.
Ultimately, both cities provide a high quality of life in the Portland metro area. We recommend visiting each to get a feel for the vibe of the community. Weigh factors like sample monthly budgets for Hillsboro and the full cost of living in Hillsboro to determine which is the best fit for your family and finances.