Huntington Beach, CA vs. Orange, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Huntington Beach or Orange, CA? Here’s a rapid-fire cost of living comparison for 2025:
- 🏠 Median 2BR rent: $2,850 in Huntington Beach vs $2,650 in Orange
- ⚡ Avg. utilities: $180/mo in Huntington Beach vs $160/mo in Orange
- 🛒 Groceries for 2: $500/mo in Huntington Beach vs $475/mo in Orange
- 🏙️ Median home price: $950K in Huntington Beach vs $825K in Orange
This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Huntington Beach and Orange. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of living in these two cities in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Huntington Beach and Orange. Here’s how typical housing costs compare:
| Housing Type | Huntington Beach | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $2,850 | $2,650 |
| 3BR House (Mortgage) | $4,200 | $3,800 |
🏆 Winner: Orange. Housing costs are about 10-15% lower in Orange compared to Huntington Beach.
Considering buying a home in Huntington Beach? Check out our guide on whether you can afford to live in Huntington Beach based on your monthly budget.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, but Orange has a slight edge:
- Huntington Beach utilities: $180/month avg (electric, gas, water, trash)
- Orange utilities: $160/month avg
Both cities have relatively mild climates, so heating and cooling costs don’t fluctuate too much seasonally.
🏆 Winner: Orange, but only by about $20/month on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
The cost of groceries, dining out, and everyday goods is quite comparable between Huntington Beach and Orange:
- Huntington Beach: $500/mo estimated for a couple
- Orange: $475/mo estimated
Restaurant prices and common items like gas are nearly identical. Expect to budget around the same for daily living expenses in either city.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily costs are almost equal.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both cities have similar property tax rates around 1.1-1.2% of assessed value. Huntington Beach’s slightly higher home prices mean a bit more paid in property taxes for the same house.
In Huntington Beach, HOA fees often include extras like landscaping and trash, while Orange HOAs tend to cover just common area maintenance. Factor in about $50-100/month more for HOA in Huntington Beach.
🏆 Winner: Orange. Lower home values and HOA fees give Orange the advantage.
Cost Summary Table
| Category | Huntington Beach | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $4,200 | $3,800 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries | $500 | $475 |
| Transportation | $300 | $250 |
| Taxes & Fees | $800 | $700 |
| Misc Costs | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $6,380 | $5,785 |
Lifestyle Fit
Huntington Beach offers more space and a laid-back beach vibe, but comes with a longer commute if you work in central Orange County. Homes in Huntington Beach average about 20% larger than in Orange.
Orange has a quaint old town area, is more walkable, and sits closer to major freeways and job centers. But lots tend to be smaller and older. Orange is about 5°F hotter than Huntington Beach in the summer.
FAQ
Is Huntington Beach more affordable than Orange?
No, Orange is about 10% cheaper than Huntington Beach overall, mainly due to lower housing costs.
Which city has lower rent?
Typical rent in Orange is $100-200 less per month than in Huntington Beach for a comparable apartment.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Orange has lower median home prices, around $825,000 for a 3BR compared to $950,000 in Huntington Beach (2025 prices).
Conclusion
While Huntington Beach and Orange have similar vibes and amenities, Orange is the more affordable place to live by about 10% for most households. Renters, young professionals, and those who prioritize a central location will find Orange very appealing.
Huntington Beach is ideal for families craving more space, a beach lifestyle, and who don’t mind paying a bit more for housing. See our full cost of living breakdown for Huntington Beach.
Whichever city you choose, using a professional moving company will make your relocation easier. Exploring other cost of living comparisons for cities in Southern California can also help you find the perfect fit for your budget and lifestyle.