Irvine, CA vs. Ontario, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Irvine or Ontario, California? Let’s break down the key cost of living differences between these two cities:
- 🏠 Median rent for a 2BR apartment: $2,850 in Irvine vs $2,100 in Ontario
- ⚡ Average monthly utilities: $180 in Irvine vs $220 in Ontario
- 🛒 Typical grocery costs: 10-15% higher in Irvine
- 💸 Sales tax rate: 7.75% in Irvine vs 7.75% in Ontario
This cost of living comparison is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone weighing the real costs of Irvine vs Ontario in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Irvine and Ontario compare for typical housing options:
| Housing Type | Irvine | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $2,850 | $2,100 |
| 3BR House (Mortgage) | $4,500 | $3,400 |
🏆 Winner: Ontario. Renting a 2BR apartment costs around $750 less per month compared to Irvine, while a typical mortgage payment on a 3BR house is over $1,000 cheaper in Ontario.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs can add up quickly. In Irvine, expect to pay around $180 per month for basic utilities like electricity, water, and gas for a 2BR apartment. Costs are about 20% higher in Ontario, averaging $220 monthly, due in part to more extreme temperatures and higher summer A/C usage.
Both cities offer “time-of-use” utility plans that provide lower rates for off-peak hours. Taking advantage of these programs can help keep bills manageable.
🏆 Winner: Irvine, with lower utility costs across the board. However, energy-conscious habits can help reduce bills in either city.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Irvine residents pay a bit more for groceries and everyday items. Expect supermarket staples like produce, meat, and toiletries to cost 10-15% more than in Ontario. Eating out is also pricier, with average restaurant meals running $5-10 higher in Irvine.
🏆 Winner: Ontario. The cost of food and daily goods is meaningfully lower, which can add up to hundreds in savings per month for a typical family.
Taxes and Fees
Both Irvine and Ontario have a sales tax rate of 7.75%. Property taxes are also similar, though slightly higher in Irvine:
- Irvine property tax rate: 1.1%
- Ontario property tax rate: 1.0%
In Irvine, many neighborhoods have Homeowners Association (HOA) fees that often include services like landscaping, exterior maintenance, and trash collection. Typical HOA dues range from $200-500 per month. Most Ontario communities do not have HOAs, so these added costs are less common.
🏆 Winner: Ontario. While taxes are comparable, Irvine’s higher home prices and prevalence of HOA fees make it more expensive overall.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Irvine | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $2,850 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $220 |
| Groceries | $800 | $700 |
| Transportation | $500 | $450 |
| Misc Costs | $750 | $600 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $5,080 | $4,070 |
Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor in choosing between Irvine and Ontario. Consider other tradeoffs:
- Irvine is 7°F cooler than Ontario on average during summer months
- Ontario offers more spacious housing for the price
- Irvine is more walkable and bike-friendly
- Traffic noise is 15% lower in Irvine per resident surveys
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Irvine more affordable than Ontario?
No, Irvine has a higher overall cost of living, with more expensive housing, food, and HOA fees. Review our full Cost of Living in Irvine guide for more details.
Which city has lower rent?
Ontario has meaningfully cheaper rent, with the median 2BR apartment costing $2,100 vs $2,850 in Irvine.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Ontario. A typical mortgage for a 3BR house is around $1,100 less per month compared to Irvine.
Conclusion
While Irvine has great amenities and a comfortable climate, Ontario is more affordable across major cost of living categories like housing, food, and utilities. For many, the savings are well worth it.
To see how your budget might look in each city, check out these monthly budget examples for Irvine residents. Crunching the numbers is an essential step in making your California move a success!