Irvine, CA vs. San Bernardino, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Irvine vs San Bernardino. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Irvine vs San Bernardino in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how Irvine and San Bernardino compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Irvine | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $3,200 | $1,600 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $4,500 | $2,200 |
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino. Housing costs are significantly lower in San Bernardino compared to Irvine. A household could save over $2,000 per month on housing alone by choosing San Bernardino.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs also factor into monthly budgets. In Irvine, expect to pay around $180 per month for a 2BR apartment. San Bernardino utility bills typically range from $140-$160 per month.
Both cities have relatively mild climates, so heating and cooling costs are moderate year-round. Irvine residents can take advantage of off-peak electricity plans to save.
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino has a slight edge on utility costs, with savings of $20-$40 per month compared to Irvine.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are fairly comparable between Irvine and San Bernardino. Expect to spend around $400 per month on groceries for a couple in either city.
Eating out is about 15% cheaper in San Bernardino. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages $70 in Irvine vs $60 in San Bernardino.
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino offers modest savings on daily expenses like dining out compared to Irvine.
4. Taxes and Fees
California has a progressive income tax that ranges from 1% to 12.3%. State sales tax is 7.25%. Property taxes in Irvine average 1.1% vs 1.15% in San Bernardino.
Many Irvine neighborhoods have Homeowners Association (HOA) fees that cover amenities and landscaping. These average $350 per month. HOA fees are less common and lower in San Bernardino, averaging $200 when applicable.
🏆 Winner: Irvine has a slight edge on property taxes, but San Bernardino wins out overall with lower HOA fees.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Cost Category | Irvine | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR mortgage) | $4,500 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $180 | $150 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $500 | $450 |
| Taxes (1.1% vs 1.15%) | $550 | $575 |
| Misc Expenses | $800 | $700 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $6,930 | $4,475 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While San Bernardino offers significant cost savings, Irvine has its own lifestyle advantages:
- Irvine is one of the safest cities in America, with a crime rate 50% below the national average
- Irvine’s planned neighborhoods are bike and pedestrian-friendly, with extensive trails
- Irvine schools consistently rank among the best in California
- Irvine’s median household income is $105,000 vs $45,000 in San Bernardino
San Bernardino offers more affordable housing and a lower overall cost of living. However, it has higher crime rates and lower performing schools than Irvine.
7. FAQ
Is Irvine more affordable than San Bernardino?
No, Irvine has a significantly higher cost of living than San Bernardino, mainly due to housing costs. See our full Cost of Living in Irvine (2025 Guide) for details.
Which city has lower rent?
San Bernardino has much lower rent than Irvine. A 2BR apartment averages $1,600 in San Bernardino compared to $3,200 in Irvine.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
San Bernardino homes are significantly cheaper than Irvine. A typical mortgage payment on a 3BR home is $2,200 in San Bernardino vs $4,500 in Irvine.
8. Conclusion
Irvine and San Bernardino offer very different lifestyles and costs of living. Irvine is an affluent, master-planned city with top schools, low crime, and a median household income over $100k. However, this comes with a high cost of living, especially for housing.
San Bernardino is a more affordable alternative for those prioritizing lower costs. Families can save over $2,000 per month on expenses compared to Irvine. The tradeoffs are higher crime rates and lower ranked schools.
In the end, the right city depends on your family’s priorities and budget. Be sure to compare your Monthly Budget Examples for Irvine Residents or San Bernardino to see how each city fits your lifestyle and finances.