Compare Apartment and House Costs in La Mesa, CA

Choosing between renting an apartment or buying a house in La Mesa, CA is a big decision that impacts your monthly budget and lifestyle. Renting a 2BR apartment in La Mesa typically costs $2,100/month, while a 3BR house may cost $2,800/month. The average rent for a 3BR house in La Mesa is $2,800/month. The cost of renting a 3BR house in La Mesa has increased by 4% over the last year, with more affordable options in the Lake Murray area.

For new homebuyers in La Mesa, single-family houses are the most popular option, with 65% choosing a house over a condo or townhome. But which housing type makes the most financial sense for you? Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of common monthly costs in La Mesa:

Estimates are for mid-range units with typical usage.

In addition to the base rent or mortgage, houses in La Mesa tend to have higher utility and upkeep costs:

• Water bills are often 50% higher due to lawn and garden watering
• Electricity costs increase with more square footage to cool in the summer
• Homeowners are responsible for lawn care and landscaping costs
• Older La Mesa homes may have less efficient HVAC systems and appliances

Beyond the financial factors, there are key lifestyle tradeoffs to consider. Many La Mesa residents choose apartments for walkability and access to community amenities, while families often prefer houses for extra space and private yards. Some may prioritize the convenience of an apartment near downtown La Mesa, while others enjoy the privacy and room to spread out that a house provides.

Financially, is it cheaper to rent an apartment or buy a house in La Mesa long-term? Let’s simulate the costs over 5 years, factoring in things like maintenance and rent increases:

• Renting a 2BR apartment for 5 years at $2,100/month, with 3% annual increases, would cost roughly $137,000
• Owning a 3BR house at $2,800/month, plus $500/month for maintenance, taxes, and insurance, over 5 years totals $198,000

In La Mesa, buying a house will likely be more expensive than renting on a monthly basis. However, building equity and potential appreciation can make homeownership more economical long-term, especially considering rising rents. Of course, these are general estimates — your individual costs will vary based on the specific property, your monthly budget, and factors like property taxes and HOA fees.

FAQs About Housing Costs in La Mesa

How much more does a house cost per month compared to an apartment in La Mesa?
On average, renting a house in La Mesa costs about $1,265 more per month than renting an apartment, when you factor in the higher utility, maintenance, and insurance costs.

Do houses always have higher utility bills than apartments?

In most cases, yes. Houses have more square footage to heat and cool, and often use more water for lawns and gardens. However, newer homes with energy-efficient features can help reduce utility costs.

Are apartments still cheaper than houses even with pet rent or other fees?
Generally, apartments are more affordable than houses in La Mesa even with additional pet rent or parking fees. The difference in base rent and utilities is significant enough that these extra costs don’t negate the savings of apartment living.

Making the Right Housing Choice in La Mesa

Choosing between an apartment or a house in La Mesa comes down to your budget, lifestyle priorities, and long-term goals. Apartments offer a lower-cost, lower-maintenance option, often with convenient locations and included amenities. Houses provide more space, privacy, and the opportunity to build equity, but come with higher monthly costs and upkeep responsibilities.

Whichever option you choose, make sure to budget carefully, considering all the potential costs involved. For more tips, check out our guides on creating a La Mesa budget and understanding property taxes and HOA fees. With some thoughtful planning, you can find the perfect La Mesa apartment or house to call home.