La Mesa, CA vs. San Diego, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison between La Mesa and San Diego. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of living in La Mesa vs San Diego in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how La Mesa and San Diego compare for typical housing options:
| Housing Type | La Mesa | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $2,100 | $2,800 |
| 3BR Home (Mortgage) | $3,500 | $4,500 |
🏆 Winner: La Mesa. Housing costs are significantly lower in La Mesa compared to San Diego proper.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect monthly bills around:
- Electricity: $100-150
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $80-100
- Internet: $50-80
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in La Mesa and San Diego.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are about 5-10% lower in La Mesa compared to San Diego. A family of four might spend around $1,000/month on groceries in La Mesa vs. $1,100 in San Diego.
Eating out is also slightly cheaper in La Mesa. A meal at a mid-range restaurant averages $60 for two in La Mesa compared to $70 in San Diego.
🏆 Winner: La Mesa edges out San Diego for everyday expenses like groceries and dining out.
4. Taxes and Fees
Sales tax is 7.75% in both cities as of 2025. However, property taxes are lower in La Mesa, averaging 1.1% vs 1.2% in San Diego.
HOA fees tend to be higher in San Diego, often $400+ per month, while La Mesa HOAs are typically under $300/month.
🏆 Winner: La Mesa has an advantage for homeowners due to lower property taxes and HOA fees.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | La Mesa | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $3,500 | $4,500 |
| Utilities | $250 | $250 |
| Groceries | $1,000 | $1,100 |
| Transportation | $200 | $180 |
| Taxes & Fees | $600 | $800 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $600 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $6,050 | $7,430 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
La Mesa offers more affordable housing and a quieter suburban feel. It’s great for families who want space on a budget. However, commutes into San Diego can be 30+ minutes.
San Diego proper provides an urban lifestyle with walkable neighborhoods and ample public transit. It’s ideal for young professionals who value city amenities and shorter commutes over square footage. San Diego averages 5°F cooler than La Mesa in the summer.
7. FAQ
Is La Mesa more affordable than San Diego?
Yes, La Mesa is about 20% cheaper than San Diego, mainly due to lower housing costs.
Which city has lower rent?
Rents are significantly lower in La Mesa. A typical 2BR apartment is $700 less per month compared to central San Diego.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
La Mesa offers lower home prices, property taxes, and HOA fees, making it more affordable for buyers. Use these sample monthly budgets for La Mesa in 2025 to estimate your costs.
8. Conclusion
Overall, La Mesa provides a lower cost of living compared to San Diego. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious families. However, San Diego’s urban perks may be worth the premium for some lifestyles. Review this full cost of living overview for La Mesa to dive deeper.
Other key areas where La Mesa and San Diego differ in cost include:
- Childcare: Preschool and daycare centers are about 15% cheaper in La Mesa
- Healthcare: Routine doctor visits and dental cleanings cost 5-10% less in La Mesa
- Fitness: Gym memberships average $40/month in La Mesa vs $60/month in San Diego
Ultimately, your lifestyle priorities will determine which city is the right financial fit. We recommend visiting both to get a firsthand feel for which option lines up with your budget and preferences.