Laguna Niguel, CA vs. Anaheim, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Contrary to popular belief, Laguna Niguel is actually more affordable than Anaheim for many households. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Laguna Niguel and Anaheim. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life costs of these two Southern California cities in 2025.
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Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Laguna Niguel and Anaheim. Here’s how typical rental and purchase prices compare:
| Housing Type | Laguna Niguel | Anaheim |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,450/month | $2,700/month |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $950,000 | $1,150,000 |
🏆 Winner: Laguna Niguel. A household moving from Anaheim to Laguna Niguel could save $400 per month on housing alone.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, with Laguna Niguel having a slight edge. Expect to pay around $180 per month for a typical apartment in Laguna Niguel vs. $200 in Anaheim. Both cities have warm summers and mild winters, so seasonal fluctuations are minimal.
🏆 Winner: Laguna Niguel, but the difference is small.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs and everyday purchases like gas and dining out are comparable between Laguna Niguel and Anaheim. Budget around $400-500 per person monthly in either city. Restaurant prices are nearly identical.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily costs are a wash between these two cities.
Taxes and Fees
Both cities have similar property tax rates around 1.1% of assessed value annually. However, with Laguna Niguel’s lower home prices, that translates to meaningful savings. City service fees and typical HOA dues are also slightly lower in Laguna Niguel.
🏆 Winner: Laguna Niguel, primarily due to lower home values.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Laguna Niguel | Anaheim |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,450 | $2,700 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $450 | $450 |
| Transportation | $75 | $60 |
| Taxes & Fees | $800 | $950 |
| Misc | $300 | $300 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,255 | $4,660 |
Lifestyle Fit
Laguna Niguel offers more space for the money, with larger apartments and homes than Anaheim at each price point. However, Anaheim has better public transit and walkability. Anaheim averages 5°F warmer than Laguna Niguel year-round. Noise levels and air quality are similar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Laguna Niguel more affordable than Anaheim?
Yes, Laguna Niguel has a lower overall cost of living than Anaheim, primarily due to cheaper housing. See our full cost of living breakdown for Laguna Niguel.
Which city has lower rent?
Laguna Niguel has lower average rent prices than Anaheim, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $250 less per month.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Laguna Niguel has significantly lower home prices than Anaheim. A median 3BR house costs nearly $200,000 less in Laguna Niguel.
The Bottom Line
Overall, Laguna Niguel is the more affordable place to live for most households. Its lower housing costs make it attractive for families, retirees, and professionals who don’t mind a slightly longer commute. However, Anaheim can be a better fit for singles and those who prioritize walkability and public transit.
Budgeting is essential in either city. See our guide to affording life in Laguna Niguel, and check out our top moving company picks for 2025 if you decide to make the leap.