Lake Forest, CA vs. Anaheim, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Lake Forest or Anaheim, California? Here’s a rapid-fire cost of living comparison to help you decide:
- 🏠 Median rent for a 2BR apartment: $2,450 in Lake Forest vs $2,600 in Anaheim
- ⚡ Average utility bill: $180/month in Lake Forest vs $210/month in Anaheim
- 🥑 Groceries for a family of 4: $1,100/month in Lake Forest vs $1,200/month in Anaheim
- 💸 Sales tax rate: 7.75% in Lake Forest vs 7.75% in Anaheim
For a detailed cost breakdown, read on. This article provides a comprehensive cost of living comparison between Lake Forest and Anaheim. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Lake Forest and Anaheim compare for typical housing options:
| Housing Type | Lake Forest | Anaheim |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $2,450 | $2,600 |
| 3BR House (Mortgage) | $3,800 | $4,100 |
🏆 Winner: Lake Forest. Housing costs an estimated 5-10% less in Lake Forest compared to Anaheim.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs also impact your monthly budget. In Lake Forest, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2BR apartment. Costs are about 15% higher in Anaheim, averaging $210 monthly.
Both cities have similar climates, so seasonal fluctuations in energy use for heating and cooling are comparable. Look into off-peak usage plans from your utility provider to save.
🏆 Winner: Lake Forest has the edge for lower utility bills.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Living in Lake Forest, expect to budget around $1,100 per month for groceries for a family of four. The same groceries would cost about $1,200 monthly in Anaheim.
Eating out is similarly priced. A meal at a mid-range restaurant averages $18 in Lake Forest vs $20 in Anaheim. Daily goods and services are also comparable between the two cities.
🏆 Winner: Lake Forest takes it for about 10% cheaper groceries and daily expenses.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both Lake Forest and Anaheim have a sales tax rate of 7.75%. Property taxes are also similar, though slightly lower in Lake Forest. If buying a home, budget for around 1.1% property tax in Lake Forest vs 1.2% in Anaheim.
City service fees like trash and sewer are wrapped into utility costs. For HOA fees, both cities have a typical range of $200-500 per month, depending on your neighborhood and amenities.
🏆 Winner: Taxes and fees are nearly identical, with Lake Forest having a slight edge.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Cost Category | Lake Forest | Anaheim |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $2,450 | $2,600 |
| Utilities | $180 | $210 |
| Groceries | $1,100 | $1,200 |
| Transportation | $80 | $60 |
| Taxes (Sales) | 7.75% | 7.75% |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $550 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,310 | $4,620 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor in choosing between Lake Forest and Anaheim. Also consider:
- Commute: Anaheim has more public transit options, while Lake Forest is more car-dependent.
- Space: Your housing dollar stretches further in Lake Forest, with more spacious apartments and homes.
- Vibe: Lake Forest has a quieter suburban feel, while Anaheim is a larger city with more bustle.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Lake Forest more affordable than Anaheim?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 5-10% lower in Lake Forest across major expense categories like housing, utilities, and food.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Lake Forest has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment around $150 cheaper per month than in Anaheim.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Lake Forest has a lower median home price and slightly lower property taxes, making it more affordable for homebuyers.
8. Conclusion
While both cities have a lot to offer, Lake Forest comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. Housing, groceries, utilities, and daily expenses are all 5-15% cheaper in Lake Forest compared to Anaheim.
Budget-conscious families, professionals, and retirees will find their dollar goes further in Lake Forest without sacrificing lifestyle. However, those prioritizing public transportation or preferring a larger city vibe might lean toward Anaheim despite the higher cost.
Whichever you choose, consider hiring a top-rated moving company to make your relocation a breeze. And be sure to check out our other cost of living comparisons for cities across California!