Housing Costs in Murrieta
Housing is typically the largest expense in a monthly budget. In Murrieta, the median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is around $2,100 per month as of 2025. For those looking to purchase a home, a typical 3-bedroom house has a median mortgage payment of $2,800-$3,200 per month, depending on the neighborhood and home condition.
Many newer housing developments in Murrieta have Homeowners Association (HOA) fees, which can add $200-400 to the monthly housing cost. While these fees cover amenities and landscaping, they are an important consideration in the overall budget.
- Median 2BR Apartment Rent: $2,100
- Typical 3BR House Mortgage: $2,800 – $3,200
- HOA Fees (If Applicable): $200 – $400
Utilities and Energy Bills
Utility costs in Murrieta are generally in line with the Southern California average. Residents can expect to pay around $120 for electricity, $40 for natural gas, $80 for water, and $30 for trash collection each month. High-speed internet and cable packages start at about $80 per month.
It’s important to note that electricity costs can spike in the summer months due to air conditioning usage. In July and August, cooling can easily add $50-100 to the monthly electric bill for a typical home.
| Utility | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $120 |
| Natural Gas | $40 |
| Water | $80 |
| Trash | $30 |
| Internet/Cable | $80+ |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food costs will vary based on household size and dining preferences, but a typical estimate for groceries in Murrieta is around $400 per month for a single person and $1,000 per month for a family of four. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and occasional meals out.
To put this in perspective, a gallon of milk costs about $3.50, a loaf of bread is $2.80, and a pound of chicken breast is around $4 in Murrieta grocery stores. Dining out can add up quickly, with a typical fast food meal costing $8-10 and a mid-range restaurant dinner for two averaging $50-60 including tip.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Murrieta has a sales tax rate of 7.75%, which is slightly lower than some nearby cities like Temecula (8.75%). Property taxes in Riverside County are around 1.1% of the assessed home value annually. For a $500,000 home, this equates to about $5,500 per year or $458 per month.
Vehicle registration fees are another often overlooked cost. In California, the annual registration fee for a new car is about $200, plus additional charges based on the vehicle’s value. For a $25,000 car, the total annual registration cost would be around $500.
Summary Monthly Budget
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $2,100 | $2,800 | $3,200 |
| Utilities | $350 | $450 | $550 |
| Groceries & Dining | $400 | $800 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Healthcare | $200 | $500 | $800 |
| Personal & Discretionary | $250 | $400 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,600 | $5,450 | $6,850 |
| Comfortable Gross Annual Income | $52,000+ | $78,000+ | $98,000+ |
Note: These figures are broad estimates based on typical costs in Murrieta. Actual budgets can vary significantly depending on lifestyle, family size, housing choices, and income. All income figures are expressed as gross (pre-tax) amounts for clarity.
Lifestyle Considerations
Murrieta offers a suburban lifestyle with relatively easy access to job centers in San Diego, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. Many residents commute 30-60 minutes each way for work. Traffic on I-15 and I-215 can be congested during peak times.
Homes in Murrieta are generally newer and more spacious compared to coastal cities, but the tradeoff is a longer commute for many jobs. The city has ample parks, recreation centers, and outdoor activities that appeal to families.
While the overall cost of living in Murrieta is lower than areas like San Diego or Irvine, it is still above the national average. Housing is the primary driver, with home prices and rents continuing to rise. Still, for families seeking a suburban lifestyle with good schools and more space for the money, Murrieta can be an attractive choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Murrieta?
To live comfortably in Murrieta, a single person would need to earn at least $52,000 per year before taxes. Couples should aim for $78,000+ and families around $98,000+ in gross annual income.
Is Murrieta cheaper than living in San Diego?
Yes, the cost of living in Murrieta is generally 20-30% lower than San Diego, primarily due to lower housing costs. However, Murrieta residents may have higher transportation costs due to longer commutes.
Are utilities expensive in Murrieta?
Utility costs in Murrieta are fairly typical for Southern California. Expect to pay around $350 per month for electricity, gas, water, trash, and internet for a single person, with costs rising for larger households.
How much does it cost to buy a house in Murrieta?
As of 2025, the median home price in Murrieta is around $550,000. With a 10% down payment, this equates to a monthly mortgage of about $2,800-$3,200 including taxes and insurance.
What are the best neighborhoods in Murrieta for families?
Murrieta has several family-friendly neighborhoods, including Greer Ranch, Murrieta Hills, and Copper Canyon. These areas offer newer homes, community amenities, and good schools, but may come with higher price tags and HOA fees.
How does the cost of living in Murrieta compare to Temecula?
Murrieta and Temecula have a similar cost of living, with Temecula being slightly more expensive on average. Housing costs are nearly equal, but Temecula has a higher sales tax rate of 8.75% compared to Murrieta’s 7.75%.
Is Murrieta a good place to retire?
Murrieta can be a good retirement spot for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with warm weather and outdoor recreation. However, retirees on a fixed income should carefully consider the above-average housing costs and lack of walkability in most neighborhoods.
What is the job market like in Murrieta?
While Murrieta has some local job opportunities, many residents commute to larger employment centers like San Diego, Irvine, or Riverside. Common industries include healthcare, education, retail, and defense. The city’s location along I-15 and I-215 provides access to a wide range of regional employers.