Murrieta, CA vs. Chino Hills, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Murrieta vs Chino Hills. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Murrieta vs Chino Hills in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Murrieta and Chino Hills compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Murrieta | Chino Hills |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,100 | $2,400 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $550,000 | $750,000 |
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Housing costs an estimated 14% less in Murrieta compared to Chino Hills.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs can add up fast. Monthly bills for a typical household:
- Murrieta: $180-$220
- Chino Hills: $200-$240
Both cities have similar climates, so expect 20-30% higher utility bills in summer for air conditioning.
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Utility costs run about 10% lower in Murrieta vs Chino Hills.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For groceries and everyday items, Murrieta has the edge:
- Weekly grocery costs for a family of 4 average $200 in Murrieta compared to $225 in Chino Hills.
- Eating out is about 5% cheaper in Murrieta. A basic meal out for two costs around $45 vs $50 in Chino Hills.
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Expect to spend 10-15% less on food and daily expenses in Murrieta compared to Chino Hills.
4. Taxes and Fees
Don’t overlook taxes and city fees in your budget:
- Property tax rates are 1.15% in Murrieta vs 1.20% in Chino Hills
- Murrieta HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $200-500/month
- Chino Hills has slightly higher city service fees for utilities and parking
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Lower property taxes can save hundreds per year, although HOA fees are common.
5. Cost of Living in Murrieta vs Chino Hills
| Category | Murrieta | Chino Hills |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,100 | $2,400 |
| Utilities | $200 | $220 |
| Groceries | $800 | $900 |
| Transportation | $500 | $550 |
| Taxes & Fees | $400 | $450 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $550 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,500 in Murrieta | $5,070 in Chino Hills |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor in choosing where to live. Also consider:
- Chino Hills offers more walkable neighborhoods and public transit. Commute times average 15 minutes longer from Murrieta.
- Murrieta has lower population density. Enjoy larger yards and more space between neighbors.
- Both cities get hot in summer, but Murrieta averages 5°F cooler than Chino Hills in July.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Murrieta more affordable than Chino Hills?
Yes, Murrieta has a lower overall cost of living. A household moving from Chino Hills to Murrieta might save $400/month on housing alone. - Which city has lower rent?
Murrieta rent prices are about 14% lower than Chino Hills. Typical rent for a 2BR apartment is $2,100 in Murrieta vs $2,400 in Chino Hills. - Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Murrieta home prices are significantly lower. The median price of a 3BR home is around $550,000 in Murrieta compared to $750,000 in Chino Hills.
8. Conclusion
While both cities offer a high quality of life, Murrieta comes out ahead on cost of living. Families and professionals can save on major expenses like housing and food without sacrificing lifestyle. However, Chino Hills may be worth the premium for those who value walkability and shorter commutes.
Budgeting for a move to Murrieta? Check out these Monthly Budget Examples for Murrieta Residents. Or get a full breakdown of Cost of Living in Murrieta (2025 Guide).