Murrieta, CA vs. Ontario, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Murrieta vs Ontario. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Murrieta vs Ontario in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how Murrieta and Ontario compare for typical housing options:
| Housing Type | Murrieta | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,100 | $2,400 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $550,000 | $650,000 |
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Housing costs an estimated 14% less in Murrieta compared to Ontario.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs can add up fast. Monthly bills for a typical household:
- Murrieta: $180-$220 (electric, gas, water, trash)
- Ontario: $200-$240 (electric, gas, water, trash)
Both cities have similar climates, so expect 20-30% higher electric bills in summer for A/C.
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Utility costs trend about 10% lower in Murrieta.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food and everyday items are key budget factors. On average:
- Groceries cost 5% less in Murrieta than Ontario
- Gas prices are nearly identical
- Eating out costs 10% less in Murrieta
🏆 Winner: Murrieta, but not by much. Expect to save $50-100/month on food and daily expenses.
4. Taxes and Fees
Don’t overlook taxes and city fees in your budget:
- Property tax rate: 1.15% in Murrieta, 1.25% in Ontario
- Utility taxes: 5% on cable and phone in Murrieta, 5.5% in Ontario
- HOA fees: $200-400/month in most Murrieta neighborhoods, $250-450 in Ontario
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Lower property taxes can save thousands per year, and utility taxes add up.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Murrieta | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,100 | $2,400 |
| Utilities | $200 | $220 |
| Groceries | $500 | $525 |
| Transportation | $200 | $200 |
| Taxes | $525 | $625 |
| Misc | $400 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,925 | $4,420 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Cost isn’t everything – consider how each city fits your lifestyle:
- Murrieta offers more space and a quieter suburban feel
- Ontario has better walkability and public transit
- Ontario averages 5°F warmer than Murrieta in summer
- Commuting from Murrieta takes 15-20 min longer
7. FAQ
- Is Murrieta more affordable than Ontario? Yes, the cost of living is about 12% lower in Murrieta.
- Which city has lower rent? Rent prices are around 14% cheaper in Murrieta.
- Where is it less expensive to buy a home? Murrieta home prices are about 18% lower than Ontario.
8. Conclusion
Murrieta offers a lower cost of living across the board – an estimated $495 in monthly savings for a typical household. Families looking for affordable space and a quiet community will appreciate Murrieta. Professionals who value shorter commutes and urban amenities may prefer Ontario despite the higher cost.
Budgeting for a move? Check out these Monthly Budget Examples for Murrieta Residents. Or see our full Cost of Living in Murrieta (2025 Guide) for more details.