Murrieta, CA vs. Ontario, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

Family video chats with grandparents from their new home in Murrieta, CA
A young family shares their excitement about the extra space in their new Murrieta home during a video call with grandparents.

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
Woman looks at the view of Ontario, CA from her apartment balcony at sunset
Enjoying the view of the Ontario city lights and mountains from an apartment balcony as the sun sets.

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.