Perris, CA vs. Ontario, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Perris or Ontario? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Perris and Ontario, perfect for anyone relocating, choosing between job offers, or comparing the real cost of living in these two California cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical housing costs compare in Perris vs Ontario:
| Housing Type | Perris | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $450,000 | $550,000 |
| Mortgage Payment (20% down) | $1,800/mo | $2,200/mo |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,600/mo | $1,900/mo |
🏆 Winner: Perris. Housing costs, both for renting and buying, are notably lower in Perris compared to Ontario.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are a significant monthly expense. In Perris, expect to pay around $180/month for a typical household’s electricity, gas, water, and trash. Ontario utility costs are similar, averaging $190/month.
Both cities experience hot summers, so air conditioning usage can drive up electric bills from June through September. Look for off-peak usage plans to save.
🏆 Winner: Perris, but only slightly. Utility costs are comparable between the two cities.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs in Perris and Ontario are fairly similar, with Perris coming in about 5% cheaper on average. A gallon of milk runs $3.50 in Perris vs $3.70 in Ontario. Restaurant prices are also comparable, though Ontario has a few more upscale dining options that can increase the average meal out.
🏆 Winner: Perris, with a small edge on grocery and daily living costs.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both cities have a sales tax rate of 7.75%. However, property taxes are higher in Ontario at an average effective rate of 1.15% vs 1.05% in Perris.
City service fees like trash and sewer are wrapped into utility bills in both places. HOA fees in Perris often include landscaping and neighborhood amenities, ranging from $200-400/month. Ontario HOAs are pricier at $250-500/month.
🏆 Winner: Perris. Lower property taxes and HOA fees give it the advantage.
5. Cost Summary
| Expense | Perris | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage or Rent) | $1,800 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $180 | $190 |
| Groceries | $400 | $420 |
| Transportation | $300 | $280 |
| Taxes (Property) | $395 | $525 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,575 | $4,115 |
Note: Figures above are estimates for a typical household, expressed as gross monthly costs (pre-tax).
6. Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor in choosing between Perris and Ontario. Also consider:
- Perris offers more space for the money, with larger homes and lots.
- Ontario has better public transit and easier airport access.
- Perris is about 5°F hotter than Ontario in the summer months.
- Ontario has a more walkable downtown with dining and entertainment.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Perris more affordable than Ontario?
A: Yes, Perris has a lower overall cost of living, mainly due to cheaper housing, lower taxes, and slightly lower food and utility costs.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Perris has lower average rents, with a typical 2BR apartment renting for about $300 less per month than in Ontario.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Median home prices in Perris are about $100,000 less than in Ontario, translating to a mortgage payment that’s $400 lower per month.
8. Conclusion
While both Perris and Ontario offer a suburban lifestyle in the Inland Empire region, Perris comes out ahead in affordability. Housing is the biggest difference, with costs being 15-20% lower to rent or buy in Perris.
Perris is ideal for those seeking more space on a budget, while Ontario appeals to buyers who prioritize amenities and transit access. To fully understand how your budget stacks up in each city, check out these sample monthly budgets for Perris and detailed cost of living breakdowns.
Ultimately, the choice between Perris and Ontario depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle priorities. We hope this comparison of the cost of living in Perris vs Ontario helps inform your decision! Be sure to explore our other cost of living articles for cities across California.