Santa Ana, CA vs. Murrieta, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Santa Ana vs Murrieta. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Santa Ana vs Murrieta in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Santa Ana and Murrieta compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Santa Ana | Murrieta |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $2,400 | $1,900 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $750,000 | $550,000 |
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Housing costs are significantly lower in Murrieta compared to Santa Ana, with potential savings of $500/month on rent for a 2BR apartment or $200,000 on the purchase price of a 3BR home.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs can add up quickly. Here’s what you can expect to pay monthly in Santa Ana vs Murrieta:
- Santa Ana: $180-$220 (higher in summer for A/C)
- Murrieta: $150-$200 (more moderate year-round)
Both cities offer off-peak energy plans that can help reduce costs. Murrieta’s more inland location means less A/C usage in summer compared to coastal Santa Ana.
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Expect to pay $30-$50 less per month on utilities in Murrieta.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food is another major monthly expense. Groceries tend to cost about 5% less in Murrieta compared to Santa Ana. Eating out is also more affordable – a meal for two averages $50 in Murrieta vs $60 in Santa Ana.
🏆 Winner: Murrieta. Groceries and dining out are more budget-friendly in Murrieta.
4. Taxes and Fees
Don’t forget about taxes and city fees when comparing costs. Some key differences:
- Property tax rate: 1.15% in Santa Ana vs 1.25% in Murrieta
- Utility taxes: 6% in Santa Ana vs 0% in Murrieta
- HOA fees: $350-$450/mo typical in Santa Ana vs $200-$350/mo in Murrieta
🏆 Winner: Santa Ana. While property taxes are slightly higher in Murrieta, Santa Ana residents pay more in utility taxes and HOA fees, tipping the scales in Murrieta’s favor overall.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Santa Ana | Murrieta |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR rent) | $2,400 | $1,900 |
| Utilities | $200 | $175 |
| Groceries | $500 | $475 |
| Transportation | $100 | $150 |
| Taxes & Fees | $450 | $350 |
| Misc Costs | $250 | $200 |
| Estimated Monthly Total (Pre-Tax) | $3,900 | $3,250 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor when choosing where to live. Some other tradeoffs between Santa Ana and Murrieta:
- Commute: Santa Ana offers easier access to jobs in LA/OC. Murrieta means a longer drive.
- Climate: Santa Ana is more temperate. Murrieta averages 10°F hotter in summer.
- Vibe: Santa Ana is dense and urban. Murrieta has a slower pace and more open space.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Santa Ana more affordable than Murrieta? No, Murrieta has a lower overall cost of living, especially for housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Rent is about 20% cheaper in Murrieta compared to Santa Ana.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Murrieta home prices are significantly lower – the median is $550K vs $750K in Santa Ana.
8. Conclusion
Murrieta comes out ahead of Santa Ana in this cost of living comparison, with lower expenses across housing, utilities, groceries, and more. A household moving from Santa Ana to Murrieta might save $650/month on living costs alone.
However, the cheaper cost of living comes with tradeoffs like a longer commute and hotter summers. Ultimately, your budget, career, and lifestyle priorities will determine which city is the best fit. Be sure to check out our other cost of living resources for Santa Ana and monthly budget examples to help with your decision!