Cost of Living in Tualatin, OR: What You’ll Really Spend in 2025

Housing Costs in Tualatin

Housing is typically the largest expense for residents in Tualatin, Oregon. In 2025, the median home price in Tualatin is around $650,000 for a 3-bedroom single-family home. Prices can vary significantly by neighborhood and property type:

• Newer homes in master-planned communities like Stafford Meadows or Tualatin Meadows often sell for $750,000 to $900,000.
• Older homes in established neighborhoods like Martinazzi Woods or Ibach are more affordable, with prices typically ranging from $550,000 to $700,000.
• Townhomes and condos provide a lower-cost option, generally selling for $400,000 to $550,000.

For renters, a typical 2-bedroom apartment in Tualatin costs between $1,800 and $2,400 per month. Prices are higher for newer luxury units and lower for older complexes. Many neighborhoods have HOA fees ranging from $200 to $400 per month, an important cost to factor in.

Utilities and Energy Bills

Utility costs in Tualatin are slightly higher than the national average. Residents can expect to pay around $180 per month for a combination of electricity, natural gas, water, and trash service for a 1,000 square foot apartment. Larger homes will have higher utility bills.

Energy bills tend to be highest in the summer months when air conditioning drives up electricity use. Winter heating costs are more moderate. Here’s a rough breakdown of typical monthly utility costs:

Groceries and Daily Expenses

Food costs in Tualatin are on par with the Portland metro average. Expect to budget around $400 per month per person for groceries and household essentials. This assumes a mix of home cooking and occasional restaurant meals. Dining out regularly will increase your food budget.

Here are some typical prices for everyday items in Tualatin:

• Gallon of milk: $3.50
• Loaf of bread: $3.00
• Dozen eggs: $3.00
• Fast food meal: $8.00
• Restaurant dinner for two: $50-80

Taxes and Fees

Tualatin residents pay a property tax rate of $14.50 per $1,000 of assessed home value. For a $650,000 home, that equates to about $785 per month. Oregon has no sales tax, which helps offset the higher property taxes compared to some states.

Vehicle registration fees in Tualatin are $112 for two years, or about $5 per month. Drivers must also pay for auto insurance. Full coverage insurance averages $130 per month, but rates vary based on vehicle type, driving record, and coverage level.

Monthly Cost of Living in Tualatin

So what does it really cost to live comfortably in Tualatin? Here’s a high-level monthly budget breakdown, based on gross income (before taxes). Keep in mind these are averages and your specific costs may be higher or lower.

Based on these estimates, a single person needs to earn around $52,000 per year ($4,350 per month) to live comfortably in Tualatin. A couple would need a combined gross income of $79,000 ($6,560 per month). For a family of four, a comfortable lifestyle requires a household income of about $113,000 ($9,440 per month).

Lifestyle Considerations

Tualatin offers a high quality of life for those who can afford it. The city has top-rated schools, low crime rates, abundant parks and green spaces, and convenient access to Portland’s urban amenities. Most neighborhoods are family-friendly with a mix of newer homes and established tree-lined streets.

However, Tualatin’s desirable lifestyle comes at a cost. Housing is more expensive than in many other parts of the country, and even than some Portland suburbs. Newer homes with modern features in amenity-rich neighborhoods command a premium.

Residents generally need to choose between a longer commute with a more affordable home further out, or paying more to live closer in. Traffic congestion is an issue, so living near work or WES stations is convenient, but also pricier. Those willing to take on a “fixer-upper” in an older neighborhood can find more affordable options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What salary do you need to live in Tualatin?
To live comfortably, a single person needs to earn at least $52,000 per year ($4,350 per month before taxes). A family of four would need around $113,000 per year ($9,440 per month) to have a similar lifestyle.

How much is the average rent in Tualatin?

As of 2025, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Tualatin is $2,100 per month. Prices range from $1,800 for older units up to $2,400 for luxury apartments.

Are utilities expensive in Tualatin?
Utility costs in Tualatin are slightly above the national average. The typical monthly utility bill is around $180 for an apartment or $290 for a house, including electricity, gas, water, and trash service.

How much do I need to make to buy a house in Tualatin?
To afford the median home price of $650,000 with a 10% down payment, you’d need to earn around $160,000 per year ($13,300 per month) to keep your housing costs under 30% of your income.

What are the most affordable neighborhoods in Tualatin?
Some of the more affordable Tualatin neighborhoods are Ibach, Martinazzi Woods, and Tualatin Commons. Homes there are older but often priced under $600,000.

How much does it cost to eat out in Tualatin?
A basic fast food meal in Tualatin costs around $8, while a typical restaurant dinner for two ranges from $50 to $80. Assuming a mix of home cooking and dining out, budget at least $400 per person per month for food.

Is Tualatin cheaper than Portland?
Housing costs in Tualatin are slightly lower than in Portland proper. However, Tualatin is still one of the pricier suburbs, on par with Lake Oswego or West Linn. It’s more expensive than areas like Beaverton or Gresham.