Tustin, CA vs. San Bernardino, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Deciding between Tustin and San Bernardino, California? This cost of living comparison breaks down the key differences between these two cities. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a home, or renting an apartment, get the details to choose the city that fits your lifestyle and budget in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical costs compare for renting and buying in Tustin vs San Bernardino:
| Housing Type | Tustin | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,850/mo | $1,950/mo |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $950,000 | $450,000 |
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino. Housing costs significantly less in San Bernardino, with apartments renting for around $900 less per month and homes costing about half as much to buy compared to Tustin.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility and energy bills also factor into monthly expenses. Expect the following in Tustin and San Bernardino:
- Tustin: $180-$220/mo (apartment), $250-$350/mo (home)
- San Bernardino: $150-$200/mo (apartment), $200-$300/mo (home)
Both cities offer off-peak energy plans to help lower costs. Air conditioning usage will be higher in the summer in San Bernardino’s hotter inland climate.
🏆 Winner: San Bernardino has slightly lower utility costs on average, by about $30-$50/month.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For groceries and everyday items, prices are fairly comparable between Tustin and San Bernardino. Budget around $400-$600/month for a couple. Restaurant prices are also similar, averaging $12-$15 for a basic meal out.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Expect to spend about the same on food and daily expenses in either city.
4. Taxes and Fees
Don’t forget to factor in taxes and city fees:
- Tustin property tax rate: 1.08%
- San Bernardino property tax rate: 1.15%
- HOA fees in Tustin often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $200-$500/mo
- San Bernardino has fewer HOAs and lower fees, typically $100-$300/mo
🏆 Winner: Tustin. While property taxes are slightly higher in San Bernardino, Tustin’s overall tax burden is lower for most households.
5. Cost of Living in Tustin vs San Bernardino
| Expense | Tustin | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,850 | $1,950 |
| Utilities | $200 | $175 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $200 | $150 |
| Taxes | $700 | $400 |
| Misc | $500 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,950 | $3,575 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Beyond just costs, consider the lifestyle tradeoffs between Tustin and San Bernardino:
- Tustin offers more upscale housing and amenities, but less space for the money
- San Bernardino provides easier access to nature and a lower cost of living
- Commuting to Los Angeles takes about 20 minutes longer from San Bernardino than Tustin
- Summer temperatures average 10°F hotter in San Bernardino
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Tustin more affordable than San Bernardino? No, the cost of living is significantly higher in Tustin, mainly due to much more expensive housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Renting an apartment costs around $900 less per month in San Bernardino compared to Tustin.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Home prices in San Bernardino are about half what they are in Tustin, making buying much more affordable.
8. Conclusion
Tustin and San Bernardino offer two different lifestyles at very different costs. Tustin suits those wanting upscale amenities and shorter commutes who can afford the steep housing prices. San Bernardino appeals to nature lovers and anyone looking to get more for their money, if they can handle the heat and extra time on the road.
The estimated monthly cost of living is $4,950 in Tustin compared to $3,575 in San Bernardino, based on average gross (pre-tax) expenses. For more California cost of living comparisons, read our guides on [Monthly Budget Examples for Tustin Residents](/tustin-ca/monthly-budget/) and the [Cost of Living in Tustin (2025 Guide)](/tustin-ca/cost-overview/).