Wilsonville, OR vs. Tualatin, OR: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Wilsonville vs Tualatin. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Wilsonville vs Tualatin in 2025.
Imagine two families, the Wilsons and the Tuckers, each considering a move to the Portland suburbs. The Wilsons, a family of four, are looking at a 3-bedroom house in Wilsonville. Their estimated monthly rent is $2,400. Meanwhile, the Tuckers, a couple with one child, have their eye on a similar home in Tualatin with a rent of $2,600 per month.
When it comes to groceries, the Wilsons expect to spend around $800 monthly to feed their family in Wilsonville. The Tuckers budget $650 per month for groceries in Tualatin, given their smaller household size.
Housing Costs: Wilsonville vs Tualatin
| Housing Type | Wilsonville | Tualatin |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $1,800 | $2,000 |
| 3BR House (Rent) | $2,400 | $2,600 |
| Median Home Price | $550,000 | $600,000 |
🏆 Winner: Wilsonville
Utilities and Energy Costs
In Wilsonville, utility bills for a typical household average $180 per month. This includes electricity, natural gas, water, and sewer. Tualatin residents pay slightly more at around $200 monthly for the same utilities.
Both cities experience mild winters and warm summers. Expect a $30-50 increase in energy costs during the summer months when running air conditioning.
🏆 Winner: Wilsonville
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are comparable between Wilsonville and Tualatin. A family of four spends an average of $800-900 per month on groceries in either city. Dining out is also similarly priced, with a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costing around $60 in both locations.
However, Wilsonville has more discount grocery options like WinCo Foods and Grocery Outlet, which can lead to savings of 10-20% compared to Tualatin’s pricier organic markets.
🏆 Winner: Wilsonville
Taxes and Fees
Property tax rates are 1.4% in Wilsonville and 1.5% in Tualatin. For a $500,000 home, that’s a difference of $500 per year.
Both cities charge a $10 monthly fee for parks and recreation. However, Tualatin has an additional $5 per month street maintenance fee.
HOA fees range from $200-400 per month in Wilsonville neighborhoods. In Tualatin, expect to pay $250-450 monthly for HOAs, which often include more amenities like pools and fitness centers.
🏆 Winner: Wilsonville
Cost Summary Table
| Category | Wilsonville | Tualatin |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $2,400 | $2,600 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $800 | $850 |
| Transportation | $80 | $60 |
| Taxes & Fees | $300 | $350 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,260 | $4,560 |
Note: All income and expense figures represent gross monthly amounts (pre-tax).
Lifestyle Fit
While Wilsonville offers lower living costs overall, Tualatin provides a more walkable downtown area and closer proximity to Portland. Tualatin also has more public transportation options, with both WES Commuter Rail and bus service.
Wilsonville has a small-town feel with larger residential lots and more green space. It may appeal to those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Wilsonville averages 5°F warmer than Tualatin in the summer months.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Wilsonville more affordable than Tualatin?
- Yes, Wilsonville has a lower overall cost of living, with cheaper housing, utilities, and taxes.
- Which city has lower rent?
- Wilsonville offers lower rent prices for both apartments and single-family homes compared to Tualatin.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
- The median home price in Wilsonville is about $50,000 less than in Tualatin, making it more affordable to purchase a house.
Conclusion
For those prioritizing affordability, Wilsonville comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. Its lower housing, utility, and grocery costs make it attractive for families and those on a budget.
However, Tualatin’s walkability, transit options, and proximity to Portland may be worth the slightly higher expenses for some. It can be a good fit for commuters and those who prefer a more urban lifestyle.
Ultimately, the choice between Wilsonville and Tualatin depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. To dive deeper, read our guides on monthly budgeting in Wilsonville and the full cost of living breakdown for Wilsonville. And if you do make the move, see our 2025 moving company picks to compare quotes and find the best deal.