Thinking of moving to San Diego in 2025? With its sunny beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and growing job market, it’s no surprise people are drawn here.
However, be aware that the average cost of living in San Diego is approximately 45% higher than the national average. It’s pricier than most cities, but it offers a lifestyle that many find worth the investment. Let’s dive into what that really means for your budget and daily life.
TL;DR: Average Cost of Living in San Diego 2025
- Cost of living in San Diego: is 45% above the national average.
- Median home price: ~$932,000; average 2-bedroom rent: ~$3,000/month.
- Utilities cost $300–$350/month; electricity rates are the highest in the U.S.
- Groceries cost $300–$350/month; electricity rates are the highest in the U.S.
- Comfortable single income: $85,000–$100,000 annually.
- Childcare averages $22,400 per year.
- Neighborhoods range from luxury La Jolla to trendy North Park.
- Lifestyle benefits: sunshine, beaches, strong job market.
What is the Average Cost of Living in San Diego in 2025?
San Diego’s price tag isn’t for the faint-hearted, but understanding the numbers makes it manageable. You’ll want to budget roughly $85,000 to $100,000 a year for a comfortable solo life here. That covers everything—from rent or mortgage to groceries, utilities, and getting around town.
Here’s the snapshot:
- Rent or mortgage: Expect to pay between $2,000 and $3,000 monthly, depending on whether you’re renting a cozy studio in bustling Hillcrest or eyeing a family home in quieter Carmel Valley.
- Utilities: Running your home (electricity, gas, water, internet) averages $300 to $350 per month—more than you’d pay in Phoenix but typical for coastal California.
- Groceries: Filling your fridge in neighborhoods like Little Italy or Pacific Beach will cost you about $600 to $800 monthly, with food prices steadily creeping up thanks to inflation.
- Transportation: Whether you’re cruising the Pacific Coast Highway or hopping on the MTS trolley downtown, gas and transit will set you back around $150 to $200 each month.
- Healthcare & childcare: These essential expenses push the annual budget higher, especially for families facing head-spinning childcare costs upwards of $22,000 annually.
San Diego sits about 3% below the California average but remains a standout compared to the rest of the country, so you’re investing in lifestyle as much as living spaces here. Keep in mind: the sunny skies often make these costs feel worthwhile.
Housing and Rental Market in San Diego
When it comes to housing, San Diego home prices challenge you to find your sweet spot. The average rent in San Diego, California for a modest studio apartment hovers around $2,030, while two-bedroom units push closer to $2,970 a month.
Looking for more breathing room? Homebuyers face a median price near $932,000—a figure that makes neighborhoods like La Jolla sparkle with luxury but prices the casual buyer out.
If you’re drawn to vibrant community hubs, places like North Park offer a mix of trendy eateries and more affordable apartments, while Mission Valley presents convenient access and mid-range prices.
For those ready to plant roots, consider exploring the latest San Diego homes for sale on Houzeo. The platform offers everything from cozy starter houses to spacious family homes.
Compared to coastal giants like San Francisco, San Diego is a relative bargain—about 27% cheaper home prices—and slightly more affordable than Los Angeles. Still, San Diego’s housing market demands financial savvy, so knowing your budget and priorities can make all the difference here.
Utilities and Other Living Expenses in San Diego
Average cost of utilities in San Diego stands out nationally, especially electricity, which is the highest in the U.S., with rates at 38.3¢ per kWh—significantly above California’s average of 25-30¢ per kWh. Monthly utilities, including water and gas, generally cost between $300 and $350.
Grocery costs range from $600 to $800 monthly, somewhat below other major California cities but still above the national average. Transportation includes gasoline priced between $4.59 and $4.91 per gallon, with public transit fares averaging a reasonable $72 per month.
Healthcare and childcare add substantial costs. For example, annual infant care can cost $22,400 here, higher than the national average. Altogether, these living expenses shape the day-to-day financial reality of living in San Diego, California.
Income, Affordability, and Job Market
To comfortably afford San Diego’s living expenses, individuals typically need an average salary between $85,000 and $100,000 per year. Families of four generally require at least $140,000 annually to maintain a similar comfort level.
Median household income is around $102,300 to $103,476 in San Diego, closely matching the lower bounds of comfort but indicating a tighter budget for many residents compared to cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco.
Strong employment sectors, including biotechnology, military installations, and growing tech companies, continue to provide lucrative job opportunities for earners at various levels.
Is San Diego Expensive to Live In?
Many ask, “Is San Diego expensive to live in?” The short answer is yes, it is costly compared to most U.S. cities, but it offers a balance of benefits that few others do.
San Diego boasts 260+ sunny days annually and year-round outdoor activities, including beach access and hiking spots within two hours. This lifestyle, combined with solid professional opportunities and lower commuting stress than larger metro areas, helps justify the premium.
Still, affordability is a challenge: only 19% of residents can afford to buy homes comfortably, and energy and childcare costs are among the highest nationally. The city offers vibrant neighborhoods, diverse recreation, and cultural events that many find worth the price tag.
Neighborhood Insights: Costs and Lifestyle Across San Diego
- La Jolla: High-end coastal living with luxury homes above $1.2M; excellent schools and beaches.
- North Park: Trendy urban neighborhood with rents around $2,500+, appealing to young professionals.
- Mission Valley: Mid-range housing and rents; central location with accessible transit.
- Pacific Beach: Popular beach community, slightly higher rents but great lifestyle and nightlife.
Each area influences your budget differently, balancing commute times, schooling, and amenities—important factors in the overall cost of living in San Diego, CA.
Practical Relocation Tips for 2025 Movers
Moving to San Diego, CA means preparing for higher upfront housing and utility costs. Here are some relocation tips:
- Budget extra for initial deposits and utility setups, and consider neighborhoods aligning with financial comfort levels.
- Plan for transportation costs if you commute by car; gas is expensive, but public transit is a budget-friendly option.
- Families should research childcare providers early since costs are steep and availability is limited in some areas.
- Use resources like city utility sites and Houzeo’s San Diego homes for sale to navigate the complex local market smoothly.
Is San Diego Worth It?
Is San Diego, CA a good place to live? Beyond its premium costs, San Diego offers unmatched lifestyle advantages in 2025. The cost of living in San Diego, CA is notably above national averages but remains more affordable than prime coastal cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
For those seeking a balanced investment in quality of life, career opportunities, and vibrant urban culture, San Diego can be an excellent choice.
👉 Start your home search today by exploring the latest San Diego homes for sale on Houzeo and discover neighborhoods that fit your budget and lifestyle.
FAQs About the Cost of Living in San Diego, California
1. What is the cost of living in San Diego, CA?
The cost of living in San Diego, CA is about 45% higher than the national average, driven largely by housing and utilities.
2. Is San Diego, CA a good place to live?
Yes, thanks to its mild climate, outdoor activities, and strong job markets, it’s highly desirable despite higher expenses.
3. What is the average rent in San Diego?
Average rent in San Diego ranges from $2,030 for studios to nearly $3,000 for two-bedroom apartments.
4. How much are utility costs in San Diego?
Monthly utilities run roughly $300-$350, with electricity prices among the highest in the country.
5. Is living in San Diego, California expensive?
Yes, San Diego is expensive but with trade-offs in lifestyle and opportunities that many find worth the cost.
