Cost of Living in Anaheim, CA 2025

Anaheim continues to attract new residents in 2025 with its central location in Orange County, diverse job opportunities, and vibrant mix of entertainment, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. The city offers a variety of neighborhoods, access to beautiful parks and beaches, renowned dining options, and pleasant weather year-round.

Unlike larger metros that struggle with extreme housing costs and traffic, Anaheim provides a balance of urban convenience and suburban space, making it appealing for those seeking both lifestyle and opportunity.

Compared to more expensive cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, Anaheim offers relatively more affordable housing and lower overall living costs. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Anaheim is $3,164, while similar housing in Los Angeles averages $3,975.

In the sections below, we’ll break down the true cost of living in Anaheim so you can decide whether it’s right for your needs in 2025.

Note: We used internal data and cross-referenced with data from Apartments.com to give you the most accurate snapshot of rents as of September 2025. Other sources include Sperling’s BestPlaces, Numbeo, and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.

Cost of Living in Anaheim

What Is the Cost of Living in Anaheim?

Anaheim is pricier than other similar U.S. cities. On average, it’s about 64.9% higher than the US average. However, it’s 10% lower than the average for California.

According to our latest data, most popular neighborhoods in Anaheim have two-bedroom apartments at $3,000 and up. A two-bedroom apartment in Sycamore Canyon can be $3,400 or more, while units in Anaheim Hills are slightly more affordable at $3,129.

Where Is the Cost of Living Highest in Anaheim, CA?

Platinum Triangle has some of the highest living costs in Anaheim, with one-bedrooms averaging $2,826 and two-bedroom rents averaging $3,530 per month, significantly higher than the California average and the national averages of $1,575 (one bedrooms) and $1,828 (two bedrooms).

Where Is the Cost of Living Most Affordable in Anaheim, CA?

Anaheim Hills is slightly more affordable than other neighborhoods, with one-bedroom rents averaging $2,526 per month and two-bedrooms at $3,129.

What Is the Average Rent in Anaheim, CA?

As of September 2025, the overall median rent in Anaheim is $2,313, based on Apartment List data. The one-bedroom median rent is $1,907, while two-bedroom apartments are $2,377.

For Anaheim:

Other major cities:

How Much Is a One-Bedroom Apartment in Anaheim, CA?

As of September 2025, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Anaheim is $1,907. The one-bedroom average is $2,467. Prices differ by neighborhood.

Platinum Triangle apartments fall around $2,826 while areas like Anaheim Hills are closer to $2,526. Rent can fluctuate depending on area, amenities, and the age of the building.

How Much Is a Two-Bedroom Apartment in Anaheim, CA?

The median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Anaheim is $2,377 as of August 2025. The two-bedroom average is $3,164.

The final cost depends on factors like location, unit size, and amenities.

How Much Is Housing in Anaheim?

The median home sale price in Anaheim is around $914,000. That’s notably higher than the national median of $439,894.

Thanks to ongoing development and relatively moderate year-over-year price growth compared to some nearby markets, Anaheim can be a good option for buyers who find cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco out of reach.

What Salary Do I Need to Live in Anaheim, CA?

A common rule of thumb for housing affordability is the 30% rule, meaning you should spend no more than 30% of your gross income on rent. Based on the median one-bedroom rent of $1,907 in Anaheim, you’d need to earn at least $76,284 per year, or $6,357 per month, to stay within the 30% income rule. That breaks down to about $36.68 per hour for a full-time worker. If you’re targeting a two-bedroom at the median $2,377, the required income jumps to $95,080 per year.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Anaheim’s median household income is $101,145. That is notably higher than the national median of $81,604.

Keep in mind that costs beyond rent—such as utilities, groceries, and transportation—can quickly add up. To see what fits comfortably within your budget, use the Apartment List Rent Calculator, which helps you find housing options based on your income.

For more detailed data, the MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates that a single adult without children in Anaheim needs to earn $28.88 per hour to cover basic needs like food, housing, and healthcare and remain above the poverty threshold. That number does not* *include savings contributions, travel costs, or debt repayments.

How Much Is Transportation in Anaheim, CA?

The MIT Living Wage Calculator data breaks down typical car-based transportation expenses for different household types in the Anaheim region.

Anaheim is largely car-dependent for daily transportation. While the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) operates bus routes throughout Anaheim and the broader county, service frequency and coverage can be limited. Major roads like the I-5, State Route 91, and the 57 Freeway often experience heavy congestion during peak commute times. As a result, driving continues to be the most practical way for most residents to get around.

In terms of walkability, Walk Score data highlights Anaheim neighborhoods where you can go car-free:

• The Colony (walk score 67): Highly walkable with tree-lined streets, local bus service from OCTA, and bike-friendly roads.
• West Anaheim (walk score 63): Access to multiple OCTA bus lines, nearby shopping centers, schools, and parks.

For those who depend on public transportation or choose to live without a car, these neighborhoods provide the easiest access to getting around the city.

How Much Are Groceries in Anaheim?

According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult without children in the Anaheim area spends at least $4,458 per year on food, while a two-adult household with two children averages $13,068 annually. That breaks down to about $372 per month for a solo renter and $1,089 monthly for a four-person family, covering groceries and basic meals at home.

Eating out in Anaheim can be affordable, depending on where you go. According to Numbeo, an average meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around $22.50, while a three-course dinner for two at a midrange spot averages around $77.50.

Regularly dining out or ordering takeout can significantly increase your monthly food expenses.

How Much Is Child Care in Anaheim, CA?

Child care is a substantial expense for families living in the Anaheim area. According to MIT Living Wage data for Anaheim, child care costs for one child average $13,438 per year. For two children, annual child care costs more than double to around $26,669.

That breaks down to around $1,120 monthly for one child, and $2,222 per month for two. These costs play a major role in determining the local living wage for parents and are an important consideration when planning a household budget.

Since child care can be such a major expense, families might consider different ways to ease the financial pressure. This could include arranging flexible or remote work hours, finding child care providers in less expensive neighborhoods or with quicker availability, or coordinating shared caregiving with relatives or close friends.

How Much Is Healthcare in Anaheim, CA?

Using data from the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult without children typically spends around $2,625 per year on healthcare, including insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs. For a family of two working adults and two children, healthcare expenses rise to approximately $9,430 annually.

How Much Are Utilities in Anaheim, CA?

A 915-square-foot Anaheim apartment has average monthly utility costs (electricity, heating and cooling, water, garbage) of $157.48, which is about 25% lower than the national average of $209.99.

On top of that, a mobile phone plan (10 GB plus voice) averages $53.67 per month, while high-speed internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data) runs about $62.33 per month, bringing the overall monthly total to $273.48.

Anaheim has warm, dry summers with average high temperatures in the 80s and 90s, occasionally climbing into the low 100s during heatwaves. While the coastal influence helps moderate extreme temperatures, it’s still smart to budget for increased energy use during peak summer months.

Anaheim, CA Fitness and Entertainment

Anaheim offers a wide range of affordable ways to stay active and entertained, from scenic parks and recreational centers to vibrant cultural events and local attractions.

Outdoor Activities and Local Favorites

Anaheim is home to dozens of public parks and outdoor spaces. Yorba Regional Park is a local favorite, featuring over 140 acres of trails, lakes, picnic areas, and bike paths along the Santa Ana River Trail. Pearson Park offers walking paths, a public pool, tennis courts, and seasonal events at the Pearson Park Amphitheatre.

Just a short drive away, Oak Canyon Nature Center offers hiking trails through oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub—perfect for quick escapes into nature without leaving the city.

Gym Memberships and Alternatives

According to Numbeo, the average monthly fitness club fee in Anaheim is about $79.67 per person. This is higher than the national average.

Many residents also use public fitness amenities through Anaheim Community Services, which operates several low-cost recreation centers, pools, and sports programs.

Additionally, a number of apartment complexes in areas like Platinum Triangle and The Colony feature on-site fitness centers as part of their amenities.

Entertainment Costs and Budget Options

Anaheim offers budget-friendly entertainment alongside world-famous attractions. While Disneyland and nearby theme parks are major draws, locals often enjoy more affordable experiences like the Anaheim Packing District, Center Street Anaheim, and Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center, which hosts rotating art exhibits and community events.

Free outdoor concerts, seasonal festivals, and farmers markets provide plenty of options for entertainment without breaking the bank.

How Much Are Taxes in Anaheim, CA?

Anaheim’s combined sales tax rate is 7.75%, which includes the California state sales tax and local district taxes. Unlike some cities, Anaheim does not impose an additional city-specific sales tax on top of the standard local rate.

California does have a state income tax, which ranges from 1% to 13.3%, depending on your income level. This can be a significant factor in your overall tax burden compared to states with no income tax.

While sales taxes in Anaheim are moderate by California standards, residents also face relatively high property taxes, with Orange County’s average effective property tax rate around 0.73%. For homeowners, this directly affects housing costs, and renters may experience indirect effects through higher rent.

Compared to other states with no income tax, California’s tax structure can be more burdensome. Still, it’s important to consider income, sales, property, and other local taxes to get the full picture.

Anaheim Job Market

Anaheim is a key player in Orange County’s thriving economy, with steady job growth and competitive wages. There are strong employment opportunities in tourism, healthcare, education, and advanced manufacturing.

In July 2025, Anaheim’s unemployment rate was 4.8%, slightly below the California rate (5.5%) and above the national rate (4.3%). The area’s average hourly wage was $21.79, below the state average ($26.47) and national average ($28.16).

Find Your Next Apartment in Anaheim, CA

Anaheim’s central location and diverse job market make it an attractive option for students, families, and professionals alike. Whether you're looking for convenient access to entertainment hubs, walkable neighborhoods, or a quieter suburban setting, Anaheim offers a variety of housing options to match your lifestyle and budget.

Thinking about making a move? Kick-start your search with the personalized Apartment List quiz. It only takes five minutes and can save you hours of scrolling.

What to Know About the Cost of Living in Anaheim 2025

How expensive is an apartment in Anaheim?

As of September 2025, the median rent for all apartment sizes in Anaheim is $2,313 per month, with one-bedroom units at a median of $1,983 and two-bedroom units at $2,447.

What is the cheapest rent in Anaheim?

One-bedroom apartments in neighborhoods like Anaheim Hills can be slightly more affordable than other neighborhoods, around $2,526 per month.

How expensive is it to live in Anaheim?

Using the most affordable rent example of $2,526 per month and adding estimated annual costs for food ($4,458), transportation ($9,798), utilities ($273.48), and healthcare ($2,625) for a single adult without children, total annual essential living expenses fall around $19,680.48. This does not account for savings, debt repayment, or discretionary spending.

How far is Anaheim from Los Angeles?

Anaheim is 27 miles away from Los Angeles. It takes 49 minutes to get to Los Angeles from Anaheim by car, 33 hours by bike, and 10 hours by foot.

How far is Anaheim from San Diego?

Anaheim is 95.3 miles away from San Diego. It takes 1 hour and 50 minutes to get to San Diego from Anaheim by car, 10 hours by bike, and 34 hours by foot.

What is the population of Anaheim?

As of the latest census, Anaheim has a population of approximately 346,824 people, making it one of the top 10 most populous cities in California.

What is a good salary in Anaheim?

Based on the 30% rent rule, a median one-bedroom rent of $1,907 requires a gross annual income of around $76,284 per year, or $36.68 per hour for full-time work.

The MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates a living wage as a single adult without children at $28.88 per hour to remain above the poverty threshold.

The U.S. Census Bureau estimates Anaheim’s median household income at $101,145.