Cost of Living in San Diego, CA, United States

RESTAURANTS

There is some seriously good Mexican food in San Diego, which is just one of the perks of being a border town. You can’t find a better street truck taco, gigantic burrito, or fresher salsa anywhere else.

But, if it’s finer dining you’re after, there is a ton of great high-end restaurants as well.

MARKETS

Food, though it may not be cheaper than other areas in the country, tends to be fresh and abundant with almost every fruit and vegetable grown in the world available somewhere.

Many local and national markets are here, like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s and they both have organic sections with an extensive selection of delectable and nutritious treats.

TRANSPORTATION

The price of public transport is 3.00$ for local/neighborhood routes, as well as for urban routes, and 2.50$ for express routes.

Transfers are not available.

Day passes cost 5$.

Like the rest of California, gas is more expensive than in most other states due to the local taxes that are added.

Currently, the average in San Diego is about 3.50$ per gallon.

UTILITIES (MONTHLY)

Utilities are pretty inexpensive in San Diego too, though it does depend on the amount of electricity you use and on the size of your apartment.

For example, for a bit larger apartment, of about 85m2, all basic utilities like heating, cooling, electricity, and gas will cost you around 302$.

SPORTS & LEISURE

The weather in San Diego is ideally suited for bicycle riding, and bikes are a good way to explore the beachside communities.

The city is very bike-friendly so you can go cycling and exercise this way for free!

Going to the cinema and enjoying some movie time is expensive.

Prepare to pay around 16$ per ticket.

CLOTHING & SHOES

For those who prefer brand names like Bloomingdales, Gucci, and Apple, the famous Old Town-Mission Valley in San Diego has an open-air mall.

Just to get you familiar with the prices right away: quality jeans will cost you around 62$, and you won’t find any good running sneakers without cashing out around 100$.

RENT PER MONTH

Homes and apartments that have an ocean view, of course, will sell or rent for considerably more than units that are inland.

The proximity to downtown or public transportation is also important factors that greatly influence the affordability.

Most rents on a one-bedroom apartment might be between 2300$-2800$ on average.

A two-bedroom will be about 2,500$ – 4,500$.