Road Topic Tourism & Travel
Santa Monica, a prime location in Los Angeles, is know for its high cost of living. The city is renowned for its beachfront boardwalk and pier, its vibrant nightlife, and its close proximity to Hollywood and Beverly Hills. But all this comes at a price. Is Santa Monica costly? We can take a look at the data to answer that question.
Santa Monica is one of the most expensive cities in the US. The median home sales price in the city was close to $1.8 million in 2018 according to Zillow. In comparison, the median home value for Los Angeles county was $600,000. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Santa Monica was over $2,900 per month, according to Zumper. In comparison, the median rent for a one bedroom apartment in Los Angeles was $1,850 per month. Santa Monica residents pay an average of $4.40 per gallon for gasoline, compared to an average of $2.90 per gallon across California.
Santa Monica is also home to some of the most expensive restaurants and bars in the US. The average cost of a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant in the city is over $100, according to Numbeo. The highest-end restaurants can cost several hundred dollars per person for a meal. The city also has some of the most expensive bars, with average prices ranging from $15 to $25 for a cocktail.
Santa Monica is also one of the most expensive places to shop in Los Angeles. Prices for clothing, electronics, and other items tend to be higher than in other parts of the city. Even basic groceries can be expensive in some parts of the city. A gallon of milk can cost up to $5 in some stores.
It is clear that Santa Monica is a costly place to live, shop, and eat. For those looking to live in the area, it is important to consider the high cost of living before making the move.
The Cost of Living in Santa Monica – A Comprehensive Analysis
Santa Monica is one of the most popular coastal cities in California. Located just west of Los Angeles, it is known for its beautiful beaches, numerous attractions, and vibrant nightlife. But how much does it cost to live in Santa Monica? In this comprehensive analysis, we take a look at the cost of living in Santa Monica, from rent to groceries.
Rent is one of the biggest expenses when it comes to living in Santa Monica. According to Rent Jungle, the average rent for an apartment in Santa Monica is $3,615 per month. This is slightly higher than the average rent in Los Angeles County, which is $2,906 per month. It is important to note that these figures do not include additional expenses such as utilities and parking.
Utilities and other services in Santa Monica also tend to be higher than the national average. According to Numbeo, the average cost of basic utilities such as electricity, water, and garbage collection for a 915 square foot apartment is $152.44 per month. This is higher than the national average of $134.81 per month.
Groceries are also more expensive in Santa Monica than the national average. According to Expatistan, the average cost of a basic grocery basket in Santa Monica is $105.75, which is higher than the national average of $91.86. Also, the cost of dining out in Santa Monica is more expensive than the national average, with an average meal costing $14.50 compared to the national average of $12.75.
In terms of transportation, Santa Monica is served by the Santa Monica Big Blue Bus system. According to their website, a single ride ticket costs $1.75. Monthly passes are available for $45, and an annual pass costs $420. The Los Angeles Metro system also serves Santa Monica, and tickets are priced similarly.
In summary, the cost of living in Santa Monica is slightly higher than the national average. Rent prices are significantly higher, and utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are all higher than the national average. Before making the move, it is important to be aware of the additional expenses associated with living in Santa Monica.
Exploring the Hidden Expenses of Santa Monica – Is it Really Expensive?
Are you considering relocating to Santa Monica? This idyllic beachside city is in high demand, with many people seeking to make the move. But what are the hidden costs of living in Santa Monica, and is it really as expensive as you might think? We take a look at the real cost of Santa Monica living.
The real estate market in Santa Monica is highly competitive. There are many high-end homes and condos, and prices can quickly become prohibitive. The median sales price for a single family home in Santa Monica was $2.8 million in 2025, a 25% increase from 2019. Condos and townhouses are slightly more affordable, with the median price at $1.3 million in 2025. Rentals are also costly, with the median price for a two-bedroom rental close to $4,000 per month.
Although the rental market in Santa Monica is expensive, it is possible to find more affordable options. The Santa Monica City Council has passed ordinances to create more affordable housing in the city. In particular, the Santa Monica Affordable Housing Production Program has helped to create more options for those with limited incomes. There are also several low-income housing programs that offer assistance.
Another hidden cost of living in Santa Monica is the cost of daily living. Utilities, groceries, and other basic necessities can all be costly. Average utility costs are higher than the national average, and many grocery stores carry premium items that can be expensive. However, there are also many more affordable options in the area, as well as a number of farmers markets and community gardens that offer fresh produce at a fraction of the cost.
One of the most appealing features of living in Santa Monica is its proximity to Los Angeles. However, this also means commuting costs can be high. Many residents opt for public transportation, such as the Los Angeles Metro Rail or the Santa Monica Big Blue Bus. However, for those who choose to drive, the cost of gas and parking can quickly add up.
Cost of Living in Santa Monica
| Category | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Housing | $2.8 million (median home sale price) |
| Utilities | Above the national average |
| Groceries | More expensive than average |
| Transportation | Varies depending on mode of transportation |
Overall, living in Santa Monica can be expensive. However, there are also many ways to keep your monthly costs down. With careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to live in Santa Monica without breaking the bank.
