Cost of Living in San Diego

The cost of living in San Diego runs slightly higher than the state average and roughly 45 percent higher than the national average. If you’re moving to San Diego, you’ll typically earn lucrative salaries and can afford to get by comfortably, although rent costs can put a serious dent in your budget.

Cost of accommodation in San Diego

Accommodation costs in San Diego rank among the highest in the USA. This rising expense has been fuelled by the city’s population growth, which has led to increased housing demand.

San Diego has sky-high rental prices, but some areas and suburbs offer more affordable housing. Neighbourhoods such as City Heights, Mountain View and Paradise Hills provide reasonably priced options in the central and southeastern parts of the city.

Over and above rental costs, you’ll also need to account for an initial security deposit along with monthly utilities. Fortunately, San Diego’s weather is temperate for most of the year, which helps keep electricity usage down despite the city having some of the highest electricity rates in the country.

Accommodation in San Diego
Areas and Suburbs in San Diego

Cost of transport in San Diego

Public transport in San Diego covers the city well and generally runs efficiently. Commuting costs in San Diego are reasonable and generally in line with state averages. If you’re a regular traveller, you can reduce these costs by purchasing a reloadable PRONTO card that offers discounts.

If you’re looking to explore outside the city centre, you’ll likely need a car, but this comes at a high cost. In addition to the initial purchase price, you’ll need to budget for maintenance, service, fuel, insurance and toll costs. Alternatively, San Diego is cycle-friendly, and this offers an affordable and healthy way to get around.

Public Transport in San Diego

Cost of groceries in San Diego

San Diego is home to many wonderful farmers’ markets where residents can buy fresh local produce, although prices tend to run higher than at traditional grocery shops. The cost of pantry staples will largely depend on where you choose to shop. Buying imported products at upmarket supermarkets such as Whole Foods and Barons Market costs more than at shops like Food4Less.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in San Diego

One of the best things about life in San Diego is the diversity of entertainment options on offer at different price points. If you love nature and prefer being outside, you’ll have plenty of opportunities in San Diego, with activities such as swimming, hiking and surfing on offer at little to no cost. Events and theatre can be pricey, though.

Eating out in San Diego offers good value, with many restaurants offering fantastic food at reasonable prices. Thanks to the city’s many international influences, there are plenty of cuisines on offer. If you’re willing to shell out, you won’t be disappointed either, with several Michelin-starred restaurants in the city and surrounding area.

Lifestyle in San Diego

Cost of healthcare in San Diego

San Diego boasts excellent healthcare and qualified medical practitioners, but the cost of accessing this care without health insurance is high. Most people moving to the city for work are fortunate enough to have this cost included in their employment package. If you don’t have this benefit, purchasing comprehensive health insurance is essential to ensure your healthcare needs are catered for.

The cost of health insurance is determined individually but is typically calculated based on age, health status and lifestyle habits. Generally, though, health insurance can be pricey.

Healthcare in San Diego

Cost of education in San Diego

Public schools in San Diego are free for all to attend, and the standard of education in the city varies considerably by district. Some school districts perform better than others, so if you’re looking to send your children to the best public schools, you’ll need to prioritise finding a home in their catchment areas.

Most foreign parents are happy sending their children to local schools in San Diego. If you’re in the city for a short assignment, though, you may consider private or international schools that offer a curriculum aligned with that of your home country. This will cost a pretty penny, as these schools charge steep fees. Most parents find that the standard of teaching, the school facilities and the variety of extracurricular activities more than make up for the high cost.

Education and Schools in San Diego