Understanding the cost of living in Chula Vista, CA, can help potential residents evaluate their current financial situation and see if this aligns with the expenses they will encounter in their new location.
The overall Chula Vista CA cost of living is 54.9% higher than the national average. Housing is the most expensive, at an index of 238.1, while Healthcare is the most affordable, at 89.
If you are planning a move to Chula Vista, CA, and wondering if it is an expensive place to live in, this article breaks down the cost of basic expenses in this city.
Introduction to Chula Vista's Living Costs
As mentioned previously, the cost of living in Chula Vista is significantly higher than the national average. In fact, it is among the most expensive cities in the United States.
The total monthly expenditure you can expect to incur in Chula Vista depends on the cost of housing, food, utilities, transportation, healthcare, other miscellaneous goods, and services.
Overview of Chula Vista Cost of Living
The table below shows the overall cost of living in Chula Vista in comparison to California and the United States.
| Cost of Living | Chula Vista | California | United States |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | 154.9 | 149.9 | 100 |
| Grocery | 108 | 105.1 | 100 |
| Health | 89.0 | 98.3 | 100 |
| Housing | 238.1 | 234.8 | 100 |
| Utilities | 102.8 | 102.4 | 100 |
| Transportation | 127.9 | 133.1 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 153.6 | 118.7 | 100 |
Credit: Image by Andrea Joshua Sibabalo Qoqonga | Unsplash
The Housing Market in Chula Vista
The Chula Vista housing market is very competitive, with homes receiving three offers on average and selling in around 27 days.
Overview of Housing Costs
Housing costs are a major factor to consider if you’re moving to Chula Vista, as this is the highest basic expense, 138.1% higher than the national average. The median sale price of a home in Chula Vista, CA, is $849,000. The median sale price per square foot is $489.
The average rent in Chula Vista for a 2-bed apartment is $3,099. This is 110% higher than the average rent across the country.
Credit: Image by Franki Chamaki | Unsplash
Daily Life Expenses
Next to housing, daily life expenses in Chula Vista are also higher than the national average. The cost-of-living index for Transportation is 127.9; for Groceries, 108; and for Utilities, 102.8.
Groceries and Eating Out
Chula Vista is well-served by several grocery stores and retail options that meet the daily needs of its residents. Some of the popular grocery chains in the area include Vons, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Walmart Supercenter.
| Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 liter) | $1.23 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | $4.02 |
| Eggs (regular, 12) | $4.25 |
| Rice (white, 1kg) | $5.63 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | $13.17 |
| Beef Round Back Leg Red Meat (1kg) | $17.90 |
| Apples (1kg) | $4.92 |
| Banana (1kg) | $1.90 |
| Oranges (1kg) | $3.35 |
| Tomato (1kg) | $4.49 |
| Potato (1kg) | $3.17 |
| Onion (1kg) | $2.20 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | $1.99 |
| Water (1.5-liter bottle) | $2.33 |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | $15.00 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5-liter bottle) | $2.17 |
| Imported Beer (0.33-liter bottle) | $3.33 |
| Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant | $22.00 |
| Three-Course Meal for 2 People at a Mid-Range Restaurant | $95.00 |
| Combo Meal at a Fast-Food Restaurant | $12.00 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5-liter draught) | $8.00 |
| Imported Beer (0.33-liter bottle) | $9.00 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | $5.60 |
| Coke/Pepsi (0.33-liter bottle) | $2.66 |
| Water (0.33-liter bottle) | $2.00 |
Utilities and Internet Service
Like the prices of any goods or services, utility expenses in Chula Vista can fluctuate depending on variables such as climate, available energy sources, geographical location, and state regulations.
| Utilities in Chula Vista, CA | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85 sqm Apartment | $310.00 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | $69.72 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | $75.64 |
Credit: Image by Corey Agopian | Unsplash
Transportation Costs
There are numerous public transportation options for residents –a trolley system, an extensive roadway system, trails and pathways, and freeway connections. Cycling is encouraged in Chula Vista, and there are many choices for biking in and around the city.
Monthly expenses for Chula Vista transportation also include fuel, insurance, and routine maintenance for those who own vehicles.
| Transportation in Chula Vista, CA | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Local Transport Ticket – One-Way | $2.50 |
| Monthly Pass - Local Transport | $72.00 |
| Taxi Ride (1 km) | $1.68 |
| Gas / Petroleum (1 liter / 0.26 gallon) | $1.37 |
Healthcare and Education Costs
Healthcare in Chula Vista, CA, is very affordable, at an index of 89. The cost of private education is included under Miscellaneous, which has a cost-of-living index of 153.6.
Healthcare Services and Insurance
The health of residents in Chula Vista, CA, is a top priority, and the city provides access to a variety of local hospitals and medical facilities, ensuring quality healthcare options are available to them.
Medical facilities in Chula Vista include Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center, Bonita Valley Medical Center, Palomar Health Downtown Campus, and Scripps Mercy Hospital.
In addition, the city offers several programs and services that promote good health for its population, including preventative care clinics, mental health resources, community education on nutrition, senior care centers, and exercise classes.
| Visit to a Medical Professional | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| General Practitioner | $130.41 |
| Dentist | $112.51 |
| Optometrist | $122.84 |
| Prescription Drug | $480.48 |
| Veterinarian | $65.72 |
Credit: Image by Alexis Brown | Unsplash
Education: Public vs. Private Schooling
Chula Vista residents have access to a variety of public, private, and charter schools that provide high-quality education and prepare students for success in their academic and personal endeavors.
The primary education needs of students in the area are served by Chula Vista Elementary School District. Some of the notable elementary schools in the district include Hedenkamp Elementary School, Veterans Elementary School, and Wolf Canyon Elementary School.
For middle school and high school education, the Chula Vista community is served by Sweetwater Union High School District, with notable schools including Eastlake Middle School, Olympian High School, and Hilltop High School.
Credit: Image by Myke Simon | Unsplash
Lifestyle and Recreation in Chula Vista
Chula Vista residents enjoy an abundance of amenities and facilities that contribute to their high quality of life. Well-maintained parks, recreational facilities, and green spaces offer opportunities for outdoor activities and promote an active and healthy lifestyle.
Entertainment and Leisure Activities
| Entertainment and Leisure in Chula Vista | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Cinema Ticket | $16.89 |
| Bowling | $24.67 |
| Beauty Salon | $65.77 |
| Haircut | $26.92 |
Sports and Fitness Options
| Sports and Fitness in Chula Vista | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | $17.00 |
Budgeting and Saving Tips for Chula Vista Residents
Despite the high cost of living in Chula Vista, the economic opportunities in the area provide residents with a median after-tax salary of $5,046, which is enough to cover living expenses for 1.7 months, given the average cost of living of $2,969.
To live comfortably in Chula Vista, the recommended minimum annual income for a family is $145,440 and $86,000 for a single person.
Conclusion
With its diverse community, an abundance of amenities, and an attractive quality of life, Chula Vista offers an appealing lifestyle that justifies its high cost of living.
If you’d like to explore your home options in the area, please give me a call today at 619-393-6246 or send me an email at edward@teamrivera.com to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of renting an apartment in Chula Vista?
The average rent in Chula Vista for a 2-bed apartment is $3,099.
Are there any affordable housing options available in Chula Vista?
Yes, there are. Give me a call today at 619-393-6246 or send me an email at edward@teamrivera.com so I can provide you with more information.
Is Chula Vista a good place to raise a family?
Definitely! The city is served by reputable school districts, there are plenty of amenities for enjoying the outdoors, the healthcare system is exemplary, and the community offers a safe environment for its residents.
