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Cost of Living in Laguna Beach

Is it better to rent or buy in Laguna Beach? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$108,705
$1,855/mo

Median in area: $1,855

$778,518

Median in area: $778,518

$155,704

If you Rent

$2,074 /mo
Base Rent$1,855
Est. Utilities$219
% of Income22.9%
Pre-tax Residual$6,985

If you Buy

$5,025 /mo
P&I (6.923%)$4,111
Taxes & Ins$695
Est. Utilities$219
% of Income55.5%
Pre-tax Residual$4,033

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Laguna Beach?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Laguna Beach. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $2,074, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $5,025 per month (a difference of $2,951).

How much do utilities cost in Laguna Beach?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Laguna Beach is approximately $219. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Laguna Beach?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Laguna Beach without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $82,960 per year.