Cost of living in Downey
Downey, located in California, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural diversity. Understanding the cost of living in Downey is crucial for both current residents and those considering a move to the area.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the expenses you can expect, from dining and groceries to housing and transportation, helping you make informed financial decisions.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $19 on average, with a range between $12 and $30.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $70, with prices ranging from $50 to $90.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $12, with a range between $12 and $16.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $5 to $20, imported beer $5 to $10, cappuccino $3.25 to $10, and Coke/Pepsi $2.25 to $4.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.92 and $1.15 per liter, averaging $1.09.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.42 and $4.41, with an average price of $3.89.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.99 to $3.75, averaging $3.46.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.76 to $6.59 per kg, while oranges range from $1.76 to $7.72 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.1 and $6.61 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.99 to $1.99 per head.
Transportation
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.19 and $1.34 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $6.25, with a cost of $0 per km and $0 per hour of waiting.
- Car Purchase - A new Volkswagen Golf costs between $23,200 and $36,753.89, while a Toyota Corolla ranges from $21,500 to $35,000.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1500 to $1750, averaging $1625.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $1500.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $3000 to $3500, averaging $3250.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $100 and $500, averaging $130.53.
- Internet - Internet services range from $50 to $85, with an average cost of $62.33.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Downey offers a moderate cost of living with reasonable prices in dining and groceries, though housing can be on the higher side, especially in the city centre.
Transportation costs are manageable, with gasoline prices being relatively stable. However, car ownership might be a significant expense.
Utilities and internet services are competitively priced, making them affordable for most residents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Downey, CA, presents a balanced cost of living with affordable dining and grocery options, though housing costs may require careful budgeting.
Prospective residents should consider transportation and utility expenses when planning their move. Overall, Downey offers a comfortable lifestyle with access to essential amenities.