Cost of living in Monterey
Monterey, located on California's rugged central coast, is known for its stunning coastal views and rich history. Understanding the cost of living in this picturesque city is crucial for anyone considering a move or planning a visit.
The cost of living in Monterey encompasses various aspects such as housing, dining, transportation, and more. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of these expenses to help you make informed decisions.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $16.46 on average, with a range between $9.78 and $35.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $60, with prices ranging from $50 to $130.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $8.26, with a range between $8.26 and $9.22.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3 to $10.24, imported beer $3.42 to $12, cappuccino $2.2 to $7, and Coke/Pepsi $1.96 to $5.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.92 and $1.75 per liter, averaging $1.43.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.79 and $6.06, with an average price of $3.45.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.05 to $5.69, averaging $3.91.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.73 to $5.93 per kg, while oranges range from $1 to $4.41 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $0.88 and $3 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.54 to $2 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs $2.
- Monthly Pass - A monthly pass for public transport is priced at $37.6.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.06 and $1.42 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $1.54, with a cost of $0.91 per km and $10.6 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $2000 to $2500, averaging $2300.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1900 to $2100, averaging $2000.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $3100 to $4000, averaging $3650.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $3300 to $4000, averaging $3700.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre ranges from $3285.97 to $9439.95, averaging $6297.88.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $1709.64 to $9439.95, averaging $5574.79.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $180 and $500, averaging $207.85.
- Internet - Internet services range from $50 to $130, with an average cost of $62.
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"
Monterey offers a diverse range of dining options, with prices varying significantly based on the type of restaurant.
Grocery prices in Monterey are relatively moderate, with some items like bread and eggs showing a wide price range.
Transportation costs are manageable, with affordable public transport options and competitive fuel prices.
Housing in Monterey can be expensive, particularly in the city centre, but there are more affordable options outside the centre.
Utilities and internet costs are in line with national averages, though prices can vary.
Conclusion
Monterey, CA, presents a unique blend of coastal beauty and urban living, with a cost of living that reflects its desirable location.
While housing costs can be high, especially in the city centre, there are opportunities to find more affordable living arrangements outside the central area.
Overall, Monterey offers a balanced lifestyle with reasonable costs in dining, transportation, and utilities, making it an attractive option for both residents and visitors.