Cost of living in Sunnyvale
Sunnyvale, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, is known for its tech-driven economy and vibrant community. Understanding the cost of living in Sunnyvale is crucial for anyone considering moving to or working in this dynamic city.
With its proximity to major tech companies and a high standard of living, Sunnyvale offers a unique blend of opportunities and challenges when it comes to managing expenses.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $20 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 $10, with a range between $10 and $15.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3 to $8, imported beer $7 to $12, cappuccino $3.5 to $6, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $4.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.92 and $1.59 per liter, averaging $1.43.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.1 and $6.06, with an average price of $4.82.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $3.99 to $8, averaging $5.52.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.2 to $11.02 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 to $2.69 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs $3, with a monthly pass priced at $30.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.06 and $1.32 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $4, with a cost of $2.02 to $2.17 per km and $39 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $2800 to $3500, averaging $3037.5.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1900 to $3000, averaging $2500.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $4500 to $5000, averaging $4750.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $4000.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre averages $8751.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter also averages $8751.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $80 and $425, averaging $161.37.
- Internet - Internet services range from $45 to $100, with an average cost of $54.
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
Restaurants
Restaurants
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Transportation
Transportation
Rent Per Month
Rent Per Month
Utilities (Monthly)
Utilities (Monthly)
Sports And Leisure
Sports And Leisure
Clothing And Shoes
Clothing And Shoes
Buy Apartment Price
Buy Apartment Price
Salaries And Financing
Salaries And Financing
Childcare
Childcare
"Key Takeaways"
Sunnyvale's cost of living is notably high, driven by expensive housing and dining costs. However, transportation and utilities are relatively moderate.
For those looking to save, consider living outside the city centre where rent is more affordable, and explore local markets for grocery shopping.
Conclusion
Sunnyvale offers a high standard of living with its proximity to tech hubs and vibrant community life. However, this comes with a high cost of living, particularly in housing and dining.
Prospective residents should carefully consider their budget and explore cost-saving measures, such as choosing accommodation outside the city centre and utilizing public transportation.