Cost of living in California
California, MD, offers a unique blend of suburban charm and proximity to major urban centers. Understanding the cost of living here is crucial for anyone considering a move or planning their budget.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses, 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 $8 on average, with a range between $6.31 and $60.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $120, with prices ranging from $75 to $200.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $7.21, with a range between $4.42 and $10.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $2.21 to $7, imported beer $3.78 to $9, cappuccino $4 to $10, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $5.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.53 and $2 per liter, averaging $1.06.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $2.2 and $5, with an average price of $3.71.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2 to $5.59, averaging $3.15.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.2 to $6.61 per kg, while oranges range from $4.39 to $11.02 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $2.18 and $4.41 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.99 to $3 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs $2, with a monthly pass priced at $100.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.78 and $1.13 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares are not specified, but typically start at a base rate with additional costs per kilometer.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $426 to $3200, averaging $1813.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $850 to $2200, averaging $1525.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1300 to $3000, averaging $2150.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1650 to $2500, averaging $2075.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $103.53 and $400, averaging $209.51.
- Internet - Internet services range from $40 to $100, with an average cost of $72.5.
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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Transportation
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Rent Per Month
Rent Per Month
Utilities (Monthly)
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Sports And Leisure
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Clothing And Shoes
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Salaries And Financing
Salaries And Financing
Childcare
Childcare
"Key Takeaways"
California, MD, presents a varied cost of living landscape, with affordable dining options but potentially high housing costs, especially in the city centre.
Transportation is relatively economical, with reasonable public transport and fuel prices.
Grocery prices are moderate, but careful budgeting is advised for housing and utilities to manage overall expenses effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, California, MD, offers a diverse cost of living experience, balancing affordable dining and transportation with higher housing costs.
Prospective residents should consider their priorities and budget accordingly, particularly in terms of housing and utilities, to ensure a comfortable lifestyle.