Cost of Living in Dana Point, CA
Population 32,883 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Housing in Dana Point sits 294% above the national median — $1.2 million for the typical home — but median household incomes near $127,246 (71% above the US figure) soften the blow that similar pricing creates in lower-wage metros.
Dana Point sits roughly 15 miles south of Irvine — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 8% higher than Irvine's $1.1 million.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Dana Point
The median home value in Dana Point is $1,200,900 — 294% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,883/month, 119% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $127,246/year is 71% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.9%, below the national average of 4.8%. California's top state income tax rate is 13.3% and the combined sales tax is 8.7%. Overall, Dana Point has a cost of living index of 324 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 224% more expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Dana Point, CA?
Dana Point has a cost index of 324 (100 = national average). It is 224% above the national average.
What is average rent in Dana Point, CA?
The median gross rent in Dana Point is $2,883 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Dana Point?
The median home value in Dana Point is $1,200,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Dana Point?
The median household income in Dana Point is $127,246 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Dana Point, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Dana Point is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is Dana Point, CA affordable?
Dana Point is above average in cost of living, with an index of 324 — about 224% higher than the national average.
Dana Point at a Glance
- Population
- 32,883
- Median Income
- $127,246
- Home Value
- $1,200,900
- Median Rent
- $2,883/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.9%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
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California Rankings
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