Cost of Living in Highland, CA
Population 56,690 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The Highland cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $455,000, rents near $1,539 a month.
Located 8 miles east of San Bernardino, Highland falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 18% higher than San Bernardino's $385,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Highland
The median home value in Highland is $455,200 — 49% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,539/month, 17% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $77,979/year is 5% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.6%, above 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, Highland has a cost of living index of 136 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 36% 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 Highland, CA?
Highland has a cost index of 136 (100 = national average). It is 36% above the national average.
What is average rent in Highland, CA?
The median gross rent in Highland is $1,539 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Highland?
The median home value in Highland is $455,200 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Highland?
The median household income in Highland is $77,979 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Highland, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Highland is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is Highland, CA affordable?
Highland is above average in cost of living, with an index of 136 — about 36% higher than the national average.
Highland at a Glance
- Population
- 56,690
- Median Income
- $77,979
- Home Value
- $455,200
- Median Rent
- $1,539/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.6%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
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California Rankings
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