Cost of Living in San Bernardino, CA
Population 221,774 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Most of San Bernardino's cost indicators track within a reasonable band of national figures, with median household incomes near $63,988 — a more representative starting point for relocation math than the headline-expensive or headline-cheap cities on either tail. Unemployment has stayed elevated relative to the national figure — 6.5% as of the most recent ACS release — which shows up in household-income and poverty figures as well.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in San Bernardino
The median home value in San Bernardino is $384,900 — 26% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,433/month, 9% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $63,988/year is 14% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 6.5%, 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, San Bernardino has a cost of living index of 119 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 19% 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 San Bernardino, CA?
San Bernardino has a cost index of 119 (100 = national average). It is 19% above the national average.
What is average rent in San Bernardino, CA?
The median gross rent in San Bernardino is $1,433 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in San Bernardino?
The median home value in San Bernardino is $384,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in San Bernardino?
The median household income in San Bernardino is $63,988 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in San Bernardino, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in San Bernardino is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is San Bernardino, CA affordable?
San Bernardino is above average in cost of living, with an index of 119 — about 19% higher than the national average.
San Bernardino at a Glance
- Population
- 221,774
- Median Income
- $63,988
- Home Value
- $384,900
- Median Rent
- $1,433/mo
- Unemployment
- 6.5%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Compare San Bernardino
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