Cost of Living in San Clemente, CA
Population 63,510 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
San Clemente's housing market is in a category of its own — median home values around $1.2 million sit roughly 4 times the US figure, reflecting a market driven as much by second-home and resort buyers as by year-round residents.
San Clemente sits roughly 20 miles southeast of Irvine — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 9% higher than Irvine's $1.1 million.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in San Clemente
The median home value in San Clemente is $1,220,500 — 300% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,398/month, 82% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $134,735/year is 81% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.1%, 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 Clemente has a cost of living index of 313 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 213% 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 Clemente, CA?
San Clemente has a cost index of 313 (100 = national average). It is 213% above the national average.
What is average rent in San Clemente, CA?
The median gross rent in San Clemente is $2,398 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in San Clemente?
The median home value in San Clemente is $1,220,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in San Clemente?
The median household income in San Clemente is $134,735 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in San Clemente, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in San Clemente is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is San Clemente, CA affordable?
San Clemente is above average in cost of living, with an index of 313 — about 213% higher than the national average.
San Clemente at a Glance
- Population
- 63,510
- Median Income
- $134,735
- Home Value
- $1,220,500
- Median Rent
- $2,398/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.1%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
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California Rankings
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