Last updated 2026-06-15 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
Above the national average, a cheaper inland alternative to coastal Southern California.
Cost of living index (US avg = 100): 116
Median 2BR rent: $2,100/mo
Housing: 124 vs 100
Groceries: 106 vs 100
Utilities: 108 vs 100
Transportation: 115 vs 100
Healthcare: 100 vs 100
Riverside anchors the Inland Empire, offering more space and lower rent than coastal Southern California within commuting reach of it. Costs sit above the national average but below LA or Orange County.