Cost of Living in Sacramento, CA [2025]

Sacramento continues to draw new residents in 2025 thanks to its role as California’s capital, its strong and growing job market, and its more affordable lifestyle compared to coastal cities.

Sacramento blends government, healthcare, tech, and education industries with a vibrant local culture and access to nature. Residents enjoy tree-lined streets, a robust local food scene, access to the American and Sacramento Rivers, and more than 200 parks and green spaces.

Unlike higher-cost metros such as San Francisco or San Jose, Sacramento offers relatively more affordable housing and a lower cost of living, while still providing many urban conveniences. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Sacramento is $2,506 in 2025, compared to $5,135 in San Francisco.

In the sections below, we’ll take a closer look at the true cost of living in Sacramento to help you decide whether it’s the right fit for your lifestyle and budget in 2025.

Note: We used internal Apartment List data and cross-referenced with additional neighborhood data from Apartments.com to give you the most accurate snapshot of rents in Sacramento as of October 2025. Other sources include Sperling’s BestPlaces, Numbeo, and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.

Cost of Living in Sacramento

What Is the Cost of Living in Sacramento?

Sacramento is slightly pricier than other similar U.S. cities. On average, it’s about 27.2% higher than the US average. However, it’s about 15% lower than the average for California.

According to our latest data, areas like Midtown have higher rents, around $3,183 for a two-bedroom apartment. On the other hand, neighborhoods like Greenhaven and Upper Land Park offer lower rents, averaging $2,121 and $2,249 for a two-bedroom.

Where Is the Cost of Living Highest in Sacramento, CA?

Midtown has the highest cost of living in Sacramento, with one-bedrooms averaging $2,429 and two-bedroom rents averaging $3,183 per month, significantly higher than the California average and the national averages of $1,575 (one bedrooms) and $1,828 (two bedrooms).

Where Is the Cost of Living Most Affordable in Sacramento, CA?

Glenwood Meadows is one of the most affordable places to live in Sacramento with one-bedroom rents averaging $1,581 per month and two-bedrooms at $1,895.

What Is the Average Rent in Sacramento, CA?

As of October 2025, the overall median rent in Sacramento is $1,694, based on Apartment List data. The one-bedroom median rent is $1,390, while two-bedroom apartments are $1,756.

For Sacramento:

Other major cities:

How Much Is a One-Bedroom Apartment in Sacramento, CA?

As of October 2025, the average for a one-bedroom apartment in Sacramento is $2,111. Prices differ by neighborhood.

Midtown apartments fall around $2,429, while areas like Glenwood Meadows are much more affordable at around $1,581 per month. Rent can fluctuate depending on area, amenities, and the age of the building.

How Much Is a Two-Bedroom Apartment in Sacramento, CA?

The average for a two-bedroom apartment in Sacramento is $2,506 as of October 2025.

The final cost depends on factors like location, unit size, and amenities.

How Much Is Housing in Sacramento?

The median home sale price in Sacramento is around $470,000. That’s slightly higher than the national median of $439,894.

Thanks to continued development and more moderate home price increases compared to coastal markets, Sacramento remains a viable option for buyers priced out of cities like San Francisco or San Jose.

What Salary Do I Need to Live in Sacramento, CA?

A common rule of thumb for housing affordability is the 30% rule, meaning you should spend no more than 30% of your gross income on rent. Based on the median one-bedroom rent of $1,390 in Sacramento, you’d need to earn at least $55,600 per year, or $4,633 per month, to stay within the 30% income rule. That breaks down to about $26.73 per hour for a full-time worker. If you’re targeting a two-bedroom at the median $1,756, the required income jumps to $70,240 per year.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Sacramento’s median household income is $91,387. That is higher than the national median of $81,604.

Remember that rent is just one part of the overall cost of living. Expenses like utilities, groceries, and transportation can add up quickly. To get a clearer sense of what you can realistically afford, tools like the Apartment List Rent Calculator can help match housing options to your income level.

For a deeper look at local living costs, the MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates that a single adult in Sacramento (without children) needs to earn at least $26.76 per hour to meet basic living expenses such as housing, food, and healthcare—just enough to stay above the poverty line. This estimate does not account for savings, travel, or debt payments.

How Much Is Transportation in Sacramento, CA?

The MIT Living Wage Calculator data breaks down typical car-based transportation expenses for different household types in the Sacramento region.

Sacramento is mostly car-dependent for everyday travel. While public transit options are available, coverage and frequency can be inconsistent, especially outside of central areas. Most neighborhoods are spread out, and walkability tends to be limited outside the downtown and Midtown cores. Major roadways like I-5, I-80, and Highway 50 see regular congestion during rush hours, making driving the most common and convenient way for residents to navigate the city and surrounding suburbs.

In terms of walkability, Walk Score data highlights Sacramento neighborhoods where you can go car-free:

• Midtown (walk score 94): Highly walkable with frequent SacRT bus and light rail service and a strong bike infrastructure.
• Downtown Sacramento (walk score 93): Compact layout, robust public transit access via SacRT, and wide sidewalks.

These neighborhoods are the most accessible for residents who rely on public transit or prefer a car-free lifestyle, offering the best connectivity for getting around the city.

How Much Are Groceries in Sacramento?

According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult without children in the Sacramento area spends at least $4,485 per year on food, while a two-adult household with two children averages $13,145 annually. That breaks down to about $373.75 per month for a solo renter and $1,095.42 monthly for a four-person family, covering groceries and basic meals at home.

Dining out in Sacramento can be affordable, depending on where you go. According to Numbeo, an average meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around $20.00, while a three-course dinner for two at a midrange spot averages around $80.00.

Regularly dining out or ordering takeout can significantly increase your monthly food expenses.

How Much Is Child Care in Sacramento, CA?

Child care is a substantial expense for families living in the Sacramento area. According to MIT Living Wage data for Sacramento, child care costs for one child average $10,219 per year. For two children, annual child care costs more than double to around $27,476.

That breaks down to around $851.58 monthly for one child, and $2,290 per month for two. These expenses significantly influence the local living wage for parents and should be factored into any family budget.

Because child care often represents one of the largest household costs, families may explore strategies to help manage the financial burden. Options might include adjusting work schedules to allow for remote or flexible hours, seeking more affordable child care options in different areas, or coordinating shared caregiving with trusted relatives or friends.

How Much Is Healthcare in Sacramento, CA?

Using data from the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult without children typically spends around $3,019 per year on healthcare, including insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs. For a family of two working adults and two children, healthcare expenses rise to approximately $11,680 annually.

How Much Are Utilities in Sacramento, CA?

A 915-square-foot Sacramento apartment has average monthly utility costs (electricity, heating and cooling, water, garbage) of $354.36, which is about 68.7% higher than the national average of $210.04.

On top of that, a mobile phone plan (10 GB plus voice) averages $64.67 per month, while high-speed internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data) runs about $74.65 per month, bringing the overall monthly total to $493.68.

Sacramento experiences hot, dry summers, with average high temperatures often in the 90s and frequently exceeding 100°F during heatwaves. Sacramento doesn't benefit from ocean breezes, so summer heat can be intense and prolonged. It’s smart to plan for higher electricity bills during the summer months, especially for air conditioning use.

Sacramento, CA Fitness and Entertainment

Sacramento offers residents a variety of affordable ways to stay active and enjoy local entertainment—from riverside trails and community parks to local museums, festivals, and sports events.

Outdoor Activities and Local Favorites

Sacramento is filled with public green spaces and outdoor amenities. William Land Park is a local favorite, offering walking paths, picnic areas, a golf course, and the Funderland Amusement Park for families.

For nature lovers, the Effie Yeaw Nature Center in Ancil Hoffman Park is just a short drive from central Sacramento. It provides easy access to wildlife and hiking trails through native oak woodlands.

Gym Memberships and Alternatives

According to Numbeo, the average monthly fitness club fee in Sacramento is about $49.46 per person. This is higher than the national average.

For those looking for more budget-conscious options, the City of Sacramento’s Department of Youth, Parks, & Community Enrichment operates low-cost community centers and recreation programs across the city, including group fitness classes, public pools, and sports leagues.

Entertainment Costs and Budget Options

Sacramento combines historic charm with modern entertainment. While professional sports games and concert venues like Golden 1 Center can come with higher ticket prices, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options.

Residents enjoy free or low-cost activities such as outdoor movie nights, Second Saturday Art Walks in Midtown, seasonal festivals like the Farm-to-Fork Street Festival, and live music at parks and local bars.

Cultural attractions like the Crocker Art Museum and California State Railroad Museum offer discounted admission days and community programming, making them accessible to a wide range of budgets.

How Much Are Taxes in Sacramento, CA?

Sacramento’s combined sales tax rate is 8.75%, which includes the California state sales tax along with local district taxes applied within the city. While Sacramento doesn’t add a separate city-level tax beyond what's already included in the district rates, the overall rate is higher than in many other parts of the state.

California’s state income tax applies to all residents and ranges from 1% to 13.3%, depending on income. For higher earners, this can significantly increase the total tax burden.

When it comes to property taxes, Sacramento County's average effective rate is approximately 0.81%, slightly above the statewide average. While that might seem low compared to national rates, California’s home values tend to be higher, which can make property taxes a significant monthly cost for homeowners. Renters may also feel the effects, as property taxes often influence rental pricing over time.

While California’s tax system can feel heavy, it’s important to look at the full mix of taxes, including sales, property, and local levies, when evaluating the true cost of living in Sacramento.

Sacramento Job Market

Sacramento plays a central role in Northern California’s economy, with steady job growth and a diverse employment base. Key industries include government, healthcare, education, and clean energy.

In July 2025, Sacramento’s unemployment rate was 5.6%, slightly above the California rate (5.5%) and above the national rate (4.3%). The area’s average hourly wage was $36.00, above the state average ($26.47) and national average ($28.16).

Find Your Next Apartment in Sacramento, CA

Sacramento’s central location in Northern California and its growing job market make it an appealing choice for students, families, and professionals. Whether you're looking to be near downtown employers, close to schools, or within biking distance of parks and coffee shops, Sacramento has housing options that suit a variety of lifestyles and budgets.

Thinking of relocating? Get started with the Apartment List quiz. It takes just a few minutes and helps match you with rentals based on your budget, commute, and preferences, saving you time and effort in your search.

FAQs: Cost of Living in Sacramento

How expensive is an apartment in Sacramento?

As of October 2025, the median rent for all apartment sizes in Sacramento is $1,694 per month, with one-bedroom units at a median of $1,390 and two-bedroom units at $1,756.

What is the cheapest rent in Sacramento?

One-bedroom apartments in neighborhoods like Glenwood Meadows are notably more affordable, with one-bedroom rents averaging $1,581 per month and two-bedrooms at $1,895.

How expensive is it to live in Sacramento?

Using the most affordable rent example of $1,581 per month and adding estimated annual costs for food ($4,485), transportation ($10,133), utilities ($493.68), and healthcare ($3,019) for a single adult without children, total annual essential living expenses fall around $19,711.68. This does not account for savings, debt repayment, or discretionary spending.

How far is Sacramento from Los Angeles?

Sacramento is 386 miles away from Los Angeles. It takes 5 hours and 50 minutes to get to Los Angeles from Sacramento by car, 39 hours by bike, and 143 hours by foot.

How far is Sacramento from San Francisco?

Sacramento is 88 miles away from San Francisco. It takes 1 hour and 50 minutes to get to San Francisco from Sacramento by car, 7 hours by bike, and 24 hours by foot.

How far is Chico from Sacramento?

Sacramento is 90 miles away from Chico. It takes 1 hour and 45 minutes to get to Chico from Sacramento by car, 8 hours by bike, and 30 hours by foot.

What is the population of Sacramento?

As of the latest census, Sacramento has a population of approximately 524,943 people, making it one of the largest cities in California.

What is a good salary in Sacramento?

Based on the 30% rent rule, a median one-bedroom rent of $1,390 requires a gross annual income of around $55,600 per year, or $26.73 per hour for full-time work.

The MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates a living wage as a single adult without children at $26.76 per hour to remain above the poverty threshold. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates Sacramento’s median household income at $91,387.