Cost of Living in San Buenaventura (Ventura), CA

With a cost of living index of 167, San Buenaventura (Ventura), CA is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. Living here is 67% more expensive than the national average and 24% above the California state average of 144. As a major city with a population of 109,900, San Buenaventura (Ventura) offers a wide range of housing options, employment opportunities, and urban amenities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in San Buenaventura (Ventura)'s cost of living. The median monthly rent is $2,101 (59% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $778,700 (155% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 7.8x the median household income — a challenging ratio that puts homeownership out of reach for many residents.

The median household income in San Buenaventura (Ventura) is $100,407, which is 34% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 25% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. While incomes are above average, they do not fully offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to San Buenaventura (Ventura). The area sees an average annual temperature of 61.2°F, with summers averaging 66°F and winters around 56°F. Annual rainfall totals 12.9 inches spread over roughly 44 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.