Cost of Living in Ventura, CA is
34.8% Higher
than the National Average

Did the Cost of Living in Ventura, CA increase in 2024? Ventura, CA area prices were up 2.5% from a year ago. The largest increases were found in Transportation, Food, and Housing.
By using Salary.com's Cost of Living Calculator, you can make a cost of living comparison of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and salary differentials of over 300+ US cities. Let us help you make an informed decision about what it will cost to live and work in the city of your dreams!
About Ventura, California    Ventura is located northwest of Los Angeles on the California coast. The western portion of the city stretches north along the Ventura River and is ch....More
The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour while California's state law sets the minimum wage rate at $16 per hour in 2024. Demands for a living wage that is fair to workers have resulted in numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels. View future changes in the minimum wage in your location by visiting Minimum Wage Values in Ventura, CA

Cost of Living Calculator



Cost of Living in other Major Cities

City, State Compared to national average
City, State San Francisco, CA Compared to national average
+ 86.5%
City, State Washington, DC Compared to national average
+ 45.2%
City, State Miami, FL Compared to national average
+ 15.4%
City, State Chicago, IL Compared to national average
+ 12.4%
City, State Boston, MA Compared to national average
+ 53.1%
City, State New York, NY Compared to national average
+ 77.0%
City, State Dallas, TX Compared to national average
+ 7.0%

Cost of Living Ventura, CA by Expense Category

Category Compared to national average
CategoryEnergy Compared to national average
+ 33.6%
CategoryFood Compared to national average
+ 7.6%
CategoryHealthcare Compared to national average
-5.0%
CategoryHousing Compared to national average
+ 26.3%
CategoryTransportation Compared to national average
+ 7.1%

Cost of Living Comparison with Ventura, CA

If you move to Ventura from one of these cities, you would have these the changes of your cost of living.


Move From Move To Cost Of Living Comparison
Move FromSan Francisco, CA Move ToVentura, CA Cost Of Living Comparision
-51.7%
Move FromWashington, DC Move ToVentura, CA Cost Of Living Comparision
-10.4%
Move FromMiami, FL Move ToVentura, CA Cost Of Living Comparision
+ 19.4%
Move FromChicago, IL Move ToVentura, CA Cost Of Living Comparision
+ 22.4%
Move FromBoston, MA Move ToVentura, CA Cost Of Living Comparision
-18.3%
Move FromNew York, NY Move ToVentura, CA Cost Of Living Comparision
-42.2%
Move FromDallas, TX Move ToVentura, CA Cost Of Living Comparision
+ 27.8%

Based on this cost of living comparison, you can see:
If you move from Chicago IL, Dallas, TX, or Miami, FL, the percent increase of your cost of living could be 22.8%, 37.8%, and 24.8%. Looks like this move could have a negative net change in disposable income, so please think carefully!
If you move from New York, NY, San Francisco, CA, or Washington, DC, the percent reduction of your cost of living could be -43.50%, -23%, and -20.10%, that's good news to you that you could be looking at a positive net change in disposable income.


About Ventura, CA

Ventura is located northwest of Los Angeles on the California coast. The western portion of the city stretches north along the Ventura River and is characterized by a narrow valley with steeply sloped areas along both sides. The steep slopes of the Ventura foothills abut the northern portion of the community. Much of the eastern portion is on a relatively flat alluvial coastal plain lying along the western edge of the Oxnard Plain. The Santa Clara River forms the city's southerly boundary with the city limits reaching up to the beginning of the Santa Clara River Valley at the historic communit...
Source: Wikipedia (as of 04/11/2019). Read more from Wikipedia


Comments about the Cost of Living in Ventura, CA

Will the cost of food in Ventura, California impact the overall cost of living there?

Yes, cost of food is important as we all have to eat! There are ways to save money on your food expenses if you plan carefully. Check out stores like Alberrsons or Carrefour to buy items in bulk at a considerable savings. At different times of the year you can get local produce for low prices at roadside stands or farmer’s markets. There are lots of ways to reduce food expenses and lower your overall cost of living in Ventura, CA. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

I love to go to sports events, what does Ventura, California have to offer?

Ventura, CA does not have a major sports team, but don’t worry, check out local colleges and high school sports schedules. These games usually have very cheap tickets and the spirit and enthusiasm of the crowd often makes up for the level of skill. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

I am nervous about moving, what is the typical cost of moving to another city and what should I have to think about?

The average cost of moving to another state is around $5,600 for a distance of 1,200 miles. This price can vary a lot if the distance is greater and depending on how much is being moved. Even if your employer is covering the cost of a move, there will still be costs that are not covered. A cost that typically occurs is that your existing furniture and accessories are either too large, too small, or not appropriate for your new home. You may find that after you move, you will need to purchase many new items for the new location, for example, window coverings, rugs, lighting, and outdoor gear. Make sure you budget for these types of expenses and include them in the first year’s cost of living at your new location. Finally, although there is no dollar cost, is the stress of moving, which will increase if you have children or pets. Make sure you prepare in advance for what additional TLC those kids and pets will need to have a good move. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

I am moving with children, what should I do to make the move less stressful for them and myself?

Adults find that moving can sometimes be an emotional and stressful experience. Children, who don’t have the maturity, independence, and understanding of a parent may be even more sensitive to a move. If they are old enough to understand, include the children in making plans for the move. When moving to a distant place, help your children learn about the new area. Check out the website for Ventura, California to find opportunities and activities in the new location like parks, beaches, museums, or playgrounds that kids will enjoy and look forward to visiting. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

How much are average utility costs in Ventura, California compared to the rest of U.S.?

Electric costs in Ventura,CA are currently the fifth highest when compared to other states. Since a year ago the price of electricity in California has gone up about 2.63%. Electric costs will contribute to the energy component of your overall cost of living. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

What kind of child care is available in Ventura, California and what is the cost?

The estimated average annual cost for child care in Ventura, California (based on state average), is $11817. This cost is ranked NO. 11 nationally. Some employers have company provided day care centers that let you bring your child to work with you and receive care on site. Some colleges and universities with Childhood Education programs also may have day care centers available at reduced costs, so you should explore those possibilities to see if you can reduce your child care expense. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

What are rents like in Ventura,CA?

In Ventura,CA, my friend pays $2190 for a large 2 bedroom apartment. Since he has 2 children, he needs to have a large apartment. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

I need to keep my cost of living under control, is there a lot to do in Ventura, California that is not very expensive?

Looks for areas of Ventura, California where there is a large student population. In those areas you will be sure to find lots of free or cheap events to go to and plenty of cheap places to eat. Familiarize yourself with the places where students hang out, and take advantage of discounted or bargain prices, you are sure to be able to keep your cost of living reasonable. Look at the website for Ventura, CA to find recommendations for activities that are available and unique to the area. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

How does Ventura, California compare to the rest of U.S. as far as all the taxes that will affect my cost of living?

The overall tax ranking for Ventura, California, which is based on a composite of state wide taxes including income taxes, sales taxes, property taxes, insurance taxes, and business taxes is the second highest compared to the rest of the United States. This overall tax profile can definitely impact your cost of living in Ventura, CA. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

Does Ventura, California have a good climate?

The weather in Ventura is ideal. Based on data collected by NOAA National Climatic Data Center, Ventura is considered to have one of the most favorable climates in the country based on comfort and number of days with clear skies. You will enjoy living in Ventura, California. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

What is the cost of public transit in Ventura, California?

Public transit in Ventura, CA will cost you around $52.00 per month. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

Can you save money using public transport?

You could save up to $1,000 per year, depending on your location, by using public transport instead of driving. Not only will you reduce the stress of driving and finding a place to park once you reach your destination, your car and tires will last longer, and you will spend less on gas. A side benefit is that you may be able to relax, work, or read on the way to work, or get to know and chat with other commuters. Some employers offer employees reduced fee bus or transit passes, so check that out with your employer. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )



Cost of Living Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Cost of Living index and how is it used?

In the simplest terms, a Cost of Living index is the estimated amount that represents the cost of the basic necessities required for an individual to live. A cost of living or COL estimate may typically include estimates for housing, food, energy, medical care, transportation, taxes, and other necessities. A COL index may be used to measure what the cost difference would be for a person living in a certain location compared to another location. This cost of living comparison helps individuals make decisions about where they would like to live and what they can afford based on the costs in that location. A cost of living comparison can provide guidance about how an increase or decrease in these basic living expenses impacts necessary spending for an individual or a family. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

What factors are included in estimating your cost of living?

The Salary.com cost of living calculator estimate is based on data related to five general categories: housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and energy. These are the universally recognized core components of any cost of living estimate and represent those expenses that apply to everyone. Obviously, there may be other factors that could contribute to your particular cost of living situation and not everyone has the same spending habits. For example, education and/or childcare costs might not apply to everyone, but for those who have those expenses, they could be significant and should be considered when you evaluate your cost of living comparison. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )

The Salary.com cost of living calculator is unique in that it also incorporates current salary data for thousands of jobs specific to a chosen home or work location to provide a more refined estimate of the cost of living variations. You can see how your job and your salary will be impacted by a change of location. If you live in one location but work in another, the cost of living calculator will make those adjustments to provide an accurate estimate of the change in COL. The Salary.com cost of living calculator helps you to make cost of living comparisons cost comparisons easily and quickly. ( 2024-03-27 salary.com )


Last Update: 2024-03-27