Cost of Living in El centro, CA
El centro cost of living index: 130.7 (above the US average). Median home price: $480,000.
Updated 2026 • Based on 1 local zip code
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
30% above the national average
Housing
Data from 1 zip code
Housing costs in El centro, CA based on real market data from 1 local zip code.
Considering a move to El centro, CA? The area's median home price is currently set at 480000.0, indicating a solid entry point for homeownership. With a housing index of 121.8, there may be factors impacting market dynamics. Despite the absence of average rent data for 2-bedroom apartments and houses, these variables typically reflect local demand and cost of living trends. It's essential to weigh the evident price point for home buying against potential rental costs in your overall decision-making process when considering a new location.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in El centro, CA could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $32.99, while natural gas is priced at $16.99 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $258.0 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in El centro, CA
How far does your money go in El centro? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in El centro
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a El centro, CA household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For El centro, that's $54,922 ÷ 130.7 × 100 = $42,021. This means a household earning the median income in El centro has the equivalent buying power of $42,021 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
With a cost of living index of 130.7, El centro is significantly more expensive than the national average. Despite a median income of $54,922, the high cost of housing, groceries, and everyday expenses reduces real purchasing power to $42,021. If you're planning to move to El centro, budgeting carefully for rent and housing costs is essential. Households relocating from lower-cost areas should expect to spend more on basic necessities.
With a median home price of $480,000, housing affordability in El centro is a significant factor. Prospective homebuyers should consider that mortgage payments, property taxes, and insurance in El centro, CA will consume a larger share of household income compared to cities with a lower cost of living index.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in El centro
Pros
- • Friendly community vibe
- • Growing job opportunities
- • Cultural diversity present
- • Accessible public transport
- • Local festivals and events
- • Outdoor activities nearby
- • Affordable cost of living
- • Family-friendly activities
- • Good schools in the area
- • Mild climate year-round
Cons
- • High crime rates reported
- • Limited dining choices
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Some areas face poverty
- • Lower average wages
- • Environmental pollution issues
- • Job market is competitive
- • Public services may lack
- • Few kids' activities available
- • Political divide evident
💡City Insights
El centro scores 3/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an average overall profile. However, affordability is a weaker area that prospective residents should consider carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in El centro, CA? ▼
The cost of living in El centro, CA is 31% higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 131 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in El centro, CA? ▼
In El centro, CA, The median home price is $480,000. requiring approximately $145,714 annual income to afford. Average rent is $1,750/month (requiring ~$70,000/year income). The local median household income is $54,922, making homeownership challenging for typical residents. Explore El centro real estate data →
Is El centro, CA a safe place to live? ▼
El centro, CA is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed El centro crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in El centro, CA? ▼
To live comfortably in El centro, CA and afford a median-priced home of $480,000, you would typically need a household income of $120,000 to $150,000 per year. The local median household income is $54,922. Renting requires approximately $70,000/year (at $1,750/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in El centro, CA? ▼
The best neighborhoods in El centro, CA depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods farther from the city center tend to offer more affordable options.
How are the taxes in El centro, CA? ▼
Tax rates in El centro, CA include state and local components. The cost of living index of 131 indicates a higher cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed El centro tax information →
How does El centro, CA compare to nearby cities? ▼
El centro, CA offers comparable costs to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 131, median home prices of $480,000, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in El centro, CA? ▼
Weather in El centro, CA varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed El centro climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in El centro, CA? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in El centro, CA include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 1 zip code in El centro, CA.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 92243 | $480,000 | $1,587/mo | $1,750/mo | 121 | 23 |
Explore More About El centro, CA
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin