F
28%
Overall NAT. AVG.
9%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
55%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Mentone California National
Cost of living128141100
Groceries109111100
Health care115116100
Housing155197100
Transportation117118100
Utilities120119100
Lifestyle & Entertainment121120100
Household Items110111100
Education & Childcare127127100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Mentone, CA

Are you thinking about relocating, but curious about the potential cost of living in Mentone? Is it more expensive or more affordable than average? Based on the most recent report, the cost of living in Mentone stands at 128, making it 28% higher than the national average. The cost of living directly affects the affordability of one's desired lifestyle. Knowing the cost of housing, transportation, groceries and other essentials in the new area allows people to gauge whether they can maintain their preferred standard of living.

If you value affordability in your search for a new place to live, Mentone may not be the most suitable option, as it stands out as one of the priciest areas in the entire United States. Only a small fraction of regions have a cost of living that is more than 20% higher than the national average, and regrettably, Mentone falls into this category, which may not align with your desire for an affordable place to call home.

Housing costs are a very significant part of the Mentone cost of living index and generally encompass a large percentage of take-home income. Unfortunately, in this area, the housing costs for both homes and rentals were 55% more than the average city. This includes things like home and rent prices, mortgage rates and insurance.

Is Mentone Affordable?

Is Mentone an affordable place to live? It's a good question and one that you might want to ask when considering any new city, as affordability can play a huge role in the decision making process. The cost of living index (which we covered above), as well as housing costs and income levels play a vital role in determining the affordability of an area. The median home price in Mentone is 72.8% higher than the national average, while the average monthly rent prices are 13.4% higher than average. The affordability of any location can also be influenced by median income levels. Mentone has a median household income of $91,902, which is 13% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Mentone?

Healthcare: Healthcare costs and insurance premiums can fluctuate greatly based on the city or state. Access to healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket expenses for doctor\’s visits, dentist costs, medication costs and specialized care costs can all impact the cost of living. In Mentone, the healthcare costs are 14.6% higher than the national average.

Housing: High demand for housing in desirable locations can drive up property prices and rental rates. This can be a primary contributor to a higher cost of living. While low demand for housing, especially in undesirable locations, can have the reverse effect and drive prices down, resulting in a lower cost of living. The housing index in Mentone, is 55% higher than the national average.

Taxes: Areas with higher taxes, including sales taxes and income taxes, can contribute to a higher cost of living. Paying more tax for everyday household expenses like clothing and food will result in higher costs, as will paying a higher rate of income tax. The general sales tax rate in Mentone starts at 7.25% and the income tax rates start at 1%.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Mentone shown above is based on a U.S. average baseline score of 100, making it easier to compare how far your dollar may go from one city to another. Housing uses U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all remaining values are AI-assisted estimates informed by regional pricing, climate, transportation dynamics, and local economic factors. These scores are best used for directional comparisons between cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Mentone is 9% lower than the California average
  • The cost of living in Mentone is 28% higher than the national average
  • Mentone housing is 55% higher than the national average
  • California general sales tax is 42% higher than the national average
  • California state income tax is 61% lower than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Mentone

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Compare Mentone, CA Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$112,061$9,338$2,615$3,362
      Renters$63,977$5,331$1,493$1,920
      The affordability of the housing market in Mentone, CA as well as the overall cost of living can be predicted by what percent of the monthly income is spent on housing related costs. This is konwn as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). The overall rule of thumb is that no more than 28% of your gross income should be spent on the overall costs related to housing and no more than 36% of gross income on all expenses and debts. Among Mentone homeowners, the median income is $112,061. This indicates that a monthly maximum of $2,615 should be spent by homeowners on all housing related costs. Renters have a median income of $63,977. This indicates that renters would have a maximum of $1,493 for their rent related monthly costs.

      California Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      California 7.25% 10.5%

      California Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      California 1% 13.3%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Banning, CA30,94511818.0%
      San Bernardino, CA221,91012423.5%
      Crestline, CA9,72312323.0%
      Calimesa, CA9,44612424.1%
      Running Springs, CA4,50912323.4%
      Mentone, CA10,47112827.5%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Golden Hills, CA10,47012424.0%
      Cedar Hills, UT10,47213332.9%
      London, OH10,474928.1%
      Mount Airy, NC10,4679010.0%
      Woodburn, VA10,47516262.4%
      Mentone, CA10,47112827.5%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.