F
76%
Overall NAT. AVG.
8%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
221%
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 Monrovia California National
Cost of living176141100
Groceries108111100
Health care113116100
Housing321197100
Transportation113118100
Utilities119119100
Lifestyle & Entertainment117120100
Household Items108111100
Education & Childcare124127100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Monrovia, CA

Getting a feel for the cost of living in Monrovia is essential for anyone planning to relocate, as it empowers them to make informed financial decisions, secure a comfortable lifestyle and maintain financial stability in their new environment. The cost of living in Monrovia is 176, which is 76% higher than the national average. Relocating individuals may need to adjust their savings and investment strategies based on the cost of living in the new location. It influences decisions about retirement planning, investments and financial goals.

The cost of living in Monrovia is among the highest in the country, making it a very expensive place to live. Only a small fraction of regions boast a cost of living that is at least 20% higher than the national average, and regrettably, Monrovia falls into this category, which may not be suitable for those seeking an economically favorable living environment.

Housing costs are a major factor in the Monrovia cost of living index, and they often eat up a big chunk of your take-home pay. Unfortunately, in this area, housing expenses for both homeownership and rentals were 220.9% higher than what's typical in an average city. That includes the prices of homes and rents, as well as mortgage rates and insurance.

Is Monrovia Affordable?

Is Monrovia affordable? It's a key consideration when pondering a move, as affordability often shapes your choices. The cost of living index (we discussed it earlier), coupled with housing costs and income levels, serves as the cornerstone for determining a location's affordability. Take Monrovia, for instance, where the median home price falls 283.6% higher than the national average, and monthly rent rates are 74.5% higher than usual. Additionally, median income levels contribute to the equation, with Monrovia flaunting a median household income of $123,395, 51.7% higher than the national norm.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Monrovia?

Taxes: Cities that impose higher taxes, including sales and income taxes, can contribute to an escalated cost of living. The added expense of taxes on everyday goods like clothing and food naturally results in higher overall costs. Similarly, a higher income tax rate can further elevate the cost of living. In Monrovia, the general sales tax rate starts at 7.25%, and income tax rates begin at 1%.

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 Monrovia, the healthcare costs are 13.3% higher than the national average.

Transportation: When public transportation options are limited or non-existent, residents frequently resort to vehicle ownership, which can significantly contribute to the overall cost of living. Monthly financial obligations encompass fuel, insurance, regular maintenance and potentially lease or financing expenses. In Monrovia, the transportation index is 13.3% higher than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living estimates displayed for Monrovia are modeled using a U.S. average baseline of 100, helping provide a useful comparison of local living expenses. Housing calculations include U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are AI-assisted estimates based on regional cost patterns, climate, transportation, and everyday spending expectations. These values are intended for directional comparisons across cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Monrovia is 25% higher than the California average
  • The cost of living in Monrovia is 76% higher than the national average
  • Monrovia housing is 221% 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 Monrovia

See all the best places to live around Monrovia

Compare Monrovia, 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$153,185$12,765$3,574$4,596
      Renters$100,210$8,351$2,338$3,007
      A good way to judge both the affordability of the housing and the cost of living in Monrovia is by simply calculating the maximum that should be spent on housing, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). The plan is to avoid spending more than 28 percent of the gross income on costs that pertain to housing and no more than 36 percent on all expenses and debts. Monrovia has a median income of about $153,185 for people who own homes. Based on that number, a maximum of $3,574 should be spent on expenses related to housing. Renters have a slightly different median income, which is $100,210. Based on this average, renters should spend no more than $2,338 on all rental costs if they want to maintain a non-impoverished standard of living.

      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.
      Vernon, CA25411716.8%
      Florence-Graham, CA66,60313838.2%
      Industry, CA26913737.1%
      Commerce, CA13,06613938.8%
      Bell Gardens, CA42,82713939.0%
      Monrovia, CA38,58617675.9%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Dover, DE38,6331011.0%
      Richmond West, FL38,53313232.4%
      Rock Island, IL38,6408910.9%
      Rosenberg, TX38,6481011.2%
      Braintree Town, MA38,51714949.1%
      Monrovia, CA38,58617675.9%
      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.