F
44%
Overall NAT. AVG.
11%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
112%
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 Westmont California National
Cost of living144141100
Groceries111111100
Health care116116100
Housing212197100
Transportation116118100
Utilities116119100
Lifestyle & Entertainment115120100
Household Items111111100
Education & Childcare119127100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Westmont, CA

Understanding the cost of living in Westmont can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The Westmont cost of living index is 144, which is 44% higher than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.

The cost of living in Westmont 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, Westmont falls into this category, which may not be suitable for those seeking an economically favorable living environment.

Housing costs are a very significant part of the Westmont 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 112.4% more than the average city. This includes things like home and rent prices, mortgage rates and insurance.

Recurring household expenses such as cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, toiletries, and kitchen basics are a steady part of monthly spending and make up 8% of the cost of living index. In Westmont, these everyday items will cost you 11.4% more than average, making it a slightly more expensive place to call home.

The cost of groceries continues to rise at an alarming rate. Over the last two years, grocery prices have increased by more than 10%! Unfortunately, in Westmont, the news isn't any better as grocery prices are 11% higher than the national average.

Is Westmont Affordable?

Is Westmont affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Westmont, the median home price is 149.1% higher than the national average and monthly rent prices are 26.5% higher than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Westmont boasting a median household income of $61,416, 24.5% lower than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Westmont?

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 Westmont starts at 7.25% and the income tax rates start at 1%.

Utilities: Like everything else, utilities costs can range significantly depending on factors like climate, energy sources available, location and even state regulations. Things like electricity, water, heating and waste disposal costs can be higher or lower, depending on the city or state. The utilities index in Westmont comes in at 16.4% higher than the national average.

Groceries: Grocery costs have continued to increase significantly over the last 2-3 years. In some markets the cost of food has gone up by more than 20% in that period. While other markets have managed to see only a moderate uptick. These food costs can have a major impact on the cost of living in any area. In Westmont, the groceries index is 11% higher than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Westmont 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 Westmont is 2% higher than the California average
  • The cost of living in Westmont is 44% higher than the national average
  • Westmont housing is 112% 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 Westmont

See all the best places to live around Westmont

Compare Westmont, 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$110,831$9,236$2,586$3,325
      Renters$46,572$3,881$1,087$1,397
      A good way to judge both the affordability of the housing and the cost of living in Westmont 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. Westmont has a median income of about $110,831 for people who own homes. Based on that number, a maximum of $2,586 should be spent on expenses related to housing. Renters have a slightly different median income, which is $46,572. Based on this average, renters should spend no more than $1,087 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.
      Westside, CA21812423.9%
      Vernon, CA25411716.8%
      Rolling Hills CDP, CA85513333.4%
      Willowbrook, CA25,34713636.0%
      East Rancho Dominguez, CA15,76513636.3%
      Westmont, CA36,08814443.8%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Bell, CA36,11314242.4%
      Lebanon, TN36,1261098.6%
      Orangevale, CA36,04613938.8%
      Manhattan Beach, CA36,038340240.2%
      Monroe, NC36,140991.4%
      Westmont, CA36,08814443.8%
      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.