Cost of Living in Sunnyvale, CA

In 2022, the estimated population of Sunnyvale, a city in Santa Clara County, California, in the United States, is 159,731.

What is the Cost of Living in Sunnyvale, CA?

Sunnyvale has one of the country's highest cost of living rates, 135 percent higher than the average. The price of food, transportation, and medical care is also relatively high. Despite these high costs, Sunnyvale continues to draw visitors due to its pleasant climate, multicultural population, and proximity to Silicon Valley. The numerous amenities and opportunities Sunnyvale offer frequently make up for the high cost of living, although it can be a problem.

The following are a few significant expenses contributing to the cost of living in Sunnyvale.

Housing
In Sunnyvale, California, housing costs are just one of the many costs of living. Sunnyvale's median home price is $1,700,000, and the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,950. These costs are significantly higher than the national averages of $1,326 for rent and $428,700 for homes.

Utilities
An individual's average monthly utility bill is between $50 and $100. This covers the gas, phone, and electricity bills. An average family of four pays about $200 per month for utilities.
In Sunnyvale, the average monthly phone bill is $202.58, gas costs an average of $5.38 per gallon, and energy costs an average of $184.10 per month.

Transportation
Transportation costs are one of the significant expenses in the cost of living in Sunnyvale, California. In Sunnyvale, the average monthly price of transportation is $1,724, which is higher than the $1,512 national average.

Sunnyvale is a car-dependent city, contributing to the high transportation cost. In Sunnyvale, 96% of homes have one or more cars, and an average family spends $948 per month on gas.

Food
A family of four will spend $2,012.50 per month, or $24,150 annually, on groceries. Items like a loaf of bread that cost $2.98, a gallon of milk that cost $3.19, and a carton of eggs that cost $3.25 are included.

Healthcare
In Sunnyvale, the average doctor's visit is $157.27, while the average cost of a dentist's visit is $134.48.

Childcare
A private preschool can cost a family with young children around $2,000 per month. Families with school-age children pay upwards of $15,000 yearly for primary education.

Clothing
A pair of jeans (Levis 501 or similar) can cost around $50, a pair of business shoes can cost up to $130, and a pair of sneakers can cost at least $105.71. Up to $33.75 may be spent on a summer dress.

Recreation Activities
In Sunnyvale, a movie ticket may cost more than $20, and a monthly gym membership may easily exceed $100. Many parks in Sunnyvale charge an entrance fee, so even something as simple as going to a park can add up.

Sunnyvale's Cost of Living in Comparison to Other California Cities

Sunnyvale has many advantages for residents, including lovely weather, proximity to Cupertino and San Jose, and top-notch public schools. It does, however, also have a high cost of living.

Affordable Neighborhoods in Sunnyvale

Sunnyvale East
Sunnyvale's most affordable area is Sunnyvale East, which is close to Sunnyvale Avenue and the Lawrence Expressway.

Victory Village
Family-friendly amenities like a swimming pool, playgrounds, and a community center are available at Victory Village, making it a great choice. It is close to Sunnyvale Avenue and El Camino Real.

Birdland
There are many tech businesses in the neighborhood of Birdland, near Cupertino. Birdland is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails and opportunities for birdwatching.

Lakewood Village
Moffett Field is close to Lakewood Village, which provides access to several parks and recreational areas. The neighborhood of Lakewood Village offers a serene and quiet environment.

Ponderosa
Residents of the Ponderosa neighborhood can easily access Silicon Valley because it is close to Highway 101.

Getting the Most from Sunnyvale: Tips for Lowering its Costs

The cost of living in Sunnyvale can be decreased in several different ways.
Search for a neighborhood that is affordable and has the amenities you need. Take advantage of recreation opportunities that are free or inexpensive, such as visiting parks or going to local events. So that you don't overspend, set aside money for clothing and other necessities. Shop at food cooperatives and farmer's markets. You'll support regional agriculture and receive cheaper, fresher food. Go solar. Take advantage of the fact that Sunnyvale is one of the sunniest cities in the nation by adding solar panels to your house. You'll not only reduce your energy costs, but you'll also be doing your part to protect the environment. Reduce the amount of water you use. It's crucial to conserve water whenever possible because California is experiencing a severe drought. Installing low-flow showerheads and toilets in your home is a simple way to achieve this.

Making the most of your money is possible by using this advice to lower Sunnyvale's cost of living.