Extremely High Cost of Living

The most significant drawback of living in Huntington Beach is the steep cost of living. The median home price in Huntington Beach was $1,309,333 in April 2025, representing a 6.8% increase from the previous year. The median home value is $1,059,384, compared to the national average of $370,489. The median home price is $1,365,000 with a median price per square foot of $796.

The Huntington Beach Cost of Living Index is 180.5, meaning it’s 80.5% more expensive than the national average. The average cost of living is $3,238, ranking it as the 74th most expensive city out of 9,294 globally. The cost of living in Huntington Beach is 87% higher than the national average, with housing costs being 267% higher than the national average.

According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, an average worker would need to earn $48.83 per hour, or $2,539 per month, to afford a two-bedroom apartment without spending over 30% of their yearly income on housing. The average rent for a 2-bedroom home is $3,177, which is 101% more than the average rent across the US.

Heavy Traffic Congestion and Parking Challenges

Tourism fuels the local economy but brings summer crowds that overcrowd beaches, restaurants, and parking areas, with parking fees near popular spots like the pier surging to $30 per day in summer. Huntington Beach is one of the busiest parts of Orange County, with high traffic congestion making it a hotbed of accidents, ranking second for the most dangerous intersections in Orange County with 13 of the top 50 most dangerous intersections.

Business zone parking meters charge three dollars per hour in off-peak season and four dollars per hour in peak season, with special events like July 4th and Air Show seeing rates increase by an additional two dollars per hour. Most spots in Downtown Huntington Beach are metered, making parking both expensive and limited.

Tourist Crowds and Seasonal Overwhelm

The city plays host to an annual visitor population of over 11 million people, especially during summer, special events, and weekends. Events like the U.S. Open of Surfing exacerbate congestion, making it challenging for residents to enjoy their own city during peak months, with wait times at restaurants often exceeding an hour.

While tourism brings economic benefits, it also means crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions, especially during peak seasons. Summer months and major events can make the city feel overwhelming for residents seeking peace and quiet in their own neighborhoods.

Earthquake and Natural Disaster Risks

The chance of earthquake damage in Huntington Beach is much higher than the California average and much higher than the national average. In the past 10 years, 245 earthquakes with a magnitude of four or above have struck within 186 miles of Huntington Beach, averaging 24 earthquakes per year, or roughly one every 14 days.

Natural hazards are a part of living in Southern California, with earthquakes being the most likely scenario, but there is also potential for tsunamis, hazardous material spills, and other disasters. Rising sea levels threaten coastal erosion, with a 2024 study predicting a 12-inch rise by 2040, leading to steep insurance premiums for homeowners in flood zones.

Limited Public Transportation

Like much of Southern California, Huntington Beach relies heavily on car transportation. While there are some bus routes, the public transportation system is limited compared to major metropolitan areas, making car ownership essential for most residents. The average commute time is about 27.26 minutes, and with five major freeways nearby, traffic congestion can significantly impact daily commutes.

Air Quality Concerns

Despite coastal breezes, air quality occasionally suffers due to proximity to Los Angeles and traffic emissions. The combination of heavy traffic, industrial activity from nearby areas, and weather patterns can create smog and particulate matter issues, particularly during certain times of the year.

Economic and Demographic Snapshot

About 194,920 people live in Huntington Beach, with a median age of 43.3. As the fourth largest city in Orange County, Huntington Beach covers 28 square miles of land and 26 square miles of water, making it the 24th largest city in California.

The city’s schools serve a diverse population with 57% minority enrollment (majority Hispanic), which is less than the California public school average of 80%. 82% of all K-12 students in Huntington Beach are educated in public schools, compared to the California state average of 90%.

Making the Decision: Is Huntington Beach Right for You?

Living in Huntington Beach offers an enviable lifestyle with beautiful beaches, excellent weather, top-rated schools, and a vibrant community. The city provides exceptional recreational opportunities, a strong job market, and a relatively safe environment for families and professionals alike.

However, the extremely high cost of living—particularly housing costs that are nearly triple the national average—requires careful financial planning. Traffic congestion, tourist crowds, and natural disaster risks are additional factors to consider.

For those who prioritize coastal living and can manage the significant expenses, Huntington Beach provides an exceptional quality of life that few places can match. The key is honestly assessing your financial capabilities, lifestyle preferences, and tolerance for the challenges that come with living in one of California’s most desirable coastal communities.

The city’s combination of economic prosperity (with median household incomes well above national averages), excellent schools, abundant recreational opportunities, and Mediterranean climate continues to attract residents willing to pay premium prices for the “Surf City USA” lifestyle.

Planning a move to Huntington Beach? Whether you’re relocating from across the country or just across town, choosing the right moving company Huntington Beach can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth transition to your new coastal home.