Credit: City of San Bernardino.
Save
Finding a place to live in SoCal, without breaking the bank, is basically a full-time job. We all want to be close enough to L.A.’s vibrant nightlife, endless food spots, and career opportunities, without sacrificing our savings. Luckily, this spot nearby offers a perfect balance for those on a budget.
According to a recently published report by the real estate platform Zumper, San Bernardino is officially the most affordable city in Los Angeles County. The study analyzed active listings that hit the market last month, aggregating them by city to calculate median asking rents, providing a snapshot of current rental prices, a nd showing which areas offer the most budget-friendly options for renters.
How much does rent cost in San Bernardino? 
Photo courtesy of San Bernardino County.
Looking at the latest data on rental prices shows just how far your dollar can stretch in this city compared to others in the area. Zumper states that one‑bedroom apartments in San Bernardino were the most affordable at about $1,480 per month, significantly lower than the broader California median sitting above $2,000 a month.
San Bernardino’s affordability becomes even clearer when you look at its close neighbors’ one-bedroom standard. Corona’s (placed at the second most affordable place on the list) averages $1,610, while Riverside clocks in above that at about $1,740.
Why live in San Bernardino? 
Big Bear Lake | Kit Leong via Sutterstock.
San Bernardino’s reputation for affordability doesn’t exist in a bubble; there are real reasons people decide to call it home, and most of them are related to life outdoors. The city sits at the gateway to the San Bernardino Mountains, and nearby natural wonders like Sand to Snow National Monument offer endless trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic escapes that are hard to beat.
Just down the road, you’ll find Glen Helen Regional Park, a sprawling 1,300‑acre space with hiking, picnicking, lakes, and even the Glen Helen Amphitheater, the largest outdoor music venue in the United States. And for a true mountain escape, Big Bear Lake is just a short drive away, offering boating, skiing, and a full-on outdoor playground for all seasons.