Los Angeles has high housing costs, with home prices appreciating over 200% since 2000 and a median home price of $576,100, lower than San Francisco and San Diego. Rent is also expensive, with median rents above national averages. Utilities average $146 monthly, and gas prices are around $4.09 per gallon. Public transit costs $1.75 per ride or $100 monthly. Food, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses like clothing and entertainment are above national averages. Sales tax starts at 9.5%.