Salary And Cost Of Living In Claremont CA

Claremont, CA, often called the “City of Trees and PhDs,” is a highly desirable community in eastern Los Angeles County. Known for its historic downtown “Village,” leafy neighborhoods, and the prestigious Claremont Colleges, the city combines small‑town charm with access to the broader Southern California job market. However, with its desirable amenities comes a higher price tag. Understanding the salary expectations and cost of living in Claremont, CA is essential if you are considering relocating, changing jobs, or purchasing property in the area.

Below, we explore average salaries, overall living costs, housing prices, rental rates, neighborhoods, and schools in Claremont, CA, to help you make an informed decision.

Average Salary In Claremont CA

Claremont’s job market is strongly influenced by education, healthcare, and professional services, thanks in part to the Claremont Colleges, nearby hospitals, and regional corporate employers. While many residents commute to nearby employment centers like Pasadena, Ontario, and downtown Los Angeles, income levels in Claremont are relatively strong compared with national averages.

The following table summarizes typical salary ranges in Claremont, CA (approximate and subject to change based on experience and employer):

Job Category	Typical Annual Salary Range
Education (College Faculty / Staff)	$55,000 – $120,000+
Healthcare Professionals	$60,000 – $150,000+
Business & Finance	$55,000 – $130,000+
Technology & Engineering	$70,000 – $140,000+
Retail & Service	$30,000 – $55,000

In general, household incomes in Claremont, CA tend to be higher than the national median, which helps offset the elevated housing and transportation costs in the region. Many dual‑income professional households choose Claremont for its schools, walkable village, and high quality of life.

Cost Of Living In Claremont CA

When considering a move, it is crucial to evaluate the overall cost of living in Claremont, CA rather than salary alone. Relative to the national average, Claremont’s cost of living is significantly higher, driven largely by housing, but also by transportation and services typical of Southern California communities.

The chart below gives a high‑level comparison of major cost categories, using the U.S. national average (100) as a baseline index:

Cost Category	Claremont, CA Index	Description
Overall Cost Of Living	140 – 150	Roughly 40–50% higher than the national average
Housing	200+	Largest contributor; home prices are significantly higher
Groceries	110 – 115	Moderately above national average
Transportation	130 – 140	Fuel, insurance, and commuting costs are higher
Healthcare	105 – 115	Slightly above national averages

In practical terms, this means that your day‑to‑day expenses in Claremont, CA will be noticeably higher than in many parts of the country. However, residents benefit from safe neighborhoods, parks, cultural activities, and strong local services, which many find justify the additional cost.

Average Home Values And Rents In Claremont CA

Housing is the primary driver of the cost of living in Claremont, CA. The city is known for its charming historic homes, quiet cul‑de‑sacs, and well‑kept streets, factors that help support higher real estate values. Additionally, its strong school district and proximity to the Claremont Colleges contribute to steady demand.

Below is an overview of average home values and rental prices in Claremont, CA (approximate and subject to market fluctuations):

Property Type	Typical Price / Monthly Rent
Single‑Family Home (Median Value)	$900,000 – $1,200,000+
Condominium / Townhome (Median Value)	$600,000 – $800,000
1‑Bedroom Apartment Rent	$1,900 – $2,400 per month
2‑Bedroom Apartment Rent	$2,400 – $3,000+ per month
Single‑Family Home Rent	$3,000 – $4,500+ per month

Because Claremont, CA has limited land for new development, residential inventory is often tight, which can lead to competitive bidding on desirable homes. Renters will also find that proximity to the Claremont Colleges and the Village can command a premium. For buyers and renters alike, working with a local real estate professional familiar with Claremont, CA neighborhoods and micro‑markets can be highly beneficial.

Best Neighborhoods In Claremont CA

Claremont offers a diverse mix of neighborhoods, each with its own character, price point, and lifestyle. Whether you prefer historic homes, family‑oriented subdivisions, or proximity to the colleges and downtown, you will likely find a good fit in one of the city’s well‑known areas.

Here is a snapshot of some of the best neighborhoods in Claremont, CA and what sets them apart:

Neighborhood	Key Features	Typical Home Prices
Claremont Village Area	Walkable to shops, restaurants, and Metrolink; charming historic homes and bungalows.	High – often above $1,000,000
North Claremont / Foothills	Larger lots, mountain views, proximity to hiking trails and parks.	Upper mid‑range to luxury
College Park & South Claremont	More moderately priced homes and townhouses; convenient freeway access.	Moderate to upper moderate
Claremont Colleges Area	Tree‑lined streets, academic environment, mix of rentals and owner‑occupied homes.	Moderate to high

Location within Claremont, CA plays a key role in both lifestyle and housing cost. The Village and northern neighborhoods tend to carry premium pricing due to aesthetics, amenities, and views, while southern areas may offer slightly more affordability with good access to regional transportation routes.

Schools And Education In Claremont CA

For many families, one of the biggest draws to Claremont, CA is its highly regarded public school system. The Claremont Unified School District (CUSD) is known for strong academic performance, engaged teachers, and robust extracurricular offerings. Additionally, the presence of the Claremont Colleges adds a distinct intellectual and cultural dimension to daily life in the city.

The table below highlights the main components of the education landscape in Claremont, CA:

School Type	Examples / Notes
Public Elementary Schools	Multiple neighborhood schools serving different areas of Claremont, often highly rated for academics and community involvement.
Public Middle & High Schools	Claremont High School is well‑known for its academic programs, arts, and athletics; local middle schools feed into the high school with strong preparation.
Private & Independent Schools	Several private and parochial options exist in and around Claremont, CA, attracting families seeking smaller class sizes or specialized curricula.
Higher Education	The Claremont Colleges consortium (including Pomona College, Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd, and others) provides extensive cultural events, lectures, and employment opportunities.

Because of the strong school system, families considering Claremont, CA often view higher housing costs as a trade‑off for educational quality. The combination of public and private options, along with nearby community colleges and universities, gives residents access to robust learning opportunities at every stage of life.

Living In Claremont CA Balancing Salary Lifestyle And Value

When evaluating a move to Claremont, CA, it is important to weigh your earning potential against the higher cost of living. Salaries in education, healthcare, and professional fields can be competitive, especially for experienced professionals or dual‑income households, but housing and everyday expenses will likely exceed what you might pay in many other regions.

At the same time, Claremont, CA offers noteworthy advantages: a walkable and vibrant Village area, access to the cultural resources of the Claremont Colleges, excellent public schools, and attractive neighborhoods with mature trees and mountain views. For many residents, these quality‑of‑life benefits help justify the investment.

If you are considering relocating, start by assessing your potential salary in Claremont, CA, estimate mortgage or rent payments based on current market values, and factor in transportation and lifestyle expenses. By aligning your financial expectations with the realities of the local market, you can determine whether Claremont, CA provides the right balance of opportunity, comfort, and long‑term value for you and your household.