Salary And Cost Of Living In Duarte CA

Duarte, CA, located in the San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County, offers a compelling blend of suburban comfort, scenic foothill views, and proximity to major employment hubs. For anyone considering relocating to this community, understanding the salary expectations, cost of living, housing market, and quality of schools in Duarte, California is essential. The following guide provides a detailed, locally focused overview to help you evaluate whether Duarte aligns with your financial and lifestyle goals.

Average Salary In Duarte CA

Duarte’s economy is influenced by its proximity to Pasadena, Monrovia, and the greater Los Angeles region, along with major local employers such as healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and professional services. While actual earnings vary by industry and experience, the average annual salary in Duarte, CA typically ranges from about $60,000 to $80,000 for full-time workers, which is relatively comparable to many nearby San Gabriel Valley communities.

To give a clearer sense of earnings across typical roles in the area, the table below outlines estimated average salaries in Duarte, California. These figures are illustrative and may differ based on experience, credentials, and employer.

Job Title (Duarte, CA)	Estimated Average Annual Salary
Registered Nurse	$90,000 – $115,000
Public School Teacher	$70,000 – $95,000
Administrative Assistant	$45,000 – $60,000
Software Engineer (Commuting to LA/Pasadena)	$110,000 – $150,000
Retail / Customer Service Associate	$35,000 – $45,000

Professionals in healthcare, education, and technology often find that Duarte offers a strong balance between earning potential and a quieter, more residential lifestyle compared to some denser parts of Los Angeles. Additionally, many residents choose to live in Duarte while commuting to larger job markets, leveraging slightly lower housing costs than in core Westside or downtown Los Angeles neighborhoods.

Cost Of Living In Duarte CA

The cost of living in Duarte, California is higher than the national average, largely driven by housing, transportation, and services common to Southern California communities. However, compared with many other Los Angeles County cities, especially coastal or downtown areas, Duarte can feel more accessible to middle-income households.

Below is an approximate breakdown of typical monthly living expenses for a single adult living in Duarte. These estimates are illustrative and do not include discretionary spending or significant debt payments.

Expense Category (Duarte, CA)	Estimated Monthly Cost
Rent (1-Bedroom Apartment)	$1,900 – $2,400
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Trash)	$160 – $250
Internet & Mobile Phone	$100 – $180
Groceries & Household Items	$400 – $650
Transportation (Gas, Insurance, Metro)	$250 – $450
Healthcare & Insurance (Out-of-Pocket)	$150 – $300
Dining Out & Entertainment	$200 – $400

When all essential expenses are combined, monthly costs for a single resident in Duarte, CA often fall between $3,100 and $4,600, depending on lifestyle. Households with children should also factor in childcare, larger housing needs, and additional transportation or activity expenses. As with any Southern California city, careful budgeting is important to ensure that your income comfortably supports your desired lifestyle.

Average Home Values And Rents In Duarte CA

The housing market in Duarte, CA features a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, and apartment communities. The city offers tree-lined neighborhoods and mountain views, which can add to the area’s desirability and, subsequently, its price points.

Duarte home prices have generally followed the broader Los Angeles County upward trend, with median home values commonly reaching into the high $600,000s to mid-$800,000s, depending on location, size, and condition. Meanwhile, rents reflect the limited supply of quality rentals in the San Gabriel Valley.

The table below provides an overview of typical home values and rental rates in Duarte, California:

Property Type (Duarte, CA)	Estimated Price / Rent Range
Median Single-Family Home Value	$700,000 – $850,000
Townhome / Condo Purchase Price	$500,000 – $700,000
1-Bedroom Apartment Rent	$1,900 – $2,400 per month
2-Bedroom Apartment Rent	$2,300 – $2,900 per month
Single-Family Home Rental	$3,000 – $4,200 per month

Because the real estate market in Duarte, CA is competitive, buyers and renters may benefit from working with a local real estate agent familiar with each micro-neighborhood and current inventory. Additionally, homebuyers should carefully consider property taxes, potential HOA dues, and insurance costs—especially in hillside areas near the San Gabriel Mountains.

Best Neighborhoods In Duarte CA

Duarte is composed of several distinct residential areas, each with its own character, housing stock, and proximity to amenities. Whether you are relocating for work, looking for a family-friendly community, or seeking a quieter suburban lifestyle, understanding the best neighborhoods in Duarte, California can help guide your search.

Neighborhood / Area (Duarte, CA)	General Characteristics
North Duarte / Foothill Area	Located closer to the San Gabriel Mountain foothills, this area features many single-family homes, quiet streets, and scenic views. It is popular with homeowners seeking a more established, residential feel.
Rancho Duarte / Duarte Golf Course Area	Near the green spaces and fairways of local golf facilities, this neighborhood appeals to those who enjoy outdoor recreation and a relaxed environment. Many homes offer larger lots and a suburban atmosphere.
Downtown Duarte / Huntington Drive Corridor	Along Huntington Drive, you will find a mix of residential, retail, and service businesses. This area provides convenient access to shops, restaurants, and public transportation, including bus and nearby rail options.
South Duarte	Closer to major transportation routes, South Duarte offers a blend of older and newer housing, plus easier freeway access for commuters traveling to Pasadena, the San Gabriel Valley, and greater Los Angeles.

When evaluating the top neighborhoods in Duarte, CA, consider how commute times, school boundaries, local parks, and walkability align with your priorities. Visiting at different times of day and speaking with current residents can also provide valuable insights into each area’s character and community feel.

Schools And Education In Duarte CA

Education quality is a major factor influencing both home values and overall quality of life. Duarte is served by the Duarte Unified School District (DUSD), along with access to nearby private, charter, and magnet school options in the broader San Gabriel Valley. Families often choose Duarte for its quieter environment and its network of local schools.

The table below highlights key elements of the school landscape in Duarte, California:

School Type (Duarte, CA Area)	General Information
Elementary Schools	Duarte Unified operates several elementary campuses serving grades K–5 or K–6. Many emphasize strong reading foundations, STEM exposure, and community involvement.
Middle Schools	Local middle school options offer core academics, introductory elective courses, and athletics, with a focus on preparing students for high school success.
Duarte High School	The primary public high school serves grades 9–12 and typically offers college-preparatory coursework, career and technical education, arts, and athletics programs.
Charter & Magnet Options	Families may access regional charter or magnet schools in nearby cities, particularly in specialized areas such as performing arts, STEM, or dual-language immersion.
Private Schools	The broader San Gabriel Valley hosts several private and parochial schools, which can appeal to families seeking alternative educational philosophies or religious instruction.

Prospective Duarte residents should review current test scores, program offerings, and campus reviews to determine which attendance zones and schools best fit their needs. School quality can change over time, so checking recent district data and visiting campuses is strongly recommended.

Is Duarte CA A Good Place To Live

Duarte, California, presents a compelling option for those seeking a suburban environment in the San Gabriel Valley with relatively strong salaries and a livable, though higher-than-average, cost of living. While housing and daily expenses are undeniably elevated compared to national norms, they are often more manageable than in some of the region’s most expensive coastal or central Los Angeles neighborhoods.

With attractive neighborhoods, access to employment centers, and a local school system that continues to evolve, Duarte, CA can be an excellent choice for professionals, families, and retirees who value a balance of affordability, amenities, and community character. By carefully reviewing average salaries, housing prices, neighborhood options, and school quality—and aligning them with your personal budget and goals—you can make a well-informed decision about whether life in Duarte, California, is the right fit for you.