Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Hacienda Heights, CA

Last Updated: September 26, 2025By Tags:
Hacienda Heights, CA

Salary And Cost Of Living In Hacienda Heights CA

Hacienda Heights, CA is a desirable suburban community in the San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County. Known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, strong schools, and convenient access to major freeways, it attracts professionals and families who want suburban comfort with urban proximity. As more people consider moving to this area, understanding the salary expectations, cost of living, home values, and local schools in Hacienda Heights, CA becomes essential for making an informed decision.

In the following sections, we will explore the average salary in Hacienda Heights, CA, break down the local cost of living, examine housing prices and rental rates, highlight some of the best neighborhoods, and review school options. This information is particularly useful for anyone planning a relocation or comparing Hacienda Heights to other Los Angeles communities.

Average Salary In Hacienda Heights CA

The average salary in Hacienda Heights, CA is influenced by its location within the Greater Los Angeles area and proximity to major employment centers in downtown Los Angeles, City of Industry, and the broader San Gabriel Valley. While salaries vary by industry and experience, residents often work in fields such as education, healthcare, logistics, government, and professional services.

Below is an illustrative overview of estimated average annual salaries for common occupations in Hacienda Heights, CA and surrounding areas:

Occupation (Hacienda Heights CA Area) Estimated Average Annual Salary
Registered Nurse $95,000 – $115,000
Public School Teacher $70,000 – $90,000
Administrative Assistant $45,000 – $60,000
Warehouse / Logistics Coordinator $45,000 – $65,000
Software Developer (Commuting To LA/Orange County) $105,000 – $140,000
Retail Supervisor / Store Manager $50,000 – $70,000

Because many residents commute to nearby job hubs, earning power in Hacienda Heights, CA often reflects regional metropolitan wages rather than purely local employment. Professionals in technology, engineering, finance, and healthcare who work in surrounding cities but choose to live in Hacienda Heights can typically command higher incomes, helping to offset the area’s relatively high housing costs.

Cost Of Living In Hacienda Heights CA

The cost of living in Hacienda Heights, CA is higher than the national average, primarily due to housing, transportation, and general California expenses such as taxes and insurance. However, it is often considered more affordable than some Westside Los Angeles or coastal Orange County communities, making it an attractive compromise between quality of life and cost.

The following table provides a simplified view of how key expense categories in Hacienda Heights compare to a national baseline (indexed at 100):

Expense Category Hacienda Heights CA Index National Average Index = 100
Overall Cost Of Living 145 – 155 100
Housing 190 – 210 100
Groceries 110 – 120 100
Utilities 95 – 105 100
Transportation 130 – 140 100
Healthcare 105 – 115 100

To better visualize the relative cost pressures, here is a simple comparative chart of major spending categories for Hacienda Heights, CA:

Category Relative Level (Compared To US Average)
Housing ███████████████ High
Transportation ██████████ Above Average
Groceries ██████ Slightly Above Average
Healthcare █████ Slightly Above Average
Utilities ████ About Average

As this comparison shows, housing in Hacienda Heights, CA is the largest cost factor, while groceries, transportation, and healthcare run modestly higher than national norms. Residents can often manage overall expenses by taking advantage of local shopping centers, carpooling, and using nearby transit options where available.

Average Home Values And Rents In Hacienda Heights CA

The real estate market in Hacienda Heights, CA is competitive and reflects strong demand for suburban homes in Los Angeles County. Single-family homes dominate the housing stock, with a mix of older ranch-style homes, mid-century properties, and newer developments in certain pockets.

Here is an overview of typical home values and rental prices in Hacienda Heights, CA (approximate and subject to market changes):

Housing Type Typical Price / Monthly Rent
Median Single-Family Home Value $850,000 – $1,000,000+
Entry-Level Condo / Townhome $550,000 – $700,000
Luxury Or View Home $1,100,000 – $1,600,000+
Average 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent $1,900 – $2,300 / month
Average 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent $2,300 – $2,800 / month
Average 3-Bedroom Single-Family Rental $3,000 – $3,800 / month

Because of its convenient location, homes in Hacienda Heights, CA often appreciate steadily, appealing to long-term owners and investors. Renters benefit from a range of options from small apartment communities to single-family homes, though availability can be limited in peak moving seasons.

Best Neighborhoods In Hacienda Heights CA

When evaluating the best neighborhoods in Hacienda Heights, CA, most residents focus on school zones, commute times, and overall neighborhood character. While preferences are subjective, several areas consistently stand out for their livability and community feel.

Below is a high-level look at some popular neighborhoods and residential pockets in Hacienda Heights, CA:

Neighborhood / Area Key Features
Hilltop & Canyon Areas (Near Turnbull Canyon) Scenic hillside homes, some with panoramic views; quieter streets; quick access to hiking trails and nature.
Neighborhoods Near Hacienda Boulevard & Colima Road Central location, close to shopping, restaurants, and services; mix of single-family homes and townhomes.
Areas Around Glen A. Wilson High School Highly sought after by families; proximity to well-regarded schools; established residential streets.
Neighborhoods Near Pepperbrook Park And Countrywood Park Family-friendly vibe with parks and playgrounds; relatively walkable to local conveniences.
East Hacienda Heights Residential Pockets Primarily suburban with larger lots in some sections; appealing for buyers seeking more yard space.

Across these neighborhoods, residents often highlight the quiet, suburban environment of Hacienda Heights, CA combined with strong cultural diversity and access to regional shopping centers such as Puente Hills Mall and the commercial corridors along Colima Road.

Schools In Hacienda Heights CA

For many families, the quality of schools in Hacienda Heights, CA is one of the main reasons to live in the area. Hacienda Heights is primarily served by the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District, which operates a range of elementary, middle, and high schools, some of which are highly rated for academic performance and college readiness.

Here is a sample overview of notable public schools serving Hacienda Heights, CA (not an exhaustive list and ratings may change over time):

School Type Notable Highlights
Glen A. Wilson High School High School Known for strong academics, college prep programs, and a variety of extracurricular activities.
Los Altos High School (Nearby) High School Serves parts of the area; offers AP courses, athletics, and visual and performing arts programs.
Mesa Robles School K–8 School Popular with local families; continuous K–8 environment with community-focused culture.
Grazide Elementary School Elementary Recognized for strong performance and parent involvement; located near residential neighborhoods.
Los Robles Academy Elementary / Middle Offers a variety of academic programs and serves a diverse student population.

In addition to public schools, residents of Hacienda Heights, CA have access to several private and parochial schools in the surrounding San Gabriel Valley, as well as nearby community colleges and universities, making it a strong choice for families focused on education.

Living Comfortably In Hacienda Heights CA

Evaluating the salary and cost of living in Hacienda Heights, CA reveals a community that offers many advantages, including strong schools, diverse neighborhoods, and convenient access to greater Los Angeles. At the same time, residents must plan carefully for higher housing and transportation costs than the national average.

For households with competitive metropolitan-level salaries, Hacienda Heights can provide a comfortable and stable lifestyle with the benefits of suburban living. Prospective residents are encouraged to review current home prices, rents, and local salary data in Hacienda Heights, CA, visit neighborhoods in person, and consider school boundaries when deciding where to live. With informed planning, Hacienda Heights, CA can be an excellent place to put down roots and enjoy both community and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Hacienda Heights, CA

What is it like to live in Hacienda Heights, CA?

Hacienda Heights offers a suburban residential environment with a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and some apartment communities. The area is known for relatively quiet neighborhoods, strong community ties, and convenient access to shopping centers, groceries, and dining options along major corridors like Colima Road and Gale Avenue. Residents appreciate the proximity to both Los Angeles and Orange County employment centers while still enjoying a less dense, more residential setting than downtown areas. The community is culturally diverse, family-oriented, and supported by local parks, libraries, and community organizations.

How is the cost of living and housing market in Hacienda Heights?

The cost of living in Hacienda Heights is generally higher than the national average but comparable to many other suburban communities in Los Angeles County. Housing is the largest expense, with home prices and rents reflecting its desirable location near major freeways, employment hubs, and quality schools. The market features primarily owner-occupied single-family homes, along with some condominiums and rental units. Property taxes, utilities, and everyday expenses such as groceries and services are in line with broader Southern California costs. Prospective residents should budget accordingly and may want to consult a local real estate professional for the most current pricing trends.

What are the schools and educational options like in Hacienda Heights?

Hacienda Heights is served primarily by the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District, which operates several elementary, middle, and high schools in the area. Many families are drawn to the community because certain schools are well-regarded for academic programs, extracurricular activities, and college preparation. In addition to public schools, there are private and faith-based schools within driving distance, as well as nearby community colleges and universities in the San Gabriel Valley and greater Los Angeles region. When evaluating educational options, parents often review state rankings, test scores, language programs, and special education services to determine the best fit for their children.

What amenities, recreation, and cultural attractions are available in Hacienda Heights?

Hacienda Heights offers a variety of parks, hiking trails, and community facilities for residents. Popular outdoor destinations include the hills and trails around the Puente Hills Preserve, which provide scenic views and walking paths, and local parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The community is also home to the Hsi Lai Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples in the Western Hemisphere, which serves as both a religious center and cultural attraction. Residents have access to public libraries, recreation programs, youth sports, and a wide selection of restaurants and shops reflecting the area’s diverse cultural influences. Major regional malls and entertainment venues are accessible in neighboring cities within a short drive.

How is the commute, transportation, and overall accessibility in Hacienda Heights?

Hacienda Heights is located near several major freeways, including the Pomona Freeway (SR-60) and nearby access to the San Gabriel River Freeway (I-605) and Orange Freeway (SR-57), providing connectivity to Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting, and traffic can be heavy during peak hours, particularly on the SR-60 corridor. Public transportation options include local and regional bus routes that connect to neighboring cities and transit centers, but service levels may not fully replace the convenience of a car for all commuters. Proximity to these major routes, however, makes it relatively straightforward to reach airports, employment centers, universities, and regional attractions across Southern California.

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