Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in La Verne, CA
La Verne, CA
Living In La Verne CA Overview
La Verne, CA is a desirable small city in the eastern San Gabriel Valley, known for its tree‑lined streets, strong schools, and proximity to both Los Angeles and the Inland Empire. As more professionals and families consider moving to this community, understanding the salary expectations and cost of living in La Verne, California becomes crucial for smart financial planning. From average incomes and housing prices to neighborhood options and local schools, this guide provides a comprehensive, locally focused overview to help you evaluate whether La Verne fits your lifestyle and budget.
Average Salary In La Verne CA
When exploring job opportunities in La Verne, CA, it is important to consider local earnings. While exact figures vary by source and year, data for the broader La Verne–San Gabriel Valley area suggests the following ranges:
Typical income levels in La Verne, CA:
| Income Metric | Estimated Amount (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Median Household Income – La Verne, CA | $90,000 – $105,000 |
| Per Capita Income – La Verne, CA | $38,000 – $45,000 |
| Typical Professional Salary Range | $60,000 – $120,000 |
| Entry-Level Positions | $35,000 – $50,000 |
Because La Verne is a commuter-friendly city, many residents work in nearby employment hubs such as Pasadena, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, or downtown Los Angeles. This often means that local residents may earn big-city salaries while enjoying La Verne’s quieter, suburban lifestyle. Industries such as education, healthcare, logistics, and professional services are major employers in and around La Verne, CA.
Cost Of Living In La Verne CA
The cost of living in La Verne, CA is higher than the national average, though generally in line with other desirable communities in Los Angeles County’s eastern corridor. Housing is the largest expense, but residents must also plan for transportation, groceries, utilities, and healthcare.
| Cost Category | La Verne CA Index* | US Average = 100 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost Of Living – La Verne, CA | 135 – 145 | 100 |
| Housing | 170 – 190 | 100 |
| Groceries | 110 – 120 | 100 |
| Transportation | 120 – 130 | 100 |
| Healthcare | 100 – 110 | 100 |
| Utilities | 95 – 105 | 100 |
*Index values are approximate and may vary by source and year.
As this cost of living comparison shows, housing and transportation are the biggest cost drivers in La Verne, California. Commuters often spend more on fuel and vehicle maintenance due to freeway travel. However, many residents feel that the safety, local amenities, and strong community atmosphere justify the higher costs.
Average Home Values And Rents In La Verne CA
Real estate in La Verne, CA is highly sought after, thanks to its reputation as a safe, family-oriented city with strong schools and a small-town feel. Home prices have increased over the past decade, reflecting rising demand across Los Angeles County.
| Housing Metric – La Verne CA | Estimated Price / Rent |
|---|---|
| Median Single-Family Home Value | $800,000 – $950,000+ |
| Typical Condo/Townhome Value | $550,000 – $750,000 |
| 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 |
Although these numbers may shift with market conditions, La Verne, CA consistently remains more affordable than many Westside and coastal Los Angeles neighborhoods, yet more expensive than inland markets. Prospective buyers appreciate the variety of housing styles, from mid-century ranch homes and newer subdivisions to townhomes near the city center.
To help visualize how purchase and rental costs compare within La Verne, CA, the following chart summarizes typical ranges:
| Property Type – La Verne CA | Buy Range | Rent Range (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Condo | $550,000 – $650,000 | $2,100 – $2,500 |
| Typical 3-Bed Single-Family Home | $800,000 – $900,000 | $3,000 – $3,600 |
| Premium Home / Larger Lot | $950,000 – $1.2M+ | $3,800 – $4,500+ |
Buyers in La Verne, CA should be prepared for competitive offers, especially in neighborhoods near top-rated schools. Working with a local real estate professional who understands micro-market trends can be invaluable when navigating this active housing market.
Best Neighborhoods In La Verne CA
La Verne, California offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own character, amenities, and price points. While “best” is subjective and depends on your needs, several areas are consistently popular among homebuyers and renters.
| Neighborhood – La Verne CA | Key Features | Typical Home Prices |
|---|---|---|
| North La Verne / Foothill Area | Scenic foothill views, larger lots, proximity to hiking trails, quiet residential streets. | $900,000 – $1.3M+ |
| Old Town La Verne | Charming historic homes, walkability, local shops, restaurants, and easy access to the University of La Verne. | $750,000 – $950,000 |
| Downtown / University District | Mixed housing types, student-friendly rentals, cafes, and transit access. | $600,000 – $850,000 (ownership); rents vary |
| East La Verne | Suburban feel, parks, good access to major routes like the 210 and 10 freeways. | $750,000 – $1M |
Families often gravitate to North La Verne and established residential tracts near top-rated schools, while students and young professionals may prefer the Old Town and University areas for their walkability and energy. When considering neighborhoods in La Verne, CA, it is wise to tour at different times of day to get a sense of traffic, noise, and community activity.
Schools In La Verne CA
For many residents, the quality of schools is a primary reason to move to La Verne, California. The city is served primarily by the Bonita Unified School District, which has a strong reputation in the region. In addition, La Verne is home to the University of La Verne, a well-regarded private university that further enhances the city’s academic environment.
| School Level – La Verne CA | Examples Of Local Schools | Notable Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Schools | Oak Mesa Elementary, La Verne Heights Elementary, Roynon Elementary | Strong community involvement, well-rated performance, neighborhood-based campuses. |
| Middle Schools | Ramona Middle School | Diverse academic programs, extracurricular activities, and athletics. |
| High Schools | Bonita High School (shared with nearby San Dimas) | Recognized for academics, sports, and arts; a major draw for families relocating to La Verne. |
| Higher Education | University of La Verne | Undergraduate and graduate degrees, law and business programs, strong local partnerships. |
Parents moving to La Verne, CA often cite the school system as one of the most compelling reasons to choose this city. As with any move, families should verify current school boundaries and performance data, since attendance zones and ratings can change over time.
Is La Verne CA A Good Place To Live
When you weigh the salary levels, cost of living, and quality of life in La Verne, CA, the city stands out as an appealing option for professionals, families, and retirees who value safety, education, and community. While home prices and rents are higher than the national average, incomes in the region help offset those costs, and many residents appreciate the balance between suburban comfort and regional accessibility.
From the walkable streets of Old Town La Verne to the scenic neighborhoods along the foothills, the city offers a variety of housing choices at different price points. At the same time, the combination of reputable public schools, access to higher education, and nearby employment centers makes La Verne, California a strong contender for long-term living and investment.
Ultimately, deciding whether La Verne, CA is right for you depends on your financial goals, lifestyle preferences, and career plans. By carefully considering local salaries, housing costs, neighborhood options, and school quality, you can make a confident decision about calling La Verne home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in La Verne, CA
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