Salary And Cost Of Living In Lawndale CA

Lawndale, CA, located in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County, offers residents a central location near major job centers, beaches, and transportation corridors. As more people consider moving to or investing in this compact city, understanding the salary levels, cost of living, housing market, neighborhoods, and schools in Lawndale, CA becomes increasingly important. The following guide provides a detailed, locally focused overview to help professionals, families, and investors make informed decisions.

Average Salary In Lawndale CA

The average salary in Lawndale, CA reflects its position within the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. Residents often commute to nearby employment hubs such as El Segundo, Torrance, Hawthorne, and downtown Los Angeles, which influences income ranges across industries.

While exact figures vary by source and occupation, typical annual earnings in and around Lawndale, CA are summarized below:

Job Category (Lawndale CA Area)	Typical Annual Salary Range
Retail & Customer Service	$32,000 – $45,000
Administrative & Office Support	$38,000 – $55,000
Skilled Trades & Technicians	$45,000 – $70,000
Education & Social Services	$50,000 – $80,000
Healthcare Professionals	$60,000 – $110,000
Engineering & Technology	$80,000 – $140,000+
Management & Corporate Roles	$90,000 – $160,000+

Many residents in Lawndale, California benefit from proximity to major employers in aerospace, technology, logistics, and healthcare. As a result, income levels may be somewhat higher than national averages but generally aligned with other South Bay communities. However, the relatively strong salary potential must be balanced against the city’s elevated housing and living costs.

Cost Of Living In Lawndale CA

The cost of living in Lawndale, CA is significantly higher than the national average, largely due to housing and transportation. Nonetheless, it is often perceived as somewhat more affordable than neighboring coastal cities like Manhattan Beach or Hermosa Beach.

To better understand the overall affordability of Lawndale, CA, the following table compares general cost of living categories to the U.S. base of 100 (estimates only):

Cost Category	Lawndale CA Index*	Comment
Overall Cost Of Living	145 – 155	Well above U.S. average, similar to many Los Angeles County areas
Housing	190 – 210	Primary driver of higher living costs in Lawndale, California
Groceries	110 – 120	Moderately higher than national average, similar to greater Los Angeles
Transportation	120 – 130	Car ownership, gas prices, and commuting expenses increase costs
Healthcare	105 – 115	Slightly above national norms, with strong regional medical access
Utilities	95 – 105	Generally close to national average, mild climate helps reduce extremes

*Index values are estimates for informational purposes and may vary over time.

Because Lawndale, CA is relatively compact, some residents can offset higher costs by reducing commute distances and consolidating errands. Nevertheless, anyone relocating to Lawndale should plan carefully for housing, transportation, and everyday expenses to ensure that their salary adequately supports their desired lifestyle.

Average Home Values And Rents In Lawndale CA

The real estate market in Lawndale, California has seen notable appreciation over the past decade, driven by its central South Bay location and constrained housing supply. Although prices are high compared with national averages, Lawndale often provides a more attainable entry point than some of the neighboring beach cities.

Below is a snapshot of typical home values and rents in Lawndale, CA (approximate figures only):

Property Type	Typical Price / Rent Range
Median Single-Family Home Value	$750,000 – $900,000
Median Condo / Townhome Value	$550,000 – $750,000
Average Rent – Studio Apartment	$1,600 – $1,900 per month
Average Rent – 1 Bedroom Apartment	$1,900 – $2,300 per month
Average Rent – 2 Bedroom Apartment	$2,300 – $2,800 per month
Average Rent – 3 Bedroom Home/Townhome	$2,900 – $3,600+ per month

As with many communities in Los Angeles County, Lawndale, CA home prices can vary widely based on condition, lot size, and proximity to major streets or amenities. Buyers and renters are encouraged to monitor recent local listings, work with a knowledgeable South Bay real estate professional, and compare neighborhoods to identify the best match for their budget.

Best Neighborhoods In Lawndale CA

Although Lawndale, California is relatively small in geographic area, it includes several distinct sections that appeal to different types of residents. When evaluating the best neighborhoods in Lawndale, CA, buyers and renters should consider factors such as school zoning, walkability, nearby parks, and access to freeways or transit.

Some notable residential areas and characteristics include:

Neighborhood / Area	Key Features
South Lawndale	Primarily residential streets, close to Hawthorne and Redondo Beach; convenient access to major roads and everyday shopping.
North Lawndale	Near El Camino College and major employment centers; mix of single-family homes and multifamily buildings.
Central Lawndale	Easy access to Lawndale, CA city services, schools, and parks; walkable to local shops and restaurants along key corridors.
Aviation / Rosecrans Corridor	Close to freeways and public transportation; popular with commuters working in the broader South Bay and LAX area.

Because Lawndale, CA is situated between the 405 freeway and major east–west arteries, many residents enjoy quick routes to Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, and other coastal destinations. Prospective residents should visit neighborhoods at different times of day to evaluate traffic, noise, and parking, ensuring that their chosen area matches their expectations for daily living.

Schools And Education In Lawndale CA

The school system in Lawndale, California is served by a combination of local and neighboring districts. Families moving to Lawndale, CA often pay close attention to school boundaries, available programs, and the overall learning environment.

Key educational options in and around Lawndale include:

School / District	Type	Notable Details
Lawndale Elementary School District	Public (K–8)	Serves most elementary and middle school students in Lawndale, CA, with neighborhood-based campuses and various enrichment programs.
Centinela Valley Union High School District	Public (9–12)	Provides high school education for Lawndale residents; includes Lawndale High School and nearby campuses.
Lawndale High School	Public High School	Comprehensive high school offering athletics, arts, and college preparatory coursework to students from Lawndale, CA and surrounding areas.
Local Charter & Magnet Options	Public / Charter	Select families pursue specialized programs or charter schools within a broader radius of the South Bay.
Private & Parochial Schools	Private	Several private and faith-based schools operate in nearby cities, providing additional choices for Lawndale residents.
El Camino College (Nearby Torrance)	Community College	Popular with recent graduates and working adults from Lawndale, CA, offering transfer, vocational, and continuing education programs.

Parents considering a move to Lawndale, CA are encouraged to research up-to-date school performance data, visit campuses when possible, and review specialized offerings such as language immersion, STEM programs, or arts-focused curricula. Understanding school zoning is also essential when evaluating neighborhoods and home values within the city.

Living In Lawndale CA Balancing Salary Housing And Lifestyle

Choosing to live in Lawndale, California involves weighing strong regional salary potential against a relatively high cost of living. For many, the city’s central location, access to major employment centers, and proximity to the coast justify higher housing expenses. Others may be drawn to Lawndale, CA as a more attainable alternative to neighboring South Bay communities with even steeper home prices.

By carefully reviewing average salaries, cost of living, home values, rents, neighborhoods, and schools in Lawndale, CA, prospective residents can make more informed decisions about where to live and how to budget. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, a renter seeking convenient access to work, or a family prioritizing educational opportunities, taking the time to understand local market conditions will help you determine whether Lawndale, CA aligns with your long-term financial and lifestyle goals.