Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Lomita, CA
Lomita, CA


Lomita CA Salary And Cost Of Living Overview
Lomita, CA is a small but vibrant city in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County. For professionals, families, and retirees considering a move, understanding the salary ranges, cost of living, housing prices, and school quality in Lomita, CA is essential. Nestled between Torrance and the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Lomita offers a relatively affordable entry point into the coastal South Bay lifestyle, while still providing access to major employment hubs and amenities.
In the sections below, we will explore the average salary in Lomita, CA, how far that income can stretch given local expenses, and what to expect from the real estate market, neighborhoods, and schools. This information will help you determine whether Lomita, CA aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle preferences.
Average Salary In Lomita CA
Because Lomita is part of the broader Los Angeles metro area, salaries are influenced by regional job markets in technology, healthcare, aerospace, logistics, and professional services. While specific incomes vary by role and experience, residents often commute to nearby employment centers such as Torrance, Long Beach, and El Segundo.
Below is a general snapshot of estimated average salaries in Lomita, CA and surrounding South Bay communities, based on common job categories:
| Job Category (Lomita CA Area) | Estimated Annual Salary Range | Typical Education/Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative & Office Support | $40,000 – $60,000 | High school to associate degree |
| Retail & Hospitality | $32,000 – $45,000 | Entry level; customer service experience |
| Skilled Trades & Technicians | $50,000 – $80,000 | Technical training or certifications |
| Registered Nurses & Healthcare Professionals | $85,000 – $120,000 | Professional license; bachelor’s degree preferred |
| Business, Finance & Marketing | $70,000 – $120,000+ | Bachelor’s degree; industry experience |
| Engineering & Technology | $90,000 – $140,000+ | STEM bachelor’s or advanced degree |
Although individual results will vary, many residents report that a household income in the range of $90,000 to $130,000 provides a reasonably comfortable standard of living in Lomita, CA, particularly for renters. Homeowners, especially first-time buyers, may need higher incomes to qualify for mortgages given South Bay home prices.
Cost Of Living In Lomita CA
The cost of living in Lomita, CA is generally lower than in nearby beach cities like Manhattan Beach or Redondo Beach, but still higher than the national average. Housing has the largest impact on overall expenses, while utilities, groceries, and transportation tend to align closely with other parts of Los Angeles County.
Here is an illustrative comparison of key living cost categories in Lomita, CA compared to the national baseline (indexed at 100):
| Expense Category | Lomita CA Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost Of Living | ~145 | About 45% higher than U.S. average |
| Housing | ~190 | Driven by South Bay real estate demand |
| Groceries | ~115 | Moderately higher than national average |
| Utilities | ~110 | Electricity and water slightly elevated |
| Transportation | ~130 | Gas prices and auto insurance costs are higher |
| Healthcare | ~115 | Reflects regional medical provider rates |
Because of these factors, it is important to budget carefully when relocating to Lomita, CA. Many residents lower their costs by renting, sharing housing, or commuting using carpools and public transportation such as nearby Metro lines and bus routes. Nevertheless, those seeking a South Bay address often find that Lomita strikes a more attainable balance between quality of life and affordability than many neighboring cities.
Average Home Values And Rents In Lomita CA
Real estate in Lomita, CA is largely composed of single-family homes, townhomes, and smaller apartment buildings. The city offers a mix of mid-century properties, modest bungalows, and some newer developments, all within easy reach of shopping centers, parks, and major freeways.
Below is an overview of typical home values and rental prices in Lomita, CA compared to nearby South Bay markets:
| Area | Median Single-Family Home Value | Typical 1-Bedroom Rent (Monthly) | Typical 2-Bedroom Rent (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lomita CA | $800,000 – $900,000 | $1,900 – $2,300 | $2,400 – $3,000 |
| Torrance CA | $900,000 – $1,050,000 | $2,000 – $2,500 | $2,600 – $3,200 |
| Harbor City CA | $750,000 – $850,000 | $1,800 – $2,200 | $2,300 – $2,800 |
| Palos Verdes Peninsula CA | $1.5M – $2.2M+ | $2,400 – $3,200 | $3,000 – $4,000+ |
For renters, Lomita, CA frequently provides a more affordable alternative to the beach cities while offering similar proximity to jobs and coastal recreation. For buyers, property prices remain substantial but still lower than many neighboring South Bay communities, making Lomita an appealing choice for first-time homeowners seeking long-term equity growth.
Best Neighborhoods In Lomita CA
Lomita’s compact size means that most neighborhoods are within a short drive of schools, grocery stores, medical offices, and parks. Even so, several areas of Lomita, CA stand out for their residential appeal, walkability, and overall value.
Some of the most notable neighborhoods and residential pockets in Lomita, CA include:
| Neighborhood / Area | Key Features | Typical Housing |
|---|---|---|
| Lomita Pines Area (North Lomita) | Tree-lined streets, hilltop feel, close to Palos Verdes and Torrance | Single-family homes, some with larger lots and views |
| Central Lomita Near Narbonne Avenue | Walkable to shops, restaurants, and local services | Older single-family homes, small apartment buildings, cottages |
| East Lomita Near Harbor City Border | Convenient freeway access and proximity to industrial/port jobs | Mix of single-family homes, duplexes, and rentals |
| Areas Around Lomita Park | Easy park access, family-friendly atmosphere, community events | Family homes, townhomes, and some condos |
As you compare neighborhoods in Lomita, CA, consider your priorities: commuting time, walkability, school boundaries, and proximity to coastal amenities. Working with a local South Bay real estate professional familiar with Lomita can help you pinpoint the right pocket of the city for your lifestyle and budget.
Schools And Education In Lomita CA
Families evaluating the cost of living and salary in Lomita, CA often place considerable weight on school quality. Lomita is primarily served by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and the Los Angeles Harbor College area for higher education, while many private and charter options are located in nearby communities such as Torrance and the Palos Verdes Peninsula.
Here is an overview of school options that serve Lomita, CA residents:
| School Type | Examples Serving Lomita CA | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Public Elementary Schools | Local LAUSD schools in and around Lomita | Neighborhood-based enrollment; programs vary by campus |
| Public Middle & High Schools | Regional LAUSD middle and high schools | Variety of academic and extracurricular offerings; check local boundaries |
| Charter Schools | Charter options in the broader South Bay and Harbor Area | Specialized programs; may have application or lottery systems |
| Private & Parochial Schools | Schools in nearby Torrance and Palos Verdes | Smaller class sizes; tuition-based; diverse educational philosophies |
| Colleges & Universities | Los Angeles Harbor College, CSUDH, El Camino College | Community college and university options within a short drive |
Because school assignments and performance ratings can change, it is wise to research current school data, test scores, and parent reviews when planning a move to Lomita, CA. Many families also consider after-school programs, sports leagues, and enrichment activities available throughout the South Bay area.
Living In Lomita CA Is It Right For You
Lomita, CA offers a compelling mix of moderate South Bay housing costs, access to strong regional job markets, and a small-town feel within the larger Los Angeles metro area. While the cost of living is above the national average—especially for housing—salaries in many professional fields help offset these expenses, and the city’s relative affordability within the South Bay makes it attractive to both renters and buyers.
When weighing a move, consider your expected salary in Lomita, CA, your target housing budget, and your priorities regarding neighborhoods and schools. By aligning these factors carefully, you can determine whether Lomita is the right fit for your long-term financial and lifestyle goals.
Ultimately, for those seeking a centrally located South Bay community with convenient access to beaches, freeways, and employment centers, Lomita, CA delivers a strong value proposition and a welcoming residential environment.


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