Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in North Hills, CA

Last Updated: October 1, 2025By Tags:
North Hills, CA

Salary And Cost Of Living In North Hills CA

Located in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, North Hills, CA offers a relatively affordable entry point to Los Angeles living while still providing access to major employment centers, freeways, and amenities. Understanding the salary expectations and cost of living in North Hills, California is essential for anyone considering moving to the area, changing jobs, or investing in local real estate. The following sections break down average salaries, housing costs, day‑to‑day expenses, and neighborhood options to help you make an informed decision.

Average Salary In North Hills CA

Because North Hills is a neighborhood within Los Angeles, salary data is often grouped with the broader San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles metro figures. However, local estimates and employer data provide a reasonable snapshot of average income levels in North Hills, CA.

Overall, many residents work in healthcare, education, retail, logistics, construction, and service industries. Professional and technical roles are also common, especially for those who commute to nearby employment hubs such as Van Nuys, Sherman Oaks, and Downtown Los Angeles.

Metric Estimated Amount (Annual)
Estimated Median Household Income – North Hills, CA $60,000 – $70,000
Estimated Per Capita Income $25,000 – $30,000
Typical Range For Full‑Time Salaries $40,000 – $85,000
Professional / Technical Roles (Mid‑Career) $75,000 – $110,000

These salary ranges mean that earning potential in North Hills, CA can support a modest to comfortable lifestyle, depending on household size, debt, and housing choices. Those with higher incomes may find North Hills comparatively affordable versus trendier Los Angeles neighborhoods, while lower‑income households may still feel pressure from rising rents and housing prices.

Cost Of Living In North Hills CA

The cost of living in North Hills, CA is generally lower than in many Westside and coastal communities but still above the national average. Residents pay Los Angeles–level prices for housing, transportation, and utilities, though some categories are more manageable than others.

Expense Category Description – North Hills, CA
Housing Largest monthly expense; rents and home prices are lower than many LA areas but still high relative to national averages.
Utilities Electricity and gas can be moderate to high, especially in summer months; water and trash are typical for the region.
Transportation Car ownership is common; costs include insurance, fuel, and parking. Access to freeways (I‑405, I‑5) is convenient but traffic can be heavy.
Groceries Supermarkets, discount grocers, and local markets offer competitive pricing, slightly above national averages.
Healthcare Costs are in line with the broader Los Angeles region, with several clinics and hospitals within a short drive.
Entertainment & Dining Casual dining and local eateries are more affordable than in high‑end LA neighborhoods, though prices remain city‑level.

When combined, these factors place the overall cost of living in North Hills, California at moderately high, but still attractive compared with many surrounding communities. Budget‑conscious residents can often find savings in housing and groceries while still enjoying the amenities of the San Fernando Valley.

Average Home Values And Rents In North Hills CA

For many people evaluating North Hills, CA cost of living, housing is the main deciding factor. Home prices have risen over the last decade as more buyers seek relatively affordable properties within Los Angeles city limits. At the same time, rents have trended upward as demand for Valley apartments has increased.

Housing Metric – North Hills, CA Estimated Value
Median Single‑Family Home Value $750,000 – $850,000
Typical Townhome / Condo Value $550,000 – $700,000
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 $3,000 – $3,800 per month

While exact numbers fluctuate with the market, North Hills, CA home values are typically lower than comparable homes in Sherman Oaks, Encino, or Studio City, making the neighborhood appealing for first‑time buyers and investors. Renters benefit from a variety of apartment complexes and single‑family homes for lease, though rising rates mean that budgeting remains critical.

Best Neighborhoods In North Hills CA

Within the community, several pockets stand out for their residential character, proximity to amenities, and overall value. When exploring the best neighborhoods in North Hills, California, consider factors such as commute times, school zoning, and housing types.

Neighborhood Area – North Hills, CA Key Features
North Hills West Primarily single‑family homes, tree‑lined residential streets, and close proximity to schools. Appeals to families and long‑term residents.
North Hills East Mix of apartments, townhomes, and single‑family residences with more density and convenient access to major roads and transit.
Sepulveda Boulevard Corridor Central commercial strip with shopping, restaurants, and services, surrounded by residential pockets within walking or short driving distance.
Near Nordhoff Street Balanced mix of residential and commercial properties, convenient for commuters and those seeking quick access to daily necessities.

When evaluating the top areas to live in North Hills, CA, it is helpful to drive through at different times of day, check local crime statistics, and speak with residents and real estate professionals. Each micro‑neighborhood offers a slightly different feel, from quieter family blocks to more urban, apartment‑heavy corridors.

Schools And Education In North Hills CA

For families and those planning for the future, the quality of schools in North Hills, CA is an important part of the overall cost‑of‑living equation. North Hills is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), with several public elementary, middle, and high schools nearby, as well as charter and private options.

School / Education Option – North Hills, CA Level Notable Features
Local Public Elementary Schools Elementary Neighborhood‑based campuses serving K–5 students with standard LAUSD curriculum and support services.
Local Middle Schools Middle Offer academic, athletic, and extracurricular programs; often draw students from multiple North Hills neighborhoods.
Nearby High Schools High Provide college‑prep courses, career pathways, and activities; students may attend schools in adjacent communities.
Charter & Magnet Programs Various Options for specialized themes such as STEM, arts, or college‑prep, subject to application and availability.
Nearby Community Colleges & CSUN Post‑Secondary Easy access to Los Angeles Valley College and California State University, Northridge (CSUN) for higher education.

Because school performance can vary by campus, families considering North Hills, CA real estate should review current school ratings, tour campuses when possible, and confirm attendance boundaries with the district. Strong educational options can enhance long‑term property value and overall quality of life.

Final Thoughts On Salary And Cost Of Living In North Hills CA

In summary, North Hills, California delivers a blend of relative affordability and metro‑level opportunity. Average salaries in North Hills, CA, typically range from moderate to solid, especially for those in professional and technical roles, and can support comfortable living when paired with thoughtful budgeting.

The cost of living in North Hills, CA is driven primarily by housing, with home values and rents lower than many other parts of Los Angeles but still significantly above national benchmarks. For buyers and renters willing to trade a bit of distance from coastal areas for better value, North Hills stands out as a practical choice in the San Fernando Valley.

By carefully comparing salaries, housing prices, neighborhood characteristics, and school options, prospective residents can determine whether North Hills, CA aligns with their financial goals and lifestyle preferences. With its central Valley location, diverse housing stock, and access to education and employment, North Hills continues to attract individuals and families looking for a balanced, accessible place to call home in the greater Los Angeles area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in North Hills, CA

What is the overall cost of living like in North Hills, CA?

The cost of living in North Hills is generally higher than the national average, primarily due to housing costs, as it is part of the greater Los Angeles area. Rental prices range from modest apartments to higher-end single-family homes, with prices increasing closer to major transit routes and commercial centers. Everyday expenses such as groceries, transportation, and utilities are comparable to other neighborhoods in the San Fernando Valley. Residents often find that sharing housing, using public transit, and planning commutes strategically can help manage overall living expenses.

What types of housing options are available in North Hills?

North Hills offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, small apartment buildings, townhomes, and multi-unit complexes. Many of the single-family homes were built in the mid-20th century and feature larger lots compared to more urban parts of Los Angeles. There are also numerous rental communities, some with gated access, on-site parking, and shared amenities. Prospective residents can find both long-term rental opportunities and homes for purchase, appealing to families, working professionals, and multi-generational households looking for relative affordability within the San Fernando Valley.

How is the commute and public transportation in North Hills?

North Hills is well-connected by major freeways, including the I-405 and the I-5, which provide access to other parts of the San Fernando Valley and the greater Los Angeles region. However, traffic congestion during peak hours can be significant, so residents often plan their commutes carefully or adjust work hours when possible. Public transportation is available via Metro bus lines that run along major corridors such as Nordhoff Street and Sepulveda Boulevard, connecting to nearby transit hubs and rail lines. Many residents use a combination of driving, carpooling, and bus service to navigate daily commutes and access employment centers in surrounding cities.

What amenities and services are available to residents of North Hills?

Residents of North Hills have access to a wide range of amenities, including neighborhood shopping centers, grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants that reflect the area’s diverse community. Several parks and recreational spaces are located within and around the neighborhood, offering sports fields, playgrounds, and walking areas. Medical offices, dental clinics, and urgent care facilities are available locally, while major hospitals are within a short drive elsewhere in the San Fernando Valley. In addition, residents can access community centers, libraries, and fitness facilities for educational, cultural, and recreational programs throughout the year.

Is North Hills a good place for families and long-term residents?

North Hills is considered a practical choice for families and long-term residents who want to remain within the Los Angeles area while seeking relatively more space and neighborhood-oriented living. The community features a variety of public and private schools within a short driving distance, as well as childcare options and after-school programs. The neighborhood’s residential streets, local parks, and nearby community resources support a family-friendly environment. While experiences can vary by specific block or complex, many residents appreciate the diversity, community ties, and the ability to access both suburban-style comforts and urban amenities throughout the San Fernando Valley.

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