Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in West Covina, CA

Last Updated: November 28, 2025By Tags:
West Covina, CA

Living In West Covina CA An Overview

Located in the eastern San Gabriel Valley, West Covina, CA offers a suburban lifestyle with convenient access to downtown Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. As more professionals and families consider relocating to this community, understanding the salary levels, cost of living, housing prices, neighborhoods, and schools in West Covina, CA becomes essential for informed decision-making. This guide provides a comprehensive look at what it truly costs to live in West Covina and what you can expect to earn while living and working in the area.

Average Salary In West Covina CA

When evaluating a move to West Covina, CA, it is important to start with local income expectations. Salaries vary by industry, experience level, and education, but you can use averages to get a general sense of earning potential.

Estimated Average Annual Salary In West Covina, CA: Approximately $55,000 – $70,000 per year for full-time workers, with many dual-income households earning more.

Many residents commute to nearby employment hubs such as Los Angeles, Pasadena, and the City of Industry, which can increase earning potential. Common sectors include healthcare, education, retail, logistics, and professional services. Entry-level roles may start in the low $40,000s, while experienced professionals and managers may earn well above $80,000 annually.

Below is a general overview of typical salary ranges in West Covina, CA by broad occupation category:

Occupation Category (West Covina, CA) Typical Salary Range (Annual)
Retail & Customer Service $35,000 – $48,000
Administrative & Office Support $40,000 – $55,000
Skilled Trades & Technicians $45,000 – $65,000
Education & Social Services $50,000 – $75,000
Healthcare Professionals $60,000 – $100,000+
Business, Finance & Management $65,000 – $110,000+
Technology & Engineering $75,000 – $130,000+

Because West Covina, CA is within commuting distance of larger economic centers, residents often combine the relatively more affordable suburban lifestyle with salaries tied to the broader Los Angeles job market.

Cost Of Living In West Covina CA

The cost of living in West Covina, CA is generally higher than the national average but somewhat more manageable than many neighborhoods in central Los Angeles or coastal cities. Housing is the largest expense, but transportation, groceries, and healthcare also contribute significantly to overall costs.

Here is a simplified comparison of the cost of living index for West Covina, CA relative to the U.S. average (100 = U.S. average):

Cost Category West Covina, CA Index Notes
Overall Cost Of Living 135 – 145 Higher than national average, typical for Southern California suburbs
Housing 170 – 190 Primary driver of higher expenses in West Covina, CA
Groceries 110 – 115 Slightly above average; large chain stores help control costs
Transportation 125 – 135 Car ownership, fuel costs, and commuting times add up
Healthcare 105 – 115 Moderately above average, with access to regional medical centers
Utilities 95 – 105 Generally close to national averages, with mild climate helping costs

Budget-conscious residents in West Covina, CA often reduce expenses by carpooling, choosing energy-efficient housing, and shopping at discount retailers and local markets. Overall, while not inexpensive, West Covina can represent a reasonable balance of cost and quality of life compared with other Southern California cities.

Average Home Values And Rents In West Covina CA

Housing is typically the most important financial consideration for anyone relocating. In West Covina, CA, home prices reflect the competitive Southern California real estate market, yet they are usually lower than many parts of Los Angeles County closer to the coast or downtown LA.

Estimated Housing Overview For West Covina, CA:

Housing Type (West Covina, CA) Typical Price/Monthly Cost
Median Single-Family Home Value $750,000 – $850,000
Entry-Level Condos/Townhomes $500,000 – $650,000
Luxury Or Newer Homes $900,000 – $1,200,000+
Average 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent $1,900 – $2,300 per month
Average 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent $2,300 – $2,800 per month
Average 3-Bedroom Home Rental $2,900 – $3,600 per month

To visualize how housing costs in West Covina, CA compare to neighboring areas in the San Gabriel Valley, consider the chart below:

Approximate Median Home Values Comparison
City Approx. Median Home Value
West Covina, CA $800,000
Covina, CA $750,000
Walnut, CA $1,000,000
Baldwin Park, CA $650,000
Glendora, CA $900,000

As this comparison suggests, West Covina, CA offers mid-range pricing in the region, with a mix of established neighborhoods, newer developments, and rental options that appeal to different budgets.

Best Neighborhoods In West Covina CA

Another key part of evaluating the cost of living is understanding where you might want to live. West Covina, CA neighborhoods each have their own character, price points, and amenities. While “best” can be subjective, several areas are consistently popular among residents.

Notable neighborhoods and residential areas in West Covina, CA include:

Neighborhood / Area Key Features
South Hills Area Upscale homes, larger lots, hillside views, proximity to golf courses; higher price point, quiet residential feel.
Shadow Oak / Woodside Areas Primarily residential, family-oriented, access to parks and schools, mix of mid-range single-family homes.
West Covina Hills Views of the San Gabriel Valley, access to hiking and outdoor recreation, more spacious properties.
Area Around Plaza West Covina Convenient shopping, dining, and freeway access; popular with renters and commuters.
East West Covina Bordering Covina Blend of older and newer homes, close to Covina’s downtown, various price points.

Families and professionals moving to West Covina, CA often prioritize proximity to schools, commute routes (I-10 and I-605), and local parks. Touring neighborhoods at different times of day can help you understand traffic patterns, noise levels, and community activity before you commit to buying or renting.

Schools And Education In West Covina CA

Education is a major factor for many who are evaluating the cost of living in West Covina, CA. The city is primarily served by the West Covina Unified School District (WCUSD) and parts by surrounding districts such as Covina-Valley Unified. There are also several private and parochial schools in and around the city.

Below is a general overview of educational options in West Covina, CA (not an exhaustive list and not ranked):

School Type Examples In/Serving West Covina, CA Notes
Public Elementary Schools Coronado, Orangewood, Merlinda (and others) Neighborhood-based schools; programs vary by campus.
Public Middle Schools Hollencrest Middle, Edgewood Middle Feeder schools to local high schools; offer extracurricular activities and athletics.
Public High Schools West Covina High School, Edgewood High School, South Hills High (nearby) College-prep, career pathways, and athletic programs.
Private & Parochial Schools Various Christian, Catholic, and independent schools Tuition-based; may offer smaller class sizes or specialized curricula.
Nearby Colleges & Universities Mt. San Antonio College, Cal Poly Pomona, Azusa Pacific University Accessible within a reasonable drive; support higher education and workforce development.

Families researching schools in West Covina, CA should review current ratings, test scores, and program offerings, as school performance and available resources can change over time. Visiting campuses and attending local school district meetings can also provide additional insight into the educational environment.

Is West Covina CA Right For You

West Covina, CA combines the conveniences of a well-developed suburban city with access to the broader Los Angeles region. While home prices and the overall cost of living are above national averages, they are relatively competitive within Southern California, particularly when balanced against regional salary opportunities.

With a diverse housing stock, solid salary potential, growing retail and service sectors, and access to schools and higher education, West Covina, CA appeals to young professionals, families, and long-term residents who value suburban comfort and metropolitan access. By carefully comparing average salaries, housing costs, and neighborhood options, you can determine whether building your life in West Covina, CA aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in West Covina, CA

What is West Covina known for as a place to live?

West Covina is known for its suburban residential neighborhoods, strong retail and commercial centers, and convenient location in the eastern San Gabriel Valley. Residents appreciate the city’s proximity to major freeways, access to regional shopping such as Plaza West Covina, and a variety of parks and community amenities. It is considered a family-friendly community with a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments, offering a suburban lifestyle within driving distance of downtown Los Angeles, Orange County, and Inland Empire job centers.

How is the cost of living and housing market in West Covina?

The cost of living in West Covina is higher than the national average but generally more moderate than some coastal areas of Los Angeles County. Housing costs reflect Southern California’s competitive market, with home prices and rents that can be significant for new buyers and renters, yet still sometimes more attainable than in closer-in LA neighborhoods. The city offers a range of options, from older established homes and mid-century properties to newer developments, with neighborhoods that vary in price based on school zones, proximity to amenities, and views. Prospective residents should budget carefully for housing, transportation, and utilities, which are key drivers of overall living expenses.

What are the schools and educational options like in West Covina?

West Covina is served primarily by West Covina Unified School District and portions of neighboring districts, offering public elementary, middle, and high schools with varying performance levels. Families often review school ratings, test scores, and special programs when choosing a neighborhood, as some schools are more highly regarded than others. In addition to public schools, there are several private and parochial school options, as well as nearby community colleges and universities within commuting distance, including institutions in the broader San Gabriel Valley and greater Los Angeles area. Many residents value the range of extracurricular activities, athletics, and advanced placement or honors courses available at local schools.

What is the lifestyle and community atmosphere in West Covina?

West Covina offers a suburban lifestyle with a diverse and active community. Residents enjoy access to shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues, as well as city-sponsored events and recreational programs. The city has multiple parks, sports fields, and walking trails that support outdoor activities and family gatherings. The community is culturally diverse, reflected in local businesses, dining options, and community events, which contributes to a welcoming atmosphere for people from various backgrounds. Many residents value the balance of neighborhood quiet with the convenience of nearby urban amenities.

How are transportation and commuting options in West Covina?

Transportation in West Covina is largely car-oriented, with major freeways such as the I-10 providing access to downtown Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Commute times can be significant during peak hours, so residents often plan schedules around traffic patterns. Public transit is available through local and regional bus services, but routes and frequency may be less convenient than in more urbanized parts of Los Angeles County, making a personal vehicle beneficial for most households. Many residents also rely on nearby Metrolink stations in surrounding cities for rail access to employment centers. Biking and walking are feasible within certain neighborhoods and around commercial areas, but the overall infrastructure is primarily designed for drivers.

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