Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Agua Dulce, CA

Last Updated: December 3, 2025By Tags:

Salary And Cost Of Living In Agua Dulce CA

Located in the hills of northern Los Angeles County, Agua Dulce, CA offers a distinctive blend of rural charm and proximity to major employment centers. For professionals and families considering a move, understanding the salary levels, cost of living, housing market, neighborhoods, and schools in Agua Dulce is essential. The community is known for its larger lots, equestrian properties, and scenic vistas, all of which shape both income expectations and daily expenses. Below, we explore the key financial and lifestyle factors that define living in Agua Dulce, California.

Average Salary In Agua Dulce CA

While Agua Dulce itself is a smaller, primarily residential community, many residents commute to nearby cities such as Santa Clarita, Palmdale, and the greater Los Angeles area. As a result, average salaries in Agua Dulce, CA tend to reflect regional income levels in northern Los Angeles County rather than strictly local employment.

The table below provides an illustrative snapshot of approximate salary ranges for common occupations in and around Agua Dulce. These numbers are estimated based on regional data and can vary depending on experience, employer, and specific industry.

Occupation (Agua Dulce CA Area) Estimated Average Annual Salary
Registered Nurse $95,000 – $115,000
Public School Teacher $75,000 – $95,000
Software Engineer $115,000 – $145,000
Construction Supervisor $80,000 – $105,000
Administrative Assistant $45,000 – $60,000
Retail / Service Worker $35,000 – $45,000

Because Agua Dulce attracts many professionals who work in nearby job centers, household incomes are often above the national average. Dual-income households and business owners, especially those in entertainment, tech, aviation, and construction industries, find the area’s space and lifestyle appealing. As you assess career opportunities, it is wise to compare your potential salary to both regional norms and the specific costs of owning or renting property in Agua Dulce, CA.

Cost Of Living In Agua Dulce CA

The cost of living in Agua Dulce, CA is generally higher than the national average, driven primarily by housing, transportation, and some goods and services. However, compared with many dense urban neighborhoods in Los Angeles, Agua Dulce can offer more space and privacy for a similar or slightly higher overall cost.

The following chart-style table shows how Agua Dulce’s estimated cost of living compares to national and California averages (with 100 representing the U.S. average).

Category Agua Dulce CA (Index) California Average (Index) U.S. Average (Index = 100)
Overall Cost Of Living 135 – 145 140 100
Housing 160 – 180 190 100
Groceries 115 – 120 115 100
Utilities 105 – 110 110 100
Transportation 120 – 130 125 100
Healthcare 105 – 115 110 100

Housing and vehicle costs are the largest budget items for most Agua Dulce residents. Because the community is semi-rural, you will likely rely heavily on a car for commuting, shopping, and services. Gas, insurance, and maintenance should therefore be factored into your monthly expenses. On the plus side, the community’s quieter environment, open land, and lower density often translate into a higher perceived quality of life.

Average Home Values And Rents In Agua Dulce CA

Real estate in Agua Dulce, CA is characterized by larger parcels, ranch-style homes, and equestrian properties. It is common to see multi-acre lots and custom-built residences, which can push median home values above many other suburbs in the region. At the same time, prices in Agua Dulce can be more affordable than some of the most sought-after coastal and in-city Los Angeles neighborhoods.

Housing Metric (Agua Dulce CA) Estimated Value / Range
Median Single-Family Home Value $900,000 – $1,100,000
Typical 3–4 Bedroom Home (2+ Acres) $1,000,000 – $1,400,000
Smaller Home / Manufactured Home On Land $650,000 – $850,000
Luxury / Equestrian Estate $1,500,000 – $3,000,000+
Typical Monthly Rent (Single-Family Home) $3,200 – $4,500
High-End Rental Home / Estate $4,500 – $7,000+

Rental inventory in Agua Dulce, CA is limited, as the market is dominated by owner-occupied homes. Those who do rent often choose full single-family houses rather than apartments, which contributes to higher average rent levels. Because of this, buyers and renters should be prepared for a competitive market and may benefit from working with a local real estate professional who understands Agua Dulce’s unique property types, zoning, and well/septic considerations.

Best Neighborhoods In Agua Dulce CA

Agua Dulce is not a large city with traditional subdivisions, but rather a collection of distinct rural neighborhoods and enclaves. Each area offers slightly different terrain, access, and character, but all share the community’s hallmark features of open land and scenic views.

Neighborhood / Area In Agua Dulce CA Key Features
Downtown Agua Dulce / Agua Dulce Canyon Close to local shops, dining, and community events; mix of custom homes and ranch properties; relatively convenient access to the Sierra Highway and the 14 Freeway.
Vasquez Rocks Area Stunning natural scenery and quick access to Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park; ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking iconic rock formations and hiking trails.
Escondido Canyon Larger parcels, equestrian-friendly properties, and a very rural feel; popular among horse owners and those seeking maximum privacy and dark night skies.
Sierra Highway Corridor Somewhat easier commute access while still enjoying space and rural charm; a mix of residential and limited commercial uses.

When evaluating the best neighborhoods in Agua Dulce, CA, consider commute times, road access, and property size. Because many parcels are on private or semi-private roads, visiting at different times of day and speaking with local residents can provide useful insight. Additionally, buyers focused on equestrian use should confirm zoning, trail access, and any local restrictions on livestock.

Schools And Education In Agua Dulce CA

Families moving to Agua Dulce, CA often place a high value on educational quality and community involvement. The area is served primarily by the Acton-Agua Dulce Unified School District, which offers a more intimate, small-town school environment compared with many larger Los Angeles districts.

School / Level (Agua Dulce CA Area) Notable Characteristics
Agua Dulce Elementary School Local neighborhood elementary serving TK–5; small class sizes, strong community engagement, and a close-knit atmosphere.
High Desert School (Middle Grades) Serves middle grades for the Acton-Agua Dulce area; offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs.
Vasquez High School Comprehensive high school with athletics, arts, and college-preparatory programs; benefits from a smaller student body and individualized attention.
Nearby Charter / Private Options Families may also explore charter schools in Santa Clarita or the Antelope Valley, as well as private schools within commuting distance.

School choice is a major factor when evaluating the cost of living in Agua Dulce, CA. Many families appreciate that the district’s smaller scale can foster strong connections between teachers, students, and parents. Nonetheless, prospective residents should review current test scores, programs, and transportation options, as well as after-school activities, to ensure that each school meets their children’s specific needs.

Living In Agua Dulce CA Balancing Salary Lifestyle And Costs

Agua Dulce, California, offers a distinctive lifestyle that combines above-average regional salaries with a semi-rural, spacious setting. While the cost of living—especially housing and transportation—is higher than the national average, many residents find that the benefits of open land, equestrian amenities, and a close-knit community justify the premium. Local salaries, often buoyed by employment in nearby job hubs, can support comfortable living for households that budget carefully and plan for commuting expenses.

As you weigh a move to Agua Dulce, CA, consider how your income aligns with typical home prices, rents, and day-to-day expenses. Touring different neighborhoods, researching schools, and reviewing county and regional data will further refine your understanding of the area. With its scenic landscapes, rural character, and strategic location between Los Angeles and the high desert, Agua Dulce continues to appeal to professionals and families seeking a unique balance of earning potential, space, and quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Agua Dulce, CA

What is the general lifestyle like in Agua Dulce, CA?

Agua Dulce offers a semi-rural, small-town lifestyle with a strong sense of community and a slower pace of life compared to nearby metropolitan areas. Many properties are on larger lots or acreage, which appeals to residents who value privacy, open space, and outdoor activities. The area is known for its scenic rock formations, equestrian-friendly environment, and proximity to hiking and riding trails. Residents typically rely on personal vehicles for transportation, and daily life tends to center around home, local businesses, and community events rather than dense commercial districts.

How is the housing market and typical home style in Agua Dulce?

Housing in Agua Dulce is characterized by single-family homes, ranch-style properties, and equestrian estates, often situated on large parcels of land. Many homes include facilities for horses, workshops, or additional outbuildings. Prices reflect the combination of land, privacy, and proximity to the greater Los Angeles and Santa Clarita areas, and can be higher than some suburban tracts but lower than comparable large-lot properties closer to the urban core. Prospective buyers should be prepared for considerations common to rural living, such as private wells, septic systems, and longer distances to major shopping centers.

What are the schools and educational options like in Agua Dulce?

Agua Dulce is served primarily by public schools in nearby districts, with younger students typically attending local elementary schools and older students commuting to middle and high schools in surrounding communities such as the Santa Clarita Valley. Class sizes and school performance can vary, so families often review district ratings, test scores, and extracurricular offerings before choosing a neighborhood. In addition, some residents opt for charter schools, private schools, or homeschooling, using the broader Los Angeles region for specialized programs, advanced coursework, or arts and athletics opportunities.

What is the commute and access to nearby cities from Agua Dulce?

Agua Dulce is located in northern Los Angeles County, with access to State Route 14, making it feasible for residents to commute to Santa Clarita, the San Fernando Valley, and parts of the greater Los Angeles area. Commute times vary significantly depending on traffic, but residents should anticipate a drive for most employment, shopping, and specialized services. Public transportation is limited, so most households rely on one or more personal vehicles. The trade-off for a longer commute is a quieter residential environment and more open space than is typically available in denser suburban or urban neighborhoods.

What amenities, services, and recreational activities are available in Agua Dulce?

Agua Dulce has a small but growing selection of local businesses, including restaurants, markets, and service providers that cater to day-to-day needs, while larger retail centers and medical facilities are typically found in nearby Santa Clarita and other surrounding cities. Recreationally, the area is known for Vasquez Rocks Natural Area, which offers hiking, photography, and outdoor exploration. The community is also popular with horse owners and outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for riding, biking, and nature walks. Local events and community groups provide additional social and recreational outlets, reinforcing the close-knit, small-town atmosphere.

Mail Icon

news via inbox

Sign up to get local tips delivered to your inbox.

you might also like