Living In Arcadia CA Overview

Arcadia, CA is a desirable suburban community in the San Gabriel Valley, known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, proximity to Los Angeles, and highly ranked schools. As more professionals and families consider relocating here, two of the most important questions are: **What salary do you need to live comfortably in Arcadia, CA, and how does the cost of living compare to nearby cities?** This guide explores average salaries, overall expenses, housing costs, top neighborhoods, and schools in Arcadia, California, to help you make an informed decision.

Average Salary In Arcadia CA

The local job market in Arcadia, CA is shaped by healthcare, education, retail, hospitality, and professional services, along with commuting opportunities to nearby employment hubs like Pasadena, Glendale, and Downtown Los Angeles. While exact earnings vary by profession, **salaries in Arcadia generally trend slightly above national averages**, reflecting the higher cost of living in Southern California.

Below is an illustrative overview of approximate average annual salaries by occupation category in Arcadia, CA and the surrounding area:

When planning a move to Arcadia, CA, it is helpful to note that **a household income in the range of $120,000–$180,000 is often considered comfortable for homeowners**, depending on lifestyle and debt levels. Renters may find more flexibility, but should still budget carefully due to relatively high housing and transportation costs.

Cost Of Living In Arcadia CA

The cost of living in Arcadia, CA is **significantly higher than the national average**, largely because of housing prices and the overall cost of goods and services in Los Angeles County. Everyday expenses such as groceries, dining, and transportation typically align with or slightly exceed other nearby cities in the San Gabriel Valley.

Here is a sample comparison chart of typical monthly living costs for a single adult in Arcadia, CA (excluding income taxes):

These ranges will vary based on lifestyle, family size, and commuting distance. **Residents who commute to Los Angeles or Pasadena may see higher transportation costs**, while those who work locally in Arcadia can benefit from shorter drive times and less fuel usage.

Average Home Values And Rents In Arcadia CA

Housing is the single largest component of the cost of living in Arcadia, CA. The city is known for its well-maintained neighborhoods, larger lot sizes in many areas, and proximity to amenities such as the Santa Anita Park, Westfield Santa Anita Mall, and the Los Angeles County Arboretum.

Because of these advantages and strong local schools, **Arcadia’s home values tend to run higher than many other San Gabriel Valley cities**. While market conditions change over time, the following table provides a general snapshot of average home values and rents:

Because of the competitive nature of the Arcadia, CA housing market, **prospective buyers should be prepared for multiple-offer situations** and should work closely with a local real estate professional. Renters benefit from a variety of apartment communities and privately owned rentals, though availability can fluctuate.

Best Neighborhoods In Arcadia CA

Choosing the right neighborhood in Arcadia, CA can have a direct impact on housing costs, commute time, and access to parks and schools. Fortunately, Arcadia offers a mix of quiet residential pockets, upscale estates, and more modest areas near commercial hubs.

Some of the best-known neighborhoods in Arcadia, CA include:

When exploring neighborhoods in Arcadia, CA, it is helpful to visit at different times of the day, assess commute routes, and research specific school boundaries, as these factors can influence home values and overall satisfaction with your new community.

Schools In Arcadia CA

One of the primary reasons families move to Arcadia, CA is the city’s **highly regarded public school system**. Arcadia Unified School District (AUSD) consistently ranks among the top districts in California, which contributes to strong demand for housing within city limits.

The district includes multiple elementary schools, three middle schools, and Arcadia High School, which is particularly well known for its academic performance, extracurricular programs, and college preparation. In addition, there are several private and parochial schools in and near Arcadia, offering families a range of educational options.

Below is an example overview of schools in Arcadia, CA:

Because **school quality in Arcadia, CA is a major driver of home demand**, families interested in moving here should verify school attendance boundaries and admission policies, as these can change over time.

Is Arcadia CA Right For You

Arcadia, CA blends suburban comfort, strong schools, and convenient access to greater Los Angeles, making it a compelling choice for professionals and families. However, the **higher cost of living, especially for housing, means that careful financial planning is essential**. By understanding average salaries in Arcadia, evaluating monthly expenses, and exploring neighborhoods and schools, you can determine whether Arcadia aligns with your lifestyle and long-term goals.

If you are considering relocating, it can be helpful to consult with local real estate agents, financial advisors, and school district resources to get the most current data on home prices, rental options, and educational offerings. With the right preparation, living in Arcadia, CA can offer an excellent quality of life in one of Southern California’s most sought-after communities.