Salary And Cost Of Living In Commerce CA

Located just southeast of downtown Los Angeles, Commerce, CA is a small but economically active city known for its industrial base, outlet shopping, and convenient freeway access. For professionals, families, and students considering a move, understanding the salary levels, cost of living, housing market, neighborhoods, and schools in Commerce, California is essential for making an informed decision. The following guide provides a comprehensive overview of what you can expect when living and working in Commerce.

Average Salary In Commerce CA

Because Commerce is largely an industrial and commercial hub, local earnings vary widely by sector, from warehouse and logistics to office and retail. In general, salaries are influenced heavily by proximity to Los Angeles and the broader regional job market.

While figures can change year to year, the following table presents a reasonable snapshot of average salary estimates in Commerce, CA across common job categories:

Job Category	Estimated Average Annual Salary (Commerce, CA)	Notes
Warehouse & Logistics Workers	$40,000 – $52,000	Includes pickers, packers, forklift operators, and shipping staff.
Administrative & Office Support	$45,000 – $58,000	Reception, clerical, and back-office roles supporting local businesses.
Retail & Customer Service	$32,000 – $40,000	Positions at the Citadel Outlets and local shops.
Skilled Trades & Technicians	$55,000 – $70,000	Mechanics, maintenance, and industrial technicians.
Mid-Level Professionals	$65,000 – $85,000	Supervisors, logistics managers, HR, accounting, and analysts.
Senior & Specialized Roles	$90,000 – $120,000+	Directors, operations managers, engineers, and experienced specialists.

Overall, the average individual income in Commerce, CA tends to fall in the mid to upper $40,000s, while household incomes are often considerably higher due to multiple earners. When compared to nearby Los Angeles neighborhoods, pay in Commerce can be competitive for logistics, manufacturing, and operations-related careers, especially when factoring in commute time savings.

Cost Of Living In Commerce CA

The cost of living in Commerce, California is shaped by its location within Los Angeles County. Housing remains the largest expense, while transportation and groceries also contribute significantly. Although Commerce is not as expensive as some Westside LA neighborhoods, it is still notably higher than the national average.

The table below provides an illustrative comparison of major cost categories:

Expense Category	Relative Cost (US = 100)	Commerce, CA Notes
Housing	150 – 170	Significantly above national average, similar to many LA County suburbs.
Utilities	100 – 110	Close to national average; mild climate helps moderate utility bills.
Groceries	110 – 120	Brand-name and specialty items can be higher, but discount options exist.
Transportation	120 – 130	Car ownership, insurance, and fuel costs are elevated, and traffic is common.
Healthcare	105 – 115	Varies by plan, but generally slightly above the national average.
Overall Cost Of Living	120 – 130	Moderately high cost of living typical of the Los Angeles metro area.

When evaluating the cost of living in Commerce, CA, it is important to factor in savings on commute time and transportation if you work locally. Many residents choose Commerce because it offers quicker access to regional employment centers, which can translate into improved work-life balance.

Average Home Values And Rents In Commerce CA

Housing is a key consideration for anyone planning to relocate. The average home values and rents in Commerce, California reflect a strong Southern California real estate market, with prices supported by limited inventory and demand driven by proximity to Los Angeles.

Below is a summary of typical housing costs in Commerce, CA:

Housing Type	Typical Price / Rent Range	Comments
Single-Family Home (Median Value)	$650,000 – $750,000	Entry-level to mid-range homes in established residential areas.
Condo / Townhome	$450,000 – $600,000	Appealing for first-time buyers and downsizing households.
1-Bedroom Apartment Rent	$1,800 – $2,200 per month	Varies by building age, amenities, and proximity to major arteries.
2-Bedroom Apartment Rent	$2,200 – $2,800 per month	Popular with couples and small families seeking affordability.
3-Bedroom Home Rent	$2,800 – $3,400 per month	Stronger competition, especially for well-kept single-family homes.

These values can fluctuate with market conditions, but they offer a realistic perspective on what you might pay. For prospective homebuyers, the city’s central location can be a long-term asset, while renters often appreciate having access to both Commerce and surrounding Eastside communities. As you assess the housing cost in Commerce, CA, it is wise to compare long-term ownership costs with renting, particularly when interest rates shift.

Best Neighborhoods In Commerce CA

Commerce is smaller than many neighboring cities, and its land use leans heavily toward industrial and commercial zoning. Even so, there are distinct residential pockets and neighborhoods in Commerce, California that stand out for different reasons, from quieter streets to convenient access to parks and shopping.

Here is a concise overview of several well-known residential areas and adjacent communities that residents often consider when looking for homes near Commerce:

Neighborhood / Area	Key Characteristics	Why It Appeals To Residents
Central Commerce Residential Tracts	Smaller, older single-family homes on established streets.	Walkable to local parks, schools, and community centers; strong sense of community.
Bandini / Bristow Area	Mixed residential and light industrial; close to major roadways.	Convenient commuting location and relatively accessible pricing.
Close-In East Los Angeles (Adjacent)	Border neighborhoods offering additional housing options.	More choices for renters and buyers who still want quick access to Commerce.
Montebello & Bell Gardens (Nearby)	Suburban-style neighborhoods with a variety of housing types.	Popular with families seeking more amenities and schooling choices nearby.

When evaluating the best neighborhoods in and around Commerce, CA, consider noise levels from nearby freeways, proximity to major employment centers, and local amenities like parks and shopping centers. Because Commerce is compact, most residential areas provide quick access to city services, recreational facilities, and major transportation routes.

Schools In Commerce CA

Families considering relocation often focus on the quality of schools in Commerce, California. The city is primarily served by nearby school districts that operate elementary, middle, and high schools for Commerce residents. While specific performance metrics change over time, Commerce-area schools generally emphasize community involvement, bilingual programs, and college readiness.

The following table summarizes the types of schools commonly available to residents of Commerce, CA and neighboring communities:

School Level	Typical Options For Commerce, CA Residents	Key Features
Elementary Schools	Neighborhood-based public schools and some charter options.	Foundational literacy and math programs, after-school activities, and community events.
Middle Schools	Public middle schools in Commerce and nearby cities.	Focus on academic preparation, early career exploration, and extracurricular involvement.
High Schools	Comprehensive high schools in surrounding districts.	College prep classes, vocational pathways, athletics, and arts programs.
Private & Charter Schools	Faith-based and independent schools in neighboring communities.	Smaller class sizes, specialized curricula, and alternative learning models.
Colleges & Adult Education	Community colleges and training centers within a short drive.	Workforce training, transfer programs, ESL courses, and professional development.

Because school ratings and offerings can shift, families planning a move to Commerce should review current district data, visit campuses, and speak with other parents. Still, the schools in Commerce, CA and nearby districts collectively provide a full educational pathway from kindergarten through college preparation and career training.

Balancing Salary And Cost Of Living In Commerce CA

All things considered, Commerce, California offers a strategic balance between earnings potential and living expenses. Many residents benefit from local jobs in logistics, warehousing, and management while enjoying relatively convenient access to the broader Los Angeles metropolitan area. Housing and overall costs run higher than the national average, but they are in line with much of Los Angeles County.

When planning a move or career shift, it is wise to compare your expected salary with current rent or mortgage costs, transportation expenses, and educational needs. By understanding average salaries, cost of living, home values, neighborhoods, and schools in Commerce, CA, you can make more confident decisions about whether this dynamic, centrally located city aligns with your lifestyle and long-term goals.