Salary And Cost Of Living In Compton CA

Compton, CA is a historically significant city in Los Angeles County that has been undergoing steady revitalization. Its location near major employment hubs such as Downtown Los Angeles, Long Beach, and the South Bay makes it attractive to workers seeking relatively more affordable housing while staying close to urban job markets. Understanding the salary expectations and overall cost of living in Compton, CA can help residents, new arrivals, and investors make informed decisions about where to live and work.

Below, we will explore the average salaries in Compton, CA, the cost of living, average home values and rents, and the best neighborhoods and schools in Compton, CA. These insights are especially useful for families planning a move, professionals comparing nearby cities, and anyone considering real estate investment in the area.

Average Salary In Compton CA

The job market in Compton, CA is closely tied to the broader Los Angeles County economy. Major industries influencing local wages include logistics and warehousing, retail, healthcare, education, light manufacturing, and public sector employment. While many residents commute to nearby cities, salary data focused on Compton provides a realistic snapshot of what workers can expect.

In general, the average salary in Compton, CA ranges from the low to mid $40,000s per year, depending on occupation and experience. Entry-level roles in retail or warehousing may start closer to minimum wage, while skilled trades, healthcare, and management positions can earn significantly more. Because Compton is part of the Los Angeles metro area, pay rates are often influenced by regional union agreements and large employers in surrounding cities.

To give a clearer picture, the following table outlines typical annual salary ranges for common roles in and around Compton, CA:

Job Category (Compton, CA)	Typical Annual Salary Range
Retail & Customer Service	$32,000 – $42,000
Warehouse & Logistics	$35,000 – $50,000
Skilled Trades (Electricians, Plumbers, etc.)	$50,000 – $75,000
Healthcare Support & Nursing Assistants	$38,000 – $55,000
Registered Nurses & Allied Health	$75,000 – $105,000
Office & Administrative Roles	$40,000 – $60,000
Education & Public Sector	$45,000 – $80,000

Because salaries can fluctuate with economic conditions, residents and job seekers in Compton, CA should regularly review local job postings and regional wage reports to stay current on compensation trends.

Cost Of Living In Compton CA

The cost of living in Compton, CA is generally lower than in many other parts of Los Angeles County, yet it remains higher than the national average. Housing is the largest expense for most households, but transportation, food, and healthcare also contribute significantly to monthly budgets.

Compton’s location near major freeways and transit corridors makes commuting relatively convenient, but rising gas prices and insurance costs can still impact overall affordability. Groceries and utilities are comparable to much of Southern California, while healthcare costs may vary depending on insurance coverage and providers.

The table below offers an approximate comparison of Compton’s cost of living against national and Los Angeles metro averages:

Cost Category	Compton, CA Index*	Los Angeles Metro Index*	US Average Index*
Overall Cost Of Living	125	150	100
Housing	140	190	100
Groceries	110	115	100
Transportation	130	135	100
Healthcare	105	110	100
Utilities	105	110	100

*Index values are relative estimates, where 100 represents the national average. While these numbers are approximate, they help illustrate that Compton, CA offers somewhat more affordable living than many other Los Angeles communities, especially with respect to housing.

Average Home Values And Rents In Compton CA

Real estate in Compton, CA has evolved significantly over the last decade. As nearby cities have become increasingly expensive, more buyers and renters have turned to Compton for comparatively lower home prices and rental rates. That said, home values have risen over time as demand has grown.

The average home value in Compton, CA typically falls below the overall Los Angeles County median, making it a potential entry point for first-time buyers. Single-family homes are the most common housing type, with a growing presence of townhomes and small multi-family properties. Investors often look at Compton for long-term rental opportunities due to regional job access and housing demand.

Rental prices in Compton, CA vary based on location, property condition, and unit size. One-bedroom apartments and smaller homes are usually the most affordable, while larger single-family homes command higher rents. The following table provides an illustrative snapshot of home values and typical rents:

Property Type (Compton, CA)	Estimated Median Purchase Price	Typical Monthly Rent Range
1-Bedroom Apartment	N/A (Primarily Rental)	$1,500 – $1,900
2-Bedroom Apartment / Duplex	$420,000 – $480,000	$1,900 – $2,400
3-Bedroom Single-Family Home	$520,000 – $600,000	$2,400 – $3,000
4-Bedroom Single-Family Home	$600,000 – $700,000+	$2,800 – $3,500+

While these figures are estimates and change over time, they demonstrate that home values and rents in Compton, CA generally remain below many neighboring cities, offering a balance between affordability and access to the greater Los Angeles area.

Best Neighborhoods In Compton CA

When exploring the best neighborhoods in Compton, CA, buyers and renters typically look for a combination of housing quality, community amenities, and convenient access to schools and transportation. Compton offers a number of established residential areas with tree-lined streets and single-family homes.

Some of the neighborhoods and areas often cited by residents include:

Rosewood Area – Known for primarily residential streets and proximity to local parks and schools, this area can appeal to families seeking a quieter environment while still being close to major routes.

Leland and Surrounding Blocks – Featuring many single-family homes, these streets offer a traditional suburban feel and are within reasonable driving distance of employment centers.

West Compton Adjacent Areas – Locations near the western edges of Compton, close to Gardena and Carson, may provide easier freeway access and commuting options, which can be especially attractive for professionals.

Central Compton – While more urban in character, central parts of the city are near civic facilities, shopping, and public transit, making daily errands more convenient.

Ultimately, the best neighborhood in Compton, CA for any individual or family depends on personal priorities such as proximity to work, school preferences, and desired home size. Touring multiple neighborhoods at different times of day is advisable to get a full sense of each area’s character.

Schools In Compton CA

Families considering a move often place strong emphasis on education, and the schools in Compton, CA are a key part of the community’s identity. The Compton Unified School District serves most of the city, offering elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as specialized programs and charter options.

Local schools have been actively working to improve academic performance, expand college and career readiness programs, and enhance campus facilities. Some schools partner with local colleges and organizations to provide enrichment opportunities, tutoring, and extracurricular activities.

The following table summarizes the main types of educational institutions residents can access in Compton, CA:

School Type (Compton, CA)	Examples / Notes
Public Elementary Schools	Neighborhood schools serving K–5 or K–6 with a focus on literacy, math, and foundational skills.
Public Middle Schools	Serving grades 6–8 or 7–8, often offering sports, music, and after-school programs.
Public High Schools	Comprehensive high schools with athletics, arts, and college-prep courses.
Charter & Magnet Schools	Specialized programs emphasizing STEM, arts, or college readiness.
Nearby Community Colleges & Universities	Easy access to institutions in the broader Los Angeles area for higher education and workforce training.

Parents should review school performance data, visit campuses when possible, and speak with other families to determine which Compton, CA schools best meet their children’s needs.

Living And Working In Compton CA

Taken together, the salary levels, cost of living, home values, and schools in Compton, CA paint a picture of a city that offers relative affordability within the greater Los Angeles region. While housing prices and rents have risen over time, Compton remains more accessible than many nearby communities, particularly for first-time buyers and budget-conscious renters.

With ongoing neighborhood revitalization, expanding educational initiatives, and convenient access to major employment centers, Compton, CA continues to evolve as a place where residents can build careers, invest in property, and raise families. By carefully comparing salaries, monthly expenses, and neighborhood characteristics, individuals and families can determine whether living in Compton, CA aligns with their financial goals and lifestyle priorities.