Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Diamond Bar, CA
Diamond Bar, CA


Salary And Cost Of Living In Diamond Bar CA
Located at the eastern edge of Los Angeles County, Diamond Bar, CA is known for its well‑planned neighborhoods, strong schools, and convenient freeway access to job centers in Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. For individuals and families considering a move, understanding the average salary, cost of living, housing market, neighborhoods, and schools in Diamond Bar, CA is essential. The following guide provides a detailed, locally focused overview to help you evaluate whether Diamond Bar fits your lifestyle and financial goals.
Average Salary In Diamond Bar CA
Because Diamond Bar is primarily a residential community, many residents commute to nearby employment hubs such as Los Angeles, Anaheim, and Irvine. As a result, salary levels often reflect regional earnings rather than just local jobs. While specific numbers vary by source and year, incomes in Diamond Bar tend to be higher than the national average and slightly above the overall California median.
Below is an illustrative breakdown of typical annual salary ranges by occupation level in the Diamond Bar, CA area:
| Role Type | Example Positions | Estimated Annual Salary Range (Diamond Bar Area) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry‑Level | Administrative Assistant, Retail Associate, Junior Technician | $38,000 – $55,000 |
| Mid‑Level Professional | Teacher, Registered Nurse, Accountant, Analyst | $65,000 – $100,000 |
| Senior / Manager | Project Manager, Senior Engineer, School Administrator | $95,000 – $140,000 |
| Executive / Specialized | Director, Physician, Attorney, Senior Tech Roles | $150,000+ |
Many households in Diamond Bar are dual‑income, which is an important factor when comparing earnings to the local cost of living. Higher household incomes often help offset housing and transportation costs, which are above the national average.
Cost Of Living In Diamond Bar CA
The cost of living in Diamond Bar, CA is generally considered high compared with U.S. averages, yet somewhat more moderate than some nearby upscale communities in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Housing is the primary driver of expenses, while other categories such as groceries and utilities track closer to regional norms.
To provide an approximate comparison, the following table summarizes typical monthly costs for a single person and a family of four living in Diamond Bar (excluding income taxes and major debt payments):
| Expense Category | Single Adult (Renting) | Family Of Four (Renting) |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | $1,900 – $2,400 | $2,800 – $3,500 |
| Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Trash) | $120 – $180 | $180 – $250 |
| Internet & Mobile | $80 – $140 | $140 – $220 |
| Groceries | $350 – $500 | $800 – $1,100 |
| Transportation (Fuel, Insurance, Local Transit) | $250 – $400 | $500 – $750 |
| Health Care (Out‑of‑Pocket) | $150 – $250 | $350 – $550 |
| Entertainment / Dining Out | $150 – $300 | $250 – $450 |
Overall, many residents find that the quality of life in Diamond Bar, CA—including safety, schools, and community amenities—helps justify the higher living costs. When planning a move, it is wise to create a detailed budget that reflects your particular lifestyle and commuting patterns.
Average Home Values And Rents In Diamond Bar CA
The housing market in Diamond Bar, CA is competitive, with strong demand from buyers seeking suburban homes with good schools and convenient freeway access. While exact figures fluctuate with the market, home prices are typically well above national averages and in line with other desirable suburbs in the Greater Los Angeles area.
Below is an illustrative overview of typical home values and rental prices in Diamond Bar, CA:
| Property Type | Typical Size | Estimated Price / Rent Range |
|---|---|---|
| Condominium / Townhome | 2–3 bedrooms, 900–1,400 sq. ft. | Purchase: $520,000 – $750,000 |
| Single‑Family Home (Standard Lot) | 3–4 bedrooms, 1,400–2,000 sq. ft. | Purchase: $780,000 – $1,050,000 |
| Single‑Family Home (Larger / View Lot) | 4–5+ bedrooms, 2,000+ sq. ft. | Purchase: $1,050,000 – $1,600,000+ |
| Apartment Rental (1 Bedroom) | 500–800 sq. ft. | Rent: $1,800 – $2,200 per month |
| Apartment / Condo Rental (2–3 Bedroom) | 800–1,200 sq. ft. | Rent: $2,300 – $3,000 per month |
| Single‑Family Home Rental | 3–4 bedrooms | Rent: $3,000 – $3,900 per month |
Because values can shift quickly, it is important to consult a local real estate professional or updated online listings for current data. However, these ranges provide a solid framework for estimating the housing budget required to live in Diamond Bar, CA, whether you plan to rent or buy.
Best Neighborhoods In Diamond Bar CA
One of the reasons people are drawn to the area is the variety of neighborhoods in Diamond Bar, CA, each with its own character, amenities, and price points. From master‑planned communities to hillside homes with panoramic views, there are options to suit many preferences.
The following table highlights several well‑known neighborhoods or areas within Diamond Bar and the features that often attract residents:
| Neighborhood / Area | Key Features | General Price Level |
|---|---|---|
| The Country Estates | Gated community, large lots, luxury homes, equestrian trails, strong privacy and security | $$$$ (High‑end) |
| Diamond Bar Summit / Hilltop Areas | View homes, cul‑de‑sac streets, access to parks and trails, quiet residential feel | $$$–$$$$ |
| South Diamond Bar | Proximity to Orange County, freeway access (57 & 60), mix of single‑family homes and condos | $$$ |
| Central Diamond Bar | Close to shopping centers, schools, and community amenities; convenient for commuters | $$–$$$ |
| North Diamond Bar | Established neighborhoods, parks, and a mix of older and updated homes | $$–$$$ |
As you evaluate neighborhoods, consider not only home prices but also school district boundaries, commute routes, nearby parks, and local shopping. Visiting at different times of day and speaking with local residents can provide additional insight into the community feel.
Schools And Education In Diamond Bar CA
For many families, schools in Diamond Bar, CA are a major factor in the decision to live in the area. Diamond Bar is served primarily by the Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD), which is widely regarded as one of the stronger public school districts in the region. Portions of the city may also fall under other nearby districts, so checking specific addresses is important.
Key highlights of the Diamond Bar, CA education landscape include:
| School Level | Examples In Or Serving Diamond Bar | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Schools | Evergreen, Castle Rock, Maple Hill, Quail Summit (names may vary by boundary) | Strong academic expectations, active parent organizations, after‑school programs |
| Middle Schools | Chaparral Middle School, South Pointe Middle School | Honors and advanced coursework, music and arts programs, competitive academic teams |
| High Schools | Diamond Bar High School, Walnut High School (depending on address) | Advanced Placement courses, high graduation and college‑going rates, well‑known music and athletics |
| Private & Supplemental | Local private schools, tutoring centers, enrichment programs | Options for specialized instruction, religious education, and academic support |
Because school performance and offerings can change over time, it is advisable to review recent test scores, visit school and district websites, and, when possible, schedule campus tours. For families prioritizing education, aligning your housing search with preferred school boundaries is a critical step.
Balancing Salary And Lifestyle In Diamond Bar CA
When considering a move, it is important to weigh salary opportunities against the overall cost of living in Diamond Bar, CA. The city offers higher‑than‑average incomes, but it also comes with elevated housing and transportation costs. At the same time, the combination of strong schools, relatively low crime rates, and community amenities such as parks and shopping centers contribute to a desirable lifestyle.
By carefully evaluating your income potential, housing budget, preferred neighborhoods, and education needs, you can determine whether Diamond Bar, CA is the right fit for your financial and personal goals. With thoughtful planning and realistic expectations, many individuals and families find that Diamond Bar offers a rewarding balance of career access, suburban comfort, and long‑term value.


Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Diamond Bar, CA
What is the overall quality of life like in Diamond Bar, CA?
How are the public schools in Diamond Bar?
What is the housing market like in Diamond Bar?
What is the commute and transportation situation in Diamond Bar?
What amenities, recreation, and community services are available?
latest video
news via inbox
Sign up to get local tips delivered to your inbox.

