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

Last Updated: October 31, 2025By Tags:
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?

Diamond Bar offers a high quality of life characterized by well-maintained neighborhoods, strong public services, and a suburban atmosphere. Residents benefit from relatively low crime rates compared with many nearby urban areas, along with access to parks, recreational facilities, and community programs. The city’s location near major freeways provides convenient access to employment centers in Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire, while still maintaining a quieter, residential feel. The community is known for being family-oriented and culturally diverse, contributing to a welcoming and stable environment for long-term residents.

How are the public schools in Diamond Bar?

Public schools in Diamond Bar are widely regarded as a major advantage of living in the city. Most of the area is served by the Walnut Valley Unified School District and, in some sections, the Pomona Unified School District. Schools such as Diamond Bar High School and Walnut High School are consistently ranked highly for academic performance, college readiness, and extracurricular opportunities. Families are often drawn to Diamond Bar specifically for its strong educational reputation, competitive Advanced Placement and honors programs, and active parent and community involvement in school activities.

What is the housing market like in Diamond Bar?

The housing market in Diamond Bar is generally competitive and leans toward the higher end of the price range for the region, reflecting the city’s desirable schools, convenient location, and established neighborhoods. Housing options include single-family homes, townhomes, and some condominium communities. Many properties are located in quiet, hillside neighborhoods and planned developments, some with community amenities such as pools and clubhouses. While home prices and rents are higher than in some surrounding cities, residents often view the cost as a trade-off for better schools, safety, and long-term stability of the area.

What is the commute and transportation situation in Diamond Bar?

Diamond Bar is strategically located near several major freeways, including the 60, 57, and 10, providing access to Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Bernardino County. This makes it convenient for commuters, though traffic congestion is common during peak hours on these corridors. Public transportation options are more limited compared with major urban centers, but regional bus services and nearby Metrolink stations in adjacent cities offer some alternatives to driving. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for daily transportation, so factoring in commute times and freeway traffic is important when evaluating living in Diamond Bar.

What amenities, recreation, and community services are available?

Diamond Bar offers a range of amenities and recreational opportunities suited to a suburban lifestyle. The city maintains multiple parks, sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails, as well as facilities such as the Diamond Bar Center, which hosts community events, classes, and private functions. Golf enthusiasts have access to local courses, and nearby regional parks provide additional hiking and outdoor activities. Residents also benefit from convenient shopping centers, dining options, and essential services within a short drive. The city organizes community programs, senior services, and youth activities that help foster a connected and engaged community.

Mail Icon

news via inbox

Sign up to get local tips delivered to your inbox.