Salary And Cost Of Living In Downey CA

Downey, California is a thriving city in southeast Los Angeles County, known for its central location, strong community identity, and mix of residential and commercial areas. For professionals and families considering a move, understanding the salary expectations and cost of living in Downey, CA is crucial for making an informed decision. This guide provides a detailed look at average incomes, housing costs, everyday expenses, neighborhoods, and schools, helping you evaluate whether Downey fits your financial and lifestyle goals.

Average Salary In Downey CA

Income levels in Downey generally reflect its status as a middle‑to‑upper middle‑income suburb within the Greater Los Angeles region. While specific salaries vary based on industry and experience, typical earnings offer a helpful benchmark for planning your budget in Downey, CA.

Below is an illustrative overview of estimated average annual salaries in Downey, CA for some common roles and sectors:

Job Category (Downey, CA)	Estimated Average Annual Salary
Healthcare Professionals (RNs, Therapists)	$80,000 – $115,000
Public Sector & Education	$55,000 – $95,000
Retail & Hospitality	$30,000 – $45,000
Skilled Trades & Technicians	$55,000 – $85,000
Professional Services (Finance, Legal, Tech)	$75,000 – $120,000+

Because Downey is closely connected to the broader Los Angeles employment market, many residents commute to nearby cities for work. This often allows them to access Los Angeles–level salaries while enjoying comparatively more attainable housing costs in Downey, CA. When evaluating your move, it is wise to compare your expected income with local housing, transportation, and childcare expenses.

Cost Of Living In Downey CA

The overall cost of living in Downey, CA is higher than the U.S. average but generally somewhat more moderate than some of the most expensive parts of Los Angeles County. Housing is the largest contributor to higher expenses, but food, transportation, and healthcare also trend above national norms.

The following table provides a simplified comparison of Downey’s estimated cost of living index relative to national baselines, where 100 represents the U.S. average:

Category	Downey, CA Index	U.S. Average Index
Overall Cost Of Living	135	100
Housing	165	100
Groceries	110	100
Transportation	125	100
Healthcare	105	100
Utilities	100	100

Housing and transportation make up the majority of the premium, which is typical for Southern California cities. However, by carefully choosing neighborhoods, managing commute strategies, and budgeting for groceries and entertainment, many residents find Downey, CA to be a reasonable compromise between affordability and access to big‑city amenities.

Average Home Values And Rents In Downey CA

Real estate prices and rental rates are central to understanding the cost of living in Downey, California. While home values have risen steadily in recent years, Downey still tends to be more accessible than some Westside or coastal Los Angeles communities.

The chart below summarizes estimated average housing costs in Downey, CA compared with national figures:

Housing Metric	Downey, CA	U.S. Average
Median Single‑Family Home Value	$750,000 – $800,000	~$420,000
Median Condo/Townhome Value	$550,000 – $650,000	~$350,000
Average 1‑Bedroom Rent	$1,900 – $2,200 / month	~$1,500 / month
Average 2‑Bedroom Rent	$2,300 – $2,800 / month	~$1,800 / month
Average 3‑Bedroom Rent	$2,900 – $3,500+ / month	~$2,200 / month

Homebuyers in Downey, CA will find a mix of mid‑century ranch homes, newer infill developments, and townhome communities. Because inventory can be tight, working with a local real estate professional familiar with Downey neighborhoods is often essential. Renters should budget for upfront move‑in costs and be prepared for competitive application processes, especially for well‑located units near major freeways and shopping centers.

Best Neighborhoods In Downey CA

Downey offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own character, price point, and lifestyle advantages. When comparing best neighborhoods in Downey, CA, consider proximity to schools, parks, major employers, and transportation routes such as I‑5, I‑105, and I‑605.

Downey, CA Neighborhood	Key Features	Typical Home Price Range
North Downey	Established, tree‑lined streets; larger lots; convenient access to major freeways; highly sought after by long‑term residents and professionals.	$800,000 – $1,100,000+
Downey Landing / Promenade Area	Close to shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment; mix of condos, townhomes, and single‑family homes; strong appeal for young professionals.	$600,000 – $900,000
Orange Estates	Historic charm with mid‑century and custom homes; walkable streets; near parks and local services; often considered one of the most desirable pockets in Downey, CA.	$750,000 – $1,200,000
South Downey	More budget‑friendly options; a mix of older homes and multifamily properties; convenient for commuters heading toward Orange County or central LA.	$600,000 – $800,000
East Downey	Residential neighborhoods with nearby schools and local parks; good option for families seeking relative affordability within Downey, CA.	$650,000 – $900,000

When researching the best areas to live in Downey, it helps to visit at different times of day, talk with residents, and factor in commute times. Location within Downey can significantly affect both housing costs and quality of life, so aligning neighborhood choice with your budget and lifestyle priorities is key.

Schools And Education In Downey CA

For many families, the reputation of schools in Downey, CA plays a central role in choosing where to live. Downey Unified School District serves most of the city and is widely regarded as a strong district within southeast Los Angeles County, offering a mix of traditional, magnet, and specialized programs.

The table below highlights several representative public schools in Downey, CA and their general characteristics:

School (Downey, CA)	Level	Notable Features
Downey High School	High School	Comprehensive academic and athletic programs; advanced placement (AP) courses; strong community traditions.
Warren High School	High School	Broad extracurricular offerings; career and technical pathways; active student organizations.
Griffiths Middle School	Middle School	Focus on college and career readiness; after‑school programs; access to technology‑enhanced learning.
East Middle School	Middle School	Supportive environment; emphasis on academic fundamentals; extracurricular clubs and sports.
Rio Hondo Elementary	Elementary School	Strong community involvement; foundational literacy and math programs; enrichment activities.
Gallatin Elementary	Elementary School	Neighborhood‑oriented campus; focus on early learning; programs to support diverse learners.

In addition to public schools, Downey, CA offers several private and parochial school options, as well as convenient access to nearby community colleges and universities in the Los Angeles region. Parents evaluating schools in Downey should review current performance data, visit campuses, and consider specialized programs such as dual‑immersion, STEM, or arts‑focused tracks.

Living In Downey CA Balancing Salary And Lifestyle

Understanding the salary and cost of living in Downey, CA is essential for determining whether this dynamic city aligns with your financial expectations and quality‑of‑life goals. While housing and everyday expenses are higher than national averages, access to strong regional job markets, solid schools, and attractive neighborhoods helps many residents feel the trade‑off is worthwhile.

By carefully comparing your expected income, housing budget, and preferred neighborhood, you can identify the best fit within Downey, California. Whether you are a young professional seeking a centrally located apartment, a family prioritizing schools and parks, or a long‑term homeowner looking for stability, Downey offers a compelling blend of opportunity and community. Thoughtful planning around salary, home values, and everyday costs will help you make the most of living in Downey, CA and enjoy all that this Southeast Los Angeles city has to offer.