Gardena CA Salary And Cost Of Living Overview

Gardena, CA, located in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County, offers residents a central location with relatively attainable housing compared to nearby coastal cities. However, like much of Southern California, the balance between income levels and overall cost of living is a critical factor for anyone considering living or working in Gardena. Understanding salaries, housing prices, rental costs, and neighborhood features can help you make an informed decision about relocating to or within Gardena, California.

Average Salary In Gardena CA

The average salary in Gardena, CA reflects both its industrial roots and its growing service and logistics sectors. While specific earnings vary widely by industry and experience, workers typically benefit from proximity to major employment centers in Los Angeles, Torrance, and the greater South Bay area.

Below is a general snapshot of estimated annual earnings in Gardena, CA and the surrounding region:

Job Category	Estimated Average Annual Salary (Gardena Area)
Administrative & Office Support	$40,000 – $55,000
Retail & Customer Service	$32,000 – $45,000
Skilled Trades & Logistics	$45,000 – $65,000
Healthcare Professionals	$55,000 – $90,000
Education & Public Sector	$50,000 – $80,000
Technology & Professional Services	$70,000 – $110,000+

Because Gardena sits within the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area, many residents commute to nearby cities where wages may be slightly higher, while still benefiting from Gardena’s relatively moderate housing prices. When evaluating job offers in Gardena, CA, it is important to compare take-home pay with the area’s housing and transportation costs.

Cost Of Living In Gardena CA

The cost of living in Gardena, CA is generally lower than in coastal South Bay cities like Manhattan Beach or Redondo Beach, yet still above the national average. Housing and transportation tend to be the largest budget items for most households, followed by food and healthcare.

The table below provides a comparative view of cost-of-living categories, using the national average as a baseline index of 100:

Cost Category	Gardena CA Index	National Average Index
Overall Cost Of Living	135 – 145	100
Housing	160 – 180	100
Groceries	110 – 120	100
Transportation	135 – 150	100
Utilities	95 – 105	100
Healthcare	105 – 115	100

Housing and transportation are the key drivers behind Gardena’s higher-than-average living expenses. Many residents rely on cars due to regional commuting patterns, and housing prices reflect strong demand in the Los Angeles area. On the positive side, utility costs are relatively moderate thanks to the mild coastal climate, and residents have access to a wide variety of grocery and retail options, which can help with budget management.

Average Home Values And Rents In Gardena CA

When examining the average home values and rental prices in Gardena, CA, it becomes clear that the city offers a middle ground between the high-cost coastal neighborhoods and some of the more affordable inland communities. Homebuyers and renters often choose Gardena for its central location, freeway access, and relatively accessible pricing compared to nearby beach cities.

The following chart-style table provides an overview of typical housing costs in Gardena, CA:

Housing Type	Estimated Price Or Rent (Monthly)
Median Single-Family Home Value	$750,000 – $850,000
Median Condo/Townhome Value	$550,000 – $700,000
Average Rent – Studio Apartment	$1,600 – $1,900
Average Rent – 1-Bedroom Apartment	$1,900 – $2,300
Average Rent – 2-Bedroom Apartment	$2,300 – $2,800
Average Rent – 3-Bedroom Home	$2,900 – $3,600

These figures will naturally fluctuate over time, but they illustrate that housing in Gardena, CA remains more attainable than in many Westside or beach communities while still requiring careful financial planning. Prospective buyers should also factor in property taxes, homeowners insurance, and potential homeowner association (HOA) fees when evaluating total monthly housing costs.

Best Neighborhoods In Gardena CA

Choosing where to live within the city is just as important as understanding the overall cost of living. The best neighborhoods in Gardena, CA offer a combination of convenient access, community amenities, and relative housing affordability. While “best” will depend on your priorities, several areas consistently stand out among residents and home seekers.

Here is an at-a-glance comparison of some notable neighborhoods and areas in and around Gardena, CA:

Neighborhood/Area	Key Features	Typical Housing
Hollypark Area	Tree-lined streets, single-family homes, community parks	Mid-century homes, moderate lot sizes
North Gardena	Convenient freeway access, close to employment centers	Mix of single-family homes and small multi-family properties
West Gardena	Proximity to Torrance and retail corridors	Apartments, townhomes, and classic single-family homes
Central Gardena	Near shopping, dining, and local services	Diverse mix of housing styles and densities
South Gardena	Access to major roads, industrial and commercial areas nearby	Single-family homes, some newer infill developments

As you explore neighborhoods in Gardena, CA, consider your commute, school preferences, and desired lifestyle. Areas closer to major freeways may offer exceptional convenience for commuting but can also experience more traffic and noise. Conversely, interior residential streets often provide a quieter and more traditional suburban feel.

Schools And Education In Gardena CA

For families, schools in Gardena, CA are a central consideration when evaluating both quality of life and long-term housing decisions. Gardena is served primarily by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), with a selection of public elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as charter and private options within a short driving distance.

The table below summarizes key educational options in and around Gardena, CA:

School Type	Examples In Or Near Gardena CA	Notes
Public Elementary Schools	Gardena Elementary, 186th Street Elementary (nearby)	Serve local neighborhoods with standard LAUSD curriculum
Public Middle Schools	Peary Middle School, Henry Clay Middle School (nearby)	Offer core academics, sports, and extracurriculars
Public High Schools	Gardena High School	Comprehensive high school serving the Gardena community
Charter Schools	Various LA-area charters within commuting distance	Admission often by lottery; specialized programs available
Private & Parochial Schools	Local private academies and faith-based schools nearby	Smaller class sizes; tuition-based
Colleges & Universities (Nearby)	El Camino College, CSU Dominguez Hills	Accessible higher education and continuing education programs

Because school performance and program offerings can change over time, it is wise to review the latest school ratings, visit campuses, and speak directly with administrators. This will help you determine which parts of Gardena, CA best match your educational expectations and budget.

Balancing Salary And Cost Of Living In Gardena CA

In summary, Gardena, CA presents a compelling option for individuals and families seeking relatively attainable housing within the Los Angeles area. Average salaries in Gardena benefit from proximity to major employment hubs, while the city’s cost of living, though higher than the national average, is often more manageable than in nearby coastal communities.

By carefully weighing average salaries, housing prices, rental costs, neighborhood characteristics, and school options, you can develop a clear picture of what life in Gardena, CA may look like for you. Whether you are relocating for work, looking for a centrally located home base, or comparing South Bay communities, a detailed understanding of Gardena’s local economics will help you make confident, informed decisions about your future in this diverse and dynamic Southern California city.