Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Hawaiian Gardens, CA

Last Updated: November 23, 2025By Tags:
Hawaiian Gardens, CA

Living And Working In Hawaiian Gardens CA

Hawaiian Gardens, CA is a small but vibrant community in southeastern Los Angeles County. Known for its central location near major freeways, diverse population, and proximity to employment centers in Long Beach and Orange County, it attracts residents who want urban access with a tight-knit neighborhood feel. Understanding the salary levels, cost of living, housing market, and schools in Hawaiian Gardens, CA is essential for anyone considering a move or evaluating a job offer in the area.

Below, we break down the average income, living expenses, home prices, and rental rates in Hawaiian Gardens, CA, while also highlighting some of the best residential areas and educational options. This local guide is designed to help you make an informed decision and to serve as a reference for families, professionals, and investors interested in Hawaiian Gardens, CA.

Average Salary In Hawaiian Gardens CA

Hawaiian Gardens, CA is primarily a residential community with many residents working in nearby cities such as Long Beach, Lakewood, Cerritos, and Anaheim. As a result, average salaries in Hawaiian Gardens tend to reflect the broader employment market of Los Angeles and Orange County.

Although figures can vary depending on source and year, typical income levels in Hawaiian Gardens, CA can be summarized as follows:

Income Metric (Hawaiian Gardens, CA) Estimated Amount (Annual)
Median Household Income $60,000 – $70,000
Per Capita Income $22,000 – $26,000
Typical Range for Full-Time Workers $35,000 – $75,000
Professional/Technical Roles (Regional) $70,000 – $110,000+

Service, retail, hospitality, and light industrial jobs are common in and around Hawaiian Gardens, CA. Meanwhile, those in healthcare, education, engineering, or technology often commute to nearby employment hubs and command higher-than-average salaries. When evaluating a job in Hawaiian Gardens, CA, it is wise to compare your offer to regional norms for Los Angeles County, as many residents work beyond the city limits but still call Hawaiian Gardens home.

Cost Of Living In Hawaiian Gardens CA

The overall cost of living in Hawaiian Gardens, CA is higher than the national average but generally in line with other communities in Los Angeles County. Housing and transportation are the largest cost drivers, while groceries and healthcare are moderately above national benchmarks. Because Hawaiian Gardens, CA is compact and well-connected, some residents can reduce transportation costs by shortening commutes or using nearby transit options.

The following table compares typical monthly expenses for a modest lifestyle in Hawaiian Gardens, CA for a single adult and a small family:

Monthly Expense Category Single Adult Family of 3–4
Rent (Apartment) $1,600 – $2,000 $2,100 – $2,700
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Trash) $140 – $220 $190 – $260
Groceries $300 – $450 $650 – $900
Transportation (Gas, Insurance, Local Travel) $250 – $400 $400 – $650
Healthcare (Out-of-Pocket) $120 – $220 $250 – $450
Miscellaneous (Phone, Internet, Entertainment) $200 – $350 $300 – $500

Overall, many households in Hawaiian Gardens, CA spend a significant share of income on housing. Carefully budgeting for rent or mortgage payments, along with transportation and childcare where applicable, will be crucial for maintaining a comfortable lifestyle in Hawaiian Gardens.

Average Home Values And Rents In Hawaiian Gardens CA

The housing market in Hawaiian Gardens, CA is influenced by its position near the border of Los Angeles and Orange Counties, with easy access to the 605 and 91 freeways. While the city is relatively small, it offers a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartment communities. Prices tend to be somewhat lower than coastal cities such as Long Beach or Huntington Beach, but higher than many inland areas.

Below is an overview of typical home values and rental rates in Hawaiian Gardens, CA:

Housing Metric (Hawaiian Gardens, CA) Estimated Range
Median Single-Family Home Value $650,000 – $750,000
Entry-Level Condo/Townhome $450,000 – $600,000
Typical 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent $1,600 – $1,900 per month
Typical 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent $1,900 – $2,300 per month
Typical 3-Bedroom Single-Family Rent $2,400 – $3,000+ per month

Competition for rentals can be strong in Hawaiian Gardens, CA due to the city’s limited size and convenient location. Prospective renters and buyers should monitor listings closely and be prepared to act quickly when an appropriately priced property becomes available. Working with a local real estate professional familiar with Hawaiian Gardens, CA can provide an important advantage in this competitive market.

Best Neighborhoods In Hawaiian Gardens CA

Because Hawaiian Gardens, CA is relatively compact, many residents enjoy similar access to parks, schools, and major roads. Even so, some areas stand out for their residential character, proximity to amenities, or overall feel. While “neighborhoods” in Hawaiian Gardens are not always formally defined, the following general areas are frequently considered desirable:

Area In Hawaiian Gardens, CA Key Features
Central Hawaiian Gardens Close to city services, parks, and schools; walkable access to local shops and eateries.
Residential Streets Near Carson St Primarily single-family homes; convenient access to the 605 Freeway and regional shopping areas.
Neighborhoods Near Norwalk Blvd Mixture of single-family homes and small apartment complexes; good connectivity to neighboring cities.
Areas Near Fedde Middle School And Local Parks Appealing to families seeking proximity to schools, playgrounds, and recreational facilities.

When searching for the best neighborhoods in Hawaiian Gardens, CA, consider factors such as commute time, access to public transportation, proximity to preferred schools, and overall noise levels. Visiting at different times of day can provide a realistic sense of traffic, activity, and community atmosphere before you choose a specific area.

Schools And Education In Hawaiian Gardens CA

Schools in Hawaiian Gardens, CA are an important consideration for families evaluating the cost of living and quality of life. The city is primarily served by the ABC Unified School District, which encompasses multiple communities in the region. Residents also have access to nearby private and charter school options, as well as community colleges and universities within a reasonable driving distance.

The following table highlights several educational options commonly associated with Hawaiian Gardens, CA (note: individual attendance zones can change, so always verify with the district):

School Or Institution Type Notes For Hawaiian Gardens, CA Residents
Local Elementary Schools (ABC Unified) Public K–6 Serve younger students within or near Hawaiian Gardens; emphasize core academics and community involvement.
Fedde Middle School Public 7–8 Nearby middle school for Hawaiian Gardens, CA; offers standard curriculum plus extracurricular activities.
Regional High Schools (ABC Unified) Public 9–12 Hawaiian Gardens students typically attend high schools in neighboring communities within the same district.
Charter And Private Schools (Nearby Cities) Various Additional options for families seeking specialized programs, religious education, or alternative learning models.
Local Community Colleges Higher Education Colleges in Cerritos, Long Beach, and surrounding cities offer affordable pathways for career training and transfer degrees.

Parents in Hawaiian Gardens, CA are encouraged to review school performance data, visit campuses, and connect with administrators to determine the best fit for their children. Access to regional colleges and universities also enhances long-term educational opportunities for residents of all ages.

Final Thoughts On Salary And Cost Of Living In Hawaiian Gardens CA

Hawaiian Gardens, CA offers a blend of suburban convenience, regional connectivity, and community-oriented living. While the cost of living and housing prices are higher than the national average, they remain generally in line with other Los Angeles County communities. Residents benefit from access to job markets across LA and Orange County, with salaries reflecting a broad mix of service, professional, and technical occupations.

By carefully comparing average salaries, home values, rental rates, and everyday expenses, you can decide whether Hawaiian Gardens, CA aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle preferences. Prospective residents should also factor in local schools, neighborhood characteristics, and commuting patterns. With thoughtful planning, Hawaiian Gardens, CA can be a practical and rewarding place to call home in Southern California.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Hawaiian Gardens, CA

What is the cost of living like in Hawaiian Gardens, CA?

Hawaiian Gardens generally has a moderate cost of living compared with many other parts of Los Angeles County. Housing tends to be more affordable than in coastal or more central LA neighborhoods, with a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and small multi-unit buildings. Daily expenses such as groceries, gas, and utilities are close to the regional average. Residents should still expect California-level costs, including higher fuel prices and insurance, but many people find Hawaiian Gardens to be a relatively budget-conscious option for the area.

What are the housing options and neighborhoods like in Hawaiian Gardens?

Hawaiian Gardens is a small, mostly residential city with a close-knit feel. Housing options primarily include single-family homes, townhomes, and low- to mid-rise apartment communities. Many streets feature modest lots, mature trees, and walkable blocks. Because the city is compact, most neighborhoods are close to local shops, parks, schools, and community facilities. Renters will find a range of older and updated units, while buyers can find entry-level homes compared with higher-priced parts of the county.

How is the commute and transportation in and around Hawaiian Gardens?

Hawaiian Gardens is conveniently located near several major freeways, including the I-605 and the I-91, providing relatively straightforward access to other parts of Los Angeles and Orange County. Most residents rely on cars for daily commuting, though local and regional bus routes operated by Long Beach Transit and other agencies serve the area. Travel times vary with traffic, but many employment centers in Long Beach, Cerritos, Lakewood, and parts of Orange County are within a 15 to 30 minute drive. Bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure is growing, but it remains primarily a car-oriented community.

What is the community atmosphere like in Hawaiian Gardens?

Hawaiian Gardens has the feel of a small, tight-knit city where many residents know their neighbors and participate in local events. The community is diverse, with a range of cultural backgrounds reflected in local businesses, restaurants, and community programs. The city and local organizations sponsor events, recreational activities, and youth programs that encourage resident involvement. Because the city is geographically small, amenities such as parks, schools, and civic buildings are relatively accessible, which supports a strong sense of local identity and connection.

What amenities and services are available to residents of Hawaiian Gardens?

Residents of Hawaiian Gardens have access to essential amenities, including grocery stores, neighborhood markets, pharmacies, and a variety of local dining options. The city maintains parks, sports fields, and community facilities that offer recreation programs, classes, and events for all ages. Nearby cities such as Lakewood, Cerritos, and Long Beach provide additional shopping centers, medical offices, and entertainment venues within a short drive. Public schools are served by surrounding school districts, and there are also nearby private and charter school options, giving families several educational choices.

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