Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Montrose, CA
Montrose, CA


Salary And Cost Of Living In Montrose CA
Situated in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Montrose, CA, offers a small-town feel with convenient access to the greater Los Angeles area. As more professionals and families consider relocating to this charming community, understanding the average salary, cost of living, housing prices, neighborhoods, and schools in Montrose, California, becomes essential. The following guide provides a detailed look at what it costs to live comfortably in Montrose, as well as what you can expect to earn and spend on housing, transportation, and daily expenses.
Average Salary In Montrose CA
Because Montrose is an unincorporated community adjacent to Glendale and La Crescenta, salary data is often grouped with nearby areas. However, local employment patterns and income levels provide a useful snapshot of what residents typically earn.
In and around Montrose, CA, many residents work in professional services, education, healthcare, technology, and entertainment. When combined with regional statistics from the Glendale–Burbank–Pasadena corridor, the following approximations provide a reasonable guide:
| Income Metric | Estimated Amount (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Estimated Median Household Income – Montrose Area | $85,000 – $100,000 |
| Typical Individual Income | $55,000 – $70,000 |
| Professional/Technical Roles (Mid-Level) | $80,000 – $110,000 |
| Household Income Needed For Comfortable Lifestyle* | $110,000 – $140,000 |
*“Comfortable lifestyle” assumes moderate savings, some discretionary spending, and current housing costs in Montrose, California.
Overall, average salaries in Montrose CA tend to be higher than national averages, reflecting the area’s proximity to major job centers and the generally higher cost of living in Los Angeles County. Many residents commute to nearby cities such as Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, and Downtown Los Angeles for work while enjoying Montrose’s quieter residential environment.
Cost Of Living In Montrose CA
The cost of living in Montrose CA is significantly above the U.S. average, largely driven by housing and transportation. However, many residents find that the combination of quality schools, walkable shopping areas, and neighborhood charm justifies the added expense.
| Expense Category | Relative Cost vs. U.S. Average | Notes For Montrose CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | High (180–220% of U.S. average) | Major driver of overall cost; limited inventory keeps prices elevated. |
| Transportation | Moderate–High | Most residents own cars; gas, insurance, and parking add up. |
| Groceries | Moderate (110–125% of U.S. average) | Local markets and nearby chains offer variety but at LA-area prices. |
| Utilities | Moderate | Electricity and water costs are generally manageable, though summers can raise A/C usage. |
| Healthcare | Moderate–High | Strong access to regional hospitals and clinics; costs track with LA County averages. |
| Dining & Entertainment | Moderate–High | Abundant restaurants and local events in the Montrose Shopping Park and nearby cities. |
When evaluated together, these categories place Montrose CA’s overall cost of living well above the national average. Residents who relocate from less expensive regions should carefully plan budgets to align income and lifestyle expectations with the realities of Southern California pricing.
Average Home Values And Rents In Montrose CA
Housing is the largest expense for most residents, and home values in Montrose, California, reflect the area’s desirability, limited space, and strong demand from families seeking access to reputable schools.
| Housing Metric | Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
| Median Single-Family Home Value | $1,000,000 – $1,250,000 |
| Townhome/Condo Median Value | $700,000 – $900,000 |
| Average Rent – 1 Bedroom Apartment | $2,100 – $2,600 per month |
| Average Rent – 2 Bedroom Apartment | $2,600 – $3,200 per month |
| Average Rent – 3 Bedroom Home | $3,500 – $4,500+ per month |
These estimates can vary based on proximity to amenities such as the Montrose Shopping Park, local parks, and schools. Over the past decade, Montrose CA home values have generally trended upward, mirroring the broader Los Angeles housing market.
Buyers considering a move to Montrose should be prepared for competitive offers and relatively low inventory. Renters, meanwhile, may find that sharing a larger unit or seeking housing just outside of the core Montrose area can help reduce monthly costs.
Best Neighborhoods In Montrose CA
Because Montrose is a compact community, its “neighborhoods” often blend into adjacent areas such as La Crescenta and Glendale. Nevertheless, several pockets stand out for their amenities, housing styles, and overall appeal.
| Neighborhood/Area | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Montrose Shopping Park Area | Walkable district with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants; popular for those who value a vibrant, small-town main street feel. |
| Foothill Boulevard Corridor | Mix of residential and commercial properties; convenient access to transit, shops, and services. |
| Residential Streets North Of Honolulu Avenue | Primarily single-family homes, tree-lined streets, and a quiet atmosphere; highly desirable for families. |
| Adjacent La Crescenta–Montrose Area | Offers a blend of older and newer homes, many with mountain views; strong sense of community and good school access. |
| Bordering Glendale Neighborhoods | Provide more housing options, from apartments to character homes, within a short drive of central Montrose. |
The best neighborhoods in Montrose CA often share similar traits: walkability, proximity to parks and schools, and a peaceful, suburban character. Prospective buyers and renters should explore at different times of day to get a full sense of traffic patterns, noise levels, and community activities.
Schools And Education In Montrose CA
For many families, schools in Montrose CA are a primary reason for choosing the area. Montrose is served primarily by the Glendale Unified School District (GUSD), which is known for strong academic performance and diverse programs.
| School Level | Examples Near Montrose CA | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Schools | Monte Vista Elementary, Valley View Elementary (La Crescenta–Montrose area) | Generally strong test scores, active parent communities, and enrichment programs. |
| Middle Schools | Rosemont Middle School | Well-regarded academics and extracurricular opportunities; draws students from Montrose and surrounding neighborhoods. |
| High Schools | Crescenta Valley High School, Hoover High (nearby Glendale) | College-preparatory programs, athletics, arts, and advanced placement courses. |
| Private & Parochial Schools | Several independent and faith-based institutions nearby | Offer alternative educational philosophies, religious instruction, or smaller class sizes. |
Access to quality schools significantly influences home values and rental demand in Montrose CA. Families moving to the area should verify current attendance boundaries and program availability with the Glendale Unified School District, as these can change over time.
Living In Montrose CA Is It Worth The Cost
Weighing the salary and cost of living in Montrose CA requires a careful look at your income, housing budget, and lifestyle priorities. On one hand, housing and everyday expenses are notably higher than in many parts of the country. On the other hand, Montrose, California, offers a rare combination of small-town charm, strong schools, and easy access to major job centers.
For professionals and families with stable incomes that align with local averages, Montrose can provide an excellent quality of life, particularly if you value neighborhood walkability, community events, and access to the outdoors. However, those relocating from more affordable regions should plan ahead, work with a knowledgeable local real estate professional, and build a detailed budget to ensure that living in Montrose is financially sustainable.
Ultimately, the decision to move to or remain in Montrose CA hinges on how much you value its unique blend of suburban tranquility, strong schools, and proximity to Los Angeles employment hubs. For many residents, the investment is well worth it, making Montrose one of the most desirable foothill communities in Los Angeles County.


Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Montrose, CA
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