Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Paramount, CA
Paramount, CA
Salary And Cost Of Living In Paramount CA
Paramount, California, located in southeast Los Angeles County, attracts residents with its central location, diverse community, and relative affordability compared with many other parts of the Los Angeles metro area. For anyone considering moving to or within this city, understanding the average salary, cost of living, housing market, neighborhoods, and schools in Paramount, CA is essential. The following guide provides an up-to-date, localized overview to help you evaluate whether Paramount, CA fits your lifestyle and budget needs.
Average Salary In Paramount CA
The average salary in Paramount, CA reflects its role as a working-class and middle-income community within the Greater Los Angeles region. Wages vary by industry, education, and experience, but local estimates and regional data can provide a useful benchmark.
Many Paramount residents are employed in manufacturing, logistics, retail, health care, and service industries. Compared to the statewide average, earnings can be modest, but they are often offset by slightly lower housing costs than some nearby coastal cities.
Below is an illustrative table summarizing typical annual salary ranges in Paramount, CA by occupation category (rounded estimates based on regional labor data and similar LA County communities):
| Occupation Category | Typical Salary Range (Annual) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Retail & Service Workers | $32,000 – $45,000 | Includes cashiers, clerks, food service staff |
| Warehouse & Logistics | $38,000 – $55,000 | Distribution centers, drivers, shipping staff |
| Skilled Trades & Technicians | $45,000 – $70,000 | Maintenance, electricians, machinists |
| Administrative & Office Support | $40,000 – $60,000 | Office assistants, coordinators, clerical roles |
| Health Care Support & Nursing | $45,000 – $85,000 | Medical assistants, LVNs, RNs (varies by credential) |
| Managers & Professionals | $65,000 – $110,000+ | Operations, education, specialized professionals |
Overall, many full-time workers in Paramount, CA fall in the $40,000 to $65,000 annual income range, though households with multiple earners can exceed this. When evaluating job offers, it is important to weigh salary against the city’s cost of living, especially housing and transportation.
Cost Of Living In Paramount CA
The cost of living in Paramount, CA is influenced by its position within Los Angeles County, where housing costs are relatively high compared to the U.S. average. However, Paramount typically remains more affordable than upscale beach cities or Westside neighborhoods.
To help you understand your potential expenses, the table below outlines a sample monthly budget for a single adult or small family in Paramount, CA. These figures are approximate and will vary by lifestyle and household size.
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1–2 BR Apartment) | $1,800 – $2,600 | Depends on size, age of building, and location |
| Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Trash) | $150 – $250 | Higher for larger units or heavy AC use |
| Internet & Mobile Phone | $90 – $170 | Varies by provider and data plans |
| Groceries & Household Items | $400 – $800 | Higher for larger families or premium brands |
| Transportation (Gas, Insurance, Transit) | $250 – $500 | Car ownership is common; some use Metro buses |
| Health Care & Insurance | $150 – $400 | Depends on employer coverage and family size |
| Entertainment, Dining & Misc. | $150 – $350 | Restaurants, streaming, gyms, local activities |
When compared with income levels, it becomes clear that housing is the largest expense in Paramount, CA. As a result, many residents share housing or live in multi-generational households to keep overall costs manageable.
Average Home Values And Rents In Paramount CA
The real estate market in Paramount, CA has historically offered more attainable prices than many neighboring communities, while still reflecting the strong demand across greater Los Angeles. Over time, home values have appreciated steadily, and rents have increased along with regional trends.
The table below provides a stylized snapshot of typical home values and rents in Paramount, CA compared with Los Angeles County overall. These are approximate ranges and can shift based on market conditions.
| Property Type | Paramount CA Average | Greater LA County Average |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Family Home Value | $550,000 – $700,000 | $750,000 – $900,000 |
| Condo / Townhome Value | $430,000 – $580,000 | $550,000 – $750,000 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent | $1,700 – $2,100 | $1,900 – $2,400 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent | $2,000 – $2,600 | $2,300 – $3,000 |
| 3-Bedroom Home Rent | $2,600 – $3,400 | $2,900 – $3,900 |
As this comparison suggests, Paramount, CA often provides a more budget-conscious entry point into the Southern California housing market. Prospective buyers and renters should work with local real estate professionals and property managers to find the best values in the city’s various neighborhoods.
Best Neighborhoods In Paramount CA
When exploring the best neighborhoods in Paramount, CA, it is helpful to consider factors such as proximity to schools, parks, major roads, and local amenities. While Paramount is relatively compact, subtle differences between areas can affect your day-to-day experience.
Below is a simple comparative chart-style table highlighting some well-regarded residential areas and their characteristics:
| Area / Neighborhood | Key Features | Typical Appeal |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Paramount Area | Near Paramount Boulevard, shops, and city services | Good for those who want walkable access to dining and local businesses |
| Paramount Park Vicinity | Close to Paramount Park and recreational facilities | Appeals to families seeking green space, sports fields, and community events |
| North Paramount (Near Somerset Blvd) | Residential streets, access to major roads and nearby cities | Convenient for commuters who travel into Long Beach, Downey, or LA |
| West Paramount (Near Garfield Ave) | Mix of single-family homes and apartments | Popular with renters and first-time homebuyers looking for relative affordability |
| Neighborhoods Near Local Schools | Short commutes to elementary and middle schools | Attractive for households prioritizing school access and community feel |
Overall, Paramount, CA neighborhoods blend residential stability with easy access to major freeways, including the 105 and 710, making it a strategic location for workers who commute throughout the Los Angeles region.
Schools And Education In Paramount CA
The schools in Paramount, CA are primarily served by the Paramount Unified School District, which includes elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as alternative and adult education programs. Parents often consider academic performance, specialized programs, and extracurricular offerings when choosing where to live.
The overview below highlights some of the educational options in and around Paramount, CA:
| School Level | Examples In Or Serving Paramount CA | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Schools | Alondra, Collins, Jefferson (and others in Paramount Unified) | Neighborhood-based campuses, reading and math support programs |
| Middle Schools | Zamboni Middle School, Paramount Park Middle School | Technology integration, sports, and student clubs |
| High Schools | Paramount High School (West and Senior Campus) | Career pathways, athletics, arts, and college-prep coursework |
| Alternative & Adult Education | Paramount Adult School and regional programs | English language classes, GED, and workforce training |
| Nearby Colleges & Universities | Long Beach City College, Cerritos College, CSU Long Beach | Easy access to higher education within a short drive |
For families, it is advisable to review recent performance metrics, visit campuses when possible, and speak with local parents to gain firsthand insight into the education environment in Paramount, CA.
Living In Paramount CA Balancing Salary And Lifestyle
When you bring together the average salaries, cost of living, home prices, neighborhoods, and schools in Paramount, CA, a clear picture emerges of a city that offers a relatively accessible entry into the Los Angeles area, especially for working families and commuters. While housing costs remain significant, they are generally lower than many coastal or highly urban parts of the region, and a variety of rental and ownership options are available.
By carefully comparing your income with typical living expenses, assessing the neighborhoods that best match your lifestyle, and exploring the local school system, you can determine whether Paramount, CA aligns with your personal and financial goals. For many, the city’s blend of affordability, central location, and community-oriented amenities makes it a compelling choice within Southern California.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Paramount, CA
What is the cost of living like in Paramount, CA?
What are the housing options and neighborhoods like in Paramount?
How are the schools and educational resources in Paramount?
What is the commute and transportation situation in Paramount?
What amenities, parks, and community activities are available in Paramount?
latest video
news via inbox
Sign up to get local tips delivered to your inbox.
