Salary And Cost Of Living In Sierra Madre CA

Sierra Madre, CA is a picturesque foothill community located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains in Los Angeles County. Known for its small-town charm, walkable downtown, and historic character homes, it has become an attractive option for professionals and families who want proximity to Pasadena and downtown Los Angeles while enjoying a quieter lifestyle. However, as with many Southern California communities, understanding the salary expectations and cost of living in Sierra Madre, CA is essential before making a move. The following guide explores local salaries, overall living expenses, housing, neighborhoods, and schools to help you decide whether Sierra Madre is the right fit.

Average Salary In Sierra Madre CA

When evaluating the average salary in Sierra Madre, CA, it is helpful to consider both local employment and the broader Los Angeles County job market. Many residents work in nearby cities such as Pasadena, Arcadia, and downtown Los Angeles, which influence income levels in the area.

Typical incomes in Sierra Madre and the surrounding region are often higher than the national average, reflecting both the professional job base and the elevated cost of living. Residents commonly work in fields such as healthcare, education, technology, entertainment, professional services, and public administration.

Below is a general comparison of estimated annual household and individual income figures for Sierra Madre and the broader region. These are illustrative, rounded estimates designed to provide a directional sense of earning power in the area.

Location / Metric	Estimated Amount (Annual)
Median Household Income – Sierra Madre, CA	$110,000 – $125,000
Typical Individual Income – Sierra Madre, CA	$55,000 – $70,000
Median Household Income – Los Angeles County	$80,000 – $90,000

In practice, salaries vary widely based on occupation. For example, professionals in technology, finance, or healthcare management commuting to major employment centers may earn six-figure salaries, while those working in local retail, hospitality, or service roles may earn closer to regional averages.

Because of the relatively high housing costs in Sierra Madre, many households rely on dual incomes to comfortably afford a mortgage or rent while also covering other lifestyle expenses such as childcare, transportation, and recreation.

Cost Of Living In Sierra Madre CA

The cost of living in Sierra Madre, CA is notably higher than both the state and national averages, primarily due to housing. However, residents often feel that the trade-off is worthwhile thanks to the city’s safety, community atmosphere, and scenic setting.

To better understand how Sierra Madre compares to other areas, consider the illustrative cost-of-living index below. A value of 100 represents the national average. Any figure above 100 indicates a more expensive category.

Category	Sierra Madre, CA	California Average	US Average
Overall Cost Of Living Index	175 – 185	150	100
Housing	260 – 280	210	100
Groceries	115 – 120	110	100
Transportation	125 – 130	120	100
Utilities	100 – 105	105	100
Healthcare	105 – 110	110	100

Monthly budgets will vary based on household size and lifestyle, but many families in Sierra Madre allocate the largest portion of income to housing, followed by transportation costs such as car payments, fuel, and insurance. Groceries and dining out can also be more expensive than in other parts of the country, especially at boutique or specialty markets common in the San Gabriel Valley.

Average Home Values And Rents In Sierra Madre CA

Housing is the single most important factor in the cost of living in Sierra Madre, CA. The city’s limited land area, strong community appeal, and desirable school options contribute to higher-than-average home prices and rents.

While exact numbers change with market conditions, the following table provides a snapshot of typical values in Sierra Madre compared with nearby areas. These are approximate ranges meant for informational purposes.

Housing Metric	Sierra Madre, CA	Pasadena, CA	Los Angeles County
Median Single-Family Home Value	$1,300,000 – $1,600,000	$1,000,000 – $1,300,000	$800,000 – $900,000
Typical Condo/Townhome Value	$750,000 – $950,000	$650,000 – $900,000	$550,000 – $700,000
Average Monthly Rent – 1 BR	$2,000 – $2,500	$1,900 – $2,400	$1,700 – $2,200
Average Monthly Rent – 2 BR	$2,600 – $3,200	$2,500 – $3,200	$2,200 – $2,900

Because inventory in Sierra Madre, CA is relatively limited, the housing market is often competitive. Buyers should be prepared for multiple-offer situations, while renters may see vacancies fill quickly, especially for well-maintained units near the downtown village area and schools. For many residents, homeownership in Sierra Madre is a long-term investment that balances higher initial costs with the potential for appreciation and a high quality of life.

Best Neighborhoods In Sierra Madre CA

Despite its small size, Sierra Madre, CA offers a variety of distinct neighborhoods and micro-areas, each with its own character and advantages. Choosing the best neighborhood in Sierra Madre often depends on whether you prioritize walkability, mountain views, historic charm, or access to schools and parks.

Below is an overview chart of several sought-after areas within Sierra Madre, along with key features for homebuyers and renters.

Neighborhood / Area	Key Features	Typical Housing
Downtown Village Area	Walkable to cafes, shops, and parks; community events; charming small-town feel.	Historic cottages, bungalows, and small multi-unit buildings.
Upper Sierra Madre / Foothill Area	Closer to hiking trails and mountain views; quieter streets; more privacy.	Larger single-family homes, some with terraced lots and view properties.
East Sierra Madre	Residential feel, tree-lined streets, convenient to major roads and nearby Arcadia.	Mid-century homes, updated ranch-style houses, smaller apartment communities.
West Sierra Madre	Easy access to Pasadena and the 210 Freeway; mix of older and newer homes.	Varied housing stock including cottages, remodels, and custom-builds.

The entire city generally benefits from low crime, strong civic involvement, and well-maintained public spaces. For many homebuyers and renters comparing options across the San Gabriel Valley, the combination of walkable streets, mountain scenery, and community spirit makes Sierra Madre, CA particularly appealing.

Schools And Education In Sierra Madre CA

Schools are a major reason families are drawn to Sierra Madre, CA. The city is served primarily by the Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD), and is also near several respected private and parochial schools in the greater Pasadena and Arcadia areas. Local public schools are known for active parent involvement, smaller community feel, and a range of enrichment programs.

Below is a summary of some of the key public school options associated with Sierra Madre, CA. Parents should always verify current boundaries, ratings, and programs, as these can change over time.

School	Type / Grades	Notable Features
Sierra Madre Elementary School	Public, K–5	Strong community support, arts and enrichment, walkable for many local families.
Sierra Madre Middle School	Public, 6–8	Modern campus, academic and extracurricular programs, involved PTA.
Pasadena High School (serving area)	Public, 9–12	Multiple academies, sports, arts, and college-preparatory opportunities.

In addition to public schools, families in Sierra Madre, CA may consider nearby private schools in Pasadena, Arcadia, and the surrounding San Gabriel Valley. These include religious schools, college-preparatory academies, and specialized programs that offer a range of educational philosophies and class sizes.

Overall, the education options in Sierra Madre, CA contribute significantly to its appeal for households with children, and they play an important role in supporting local property values and long-term community stability.

Living In Sierra Madre CA Is It Worth The Cost

Ultimately, deciding whether the salary levels and cost of living in Sierra Madre, CA are right for you depends on your lifestyle, income, and long-term goals. The city offers a rare combination of small-town atmosphere, charming architecture, and proximity to major employment hubs, all under the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains.

For many residents, higher housing costs are justified by the benefits: scenic surroundings, access to hiking and outdoor recreation, strong community events, walkable local businesses, and solid schooling options. At the same time, the elevated cost of living means that careful financial planning is important, particularly for first-time homebuyers and renters transitioning from less expensive regions.

If you are evaluating a relocation, consider your expected salary in Sierra Madre, CA, your preferred neighborhood, and the type of housing that best suits your needs. By comparing your income to local home values, rents, and daily living expenses, you can determine whether Sierra Madre’s distinctive blend of charm and convenience aligns with your budget and lifestyle priorities.