Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Stevenson Ranch, CA

Last Updated: November 20, 2025By Tags:
Stevenson Ranch, CA

Salary And Cost Of Living In Stevenson Ranch CA

Stevenson Ranch, CA, is a master‑planned community in the Santa Clarita Valley, known for its well‑rated schools, family‑friendly neighborhoods, and convenient access to the greater Los Angeles area. As more professionals consider relocating from Los Angeles or other parts of California, understanding the salary expectations and overall cost of living in Stevenson Ranch has become increasingly important. This detailed guide explores average incomes, everyday expenses, housing costs, neighborhoods, and schools to help you determine whether Stevenson Ranch, CA, is the right fit for your lifestyle and budget.

Average Salary In Stevenson Ranch CA

Stevenson Ranch has a relatively affluent population compared with many other parts of Los Angeles County. Many residents are employed in professional fields such as entertainment, technology, health care, education, and corporate management, often commuting to nearby employment centers in Santa Clarita, Burbank, and Los Angeles.

While exact salary figures can vary, local and regional data suggest that household incomes in Stevenson Ranch tend to be significantly higher than state and national averages. Below is an illustrative overview of typical income ranges based on industry and role level in the Stevenson Ranch and greater Santa Clarita Valley area.

Category Estimated Annual Salary Range Notes
Entry-Level Professional Roles $55,000 – $75,000 Administrative, junior analysts, early‑career teachers, support staff
Mid-Level Professional Roles $80,000 – $120,000 Experienced teachers, nurses, engineers, project managers
Senior/Management Roles $120,000 – $180,000+ Directors, senior engineers, physicians, senior entertainment roles
Household Income (Combined) $130,000 – $220,000+ Dual‑income professional households are common in Stevenson Ranch

High household incomes help offset the elevated housing costs and overall cost of living in Stevenson Ranch, CA. However, it is still important to evaluate your individual earning potential against local expenses, especially if you are moving from a more affordable region.

Cost Of Living In Stevenson Ranch CA

The cost of living in Stevenson Ranch, CA is higher than both the California and U.S. averages, driven primarily by housing prices. At the same time, residents often find that the quality of life, low crime rates, and strong schools justify the premium.

Below is an approximate comparison of the cost of living in Stevenson Ranch versus national benchmarks, using an index where 100 represents the U.S. average.

Expense Category Stevenson Ranch Index California Average U.S. Average
Overall Cost Of Living ~165 ~150 100
Housing ~220 ~210 100
Groceries ~115 ~110 100
Transportation ~130 ~130 100
Health Care ~105 ~105 100
Utilities ~110 ~110 100

Day‑to‑day expenses such as groceries, dining, and services in Stevenson Ranch are moderately higher than the national average but generally similar to other suburban Los Angeles communities. Residents benefit from proximity to major retailers and services in Stevenson Ranch and nearby Valencia and Santa Clarita, which helps maintain competitive prices.

Commuting costs can be a major factor for those who drive to Burbank, Hollywood, or downtown Los Angeles for work. Fuel, tolls, and vehicle maintenance should be considered when calculating your overall budget for living in Stevenson Ranch, CA.

Average Home Values And Rents In Stevenson Ranch CA

The housing market is one of the defining aspects of the cost of living in Stevenson Ranch, CA. The community is predominantly composed of single‑family homes, many built in the 1990s and 2000s, with well‑maintained neighborhoods and community amenities. As a result, home prices are higher than in many surrounding areas.

The table below provides a snapshot of typical housing prices and rents in Stevenson Ranch, CA. These are approximate figures intended to convey general trends.

Housing Type Typical Price/Monthly Rent Notes
Single‑Family Home (Median Value) $950,000 – $1,200,000+ 3–5 bedrooms, suburban lots, many with updated interiors
Townhome/Condo (Median Value) $650,000 – $850,000 Often in planned communities with shared amenities
Apartment (1–2 Bedroom) $2,400 – $3,200 per month Modern complexes, some with pools and fitness centers
Single‑Family Home Rental $3,600 – $4,800+ per month Highly sought after, especially near top‑rated schools

Because inventory can be limited, competition for homes in Stevenson Ranch, CA can be strong, particularly for well‑priced properties in family‑friendly tracts. Prospective buyers and renters should be prepared with pre‑approval or proof of funds and may benefit from working with a local real estate professional who knows the Stevenson Ranch neighborhoods well.

Best Neighborhoods In Stevenson Ranch CA

One of the main reasons families and professionals choose Stevenson Ranch, CA, is the community’s well‑planned neighborhoods and strong sense of cohesion. While the area is relatively compact, several micro‑neighborhoods and tracts stand out for their amenities, architecture, and proximity to schools and parks.

Neighborhood/Tract Key Features Typical Home Type/Price Point
Southern Oaks Spacious homes, tree‑lined streets, community parks; popular with larger families Large single‑family homes often $1.2M+ depending on size and upgrades
Stevenson Ranch Town Center Area Walkable to shops, restaurants, and services; convenient for commuters Mix of condos and smaller single‑family homes, typically mid‑ to high‑range pricing
Wisteria and Rosemont Tracts Quiet residential streets, proximity to local schools and parks Mid‑sized single‑family homes, often attractive to move‑up buyers
Apartment and Condo Communities Community amenities like pools and gyms; lower maintenance lifestyle Condos and apartments suitable for first‑time renters or downsizers

Each neighborhood in Stevenson Ranch, CA offers a slightly different balance of price, size, and amenities, so prospective residents should consider their commuting needs, school preferences, and budget when choosing where to live. The entire area benefits from nearby parks, hiking trails, and easy freeway access, which helps maintain strong demand across all tracts.

Schools And Education In Stevenson Ranch CA

Schools are a major driver of home values and desirability in Stevenson Ranch, CA. The community is primarily served by the William S. Hart Union High School District and the Newhall School District, both of which are well‑regarded within Los Angeles County.

Families are often drawn to Stevenson Ranch specifically for its highly rated public schools, strong test scores, and active parent communities. While ratings can change over time, the following schools are frequently mentioned as strengths of the area:

School Level Key Highlights
Stevenson Ranch Elementary School Elementary Consistently strong test scores, highly involved community, convenient central location
Pico Canyon Elementary School (Nearby) Elementary Another strong option serving portions of the Stevenson Ranch area
Rancho Pico Junior High School Middle Modern campus facilities and a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs
West Ranch High School High School Highly regarded for academics, athletics, and college‑prep opportunities

The strength of the local school system is closely tied to the cost of housing in Stevenson Ranch, CA. Higher property values support well‑funded schools, and the reputation of those schools in turn sustains demand for homes. For families with school‑age children, this can make Stevenson Ranch an especially compelling, though more expensive, choice within the Santa Clarita Valley.

Living In Stevenson Ranch CA Is It Worth The Cost

When weighing salaries against the cost of living in Stevenson Ranch, CA, many residents conclude that the community offers a strong overall value, particularly for families and professionals seeking excellent schools, a safe environment, and a suburban lifestyle close to Los Angeles. High household incomes help offset elevated home prices, and the area’s master‑planned layout, parks, and services add to its appeal.

If you are considering a move, it is wise to compare your current salary to typical earnings in Stevenson Ranch, carefully evaluate housing options, and factor in commuting and lifestyle expenses. By aligning your income, budget, and priorities, you can determine whether the salary and cost of living in Stevenson Ranch, CA fit your long‑term financial and personal goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Stevenson Ranch, CA

What is Stevenson Ranch, CA known for?

Stevenson Ranch is known for its master-planned residential communities, highly rated public schools, and family-friendly atmosphere. Located just west of Santa Clarita, it offers well-maintained neighborhoods, community parks, and convenient access to shopping centers, restaurants, and major freeways. Many residents appreciate the suburban feel with proximity to employment centers in the greater Los Angeles area, as well as its reputation for being clean, relatively quiet, and safety-focused.

How are the schools in Stevenson Ranch?

Schools in Stevenson Ranch are generally regarded as some of the strongest in the Santa Clarita Valley. The area is served by the Newhall School District and the William S. Hart Union High School District, with several elementary and middle schools that consistently receive high ratings for academic performance, teacher quality, and parent involvement. West Ranch High School, which serves many Stevenson Ranch students, is also well-regarded for its academic programs, extracurricular activities, and college preparation resources, making the area attractive to families prioritizing education.

What is the cost of living like in Stevenson Ranch?

The cost of living in Stevenson Ranch is higher than both the national average and many other parts of California, largely due to home prices and rents. Housing costs reflect the area’s strong school districts, desirable location, and limited land for new development. Everyday expenses such as groceries, transportation, and utilities are generally in line with the broader Los Angeles County region, but residents should expect housing to be the largest portion of their budget. Many people find the higher costs justified by the quality of life, schools, and community amenities.

What is the commute and transportation situation in Stevenson Ranch?

Stevenson Ranch is situated near Interstate 5, providing relatively straightforward freeway access to the San Fernando Valley, downtown Los Angeles, and other employment hubs. However, commute times can be affected by peak-hour traffic on the I-5 and connecting routes. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, as public transit options within Stevenson Ranch itself are limited. Nearby Santa Clarita offers Metrolink rail service and additional bus routes, which some residents use for commuting to central Los Angeles or other parts of the region.

What amenities and lifestyle can residents expect in Stevenson Ranch?

Residents of Stevenson Ranch can expect a suburban lifestyle with convenient access to parks, playgrounds, and walking paths woven throughout the community. The area includes neighborhood shopping centers with grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops, fitness facilities, and everyday services. Larger retail areas and entertainment options are available nearby in Santa Clarita, including movie theaters, the Westfield Valencia Town Center, and recreational facilities. The community’s proximity to outdoor destinations, such as local hiking trails and the broader Santa Clarita Valley, supports an active lifestyle, while its generally low crime rates and community-oriented events appeal to families and professionals seeking a stable, comfortable environment.

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