Salary And Cost Of Living In Temple City CA

Temple City, CA is a small, family-oriented community in the San Gabriel Valley, known for its strong schools, diverse population, and convenient access to Los Angeles. For anyone considering moving to or working in the area, understanding the salary expectations and cost of living in Temple City, CA is essential. The city’s proximity to major employment centers means residents often balance higher housing costs with competitive regional wages. Below, we explore average salaries, everyday expenses, housing markets, top neighborhoods, and schools to give you a clear financial picture of life in Temple City, California.

Average Salary In Temple City CA

Salaries in Temple City are influenced heavily by its position within the Greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. Many residents work in nearby cities such as Pasadena, Alhambra, Arcadia, and downtown Los Angeles, which helps sustain relatively strong income levels. While exact figures vary by profession, it is helpful to look at ranges to understand what workers typically earn in and around Temple City, CA.

Typical annual income ranges for common roles in Temple City and nearby areas:

Job Category	Typical Salary Range (Annual)
Administrative / Office Support	$40,000 – $55,000
Retail & Customer Service	$35,000 – $50,000
Education & Teaching	$55,000 – $85,000
Healthcare (Nurses, Technicians)	$70,000 – $110,000
Technology & Engineering	$85,000 – $140,000+
Professional Services (Legal, Finance)	$80,000 – $150,000+

When compared with national averages, earnings near Temple City, CA tend to be higher, reflecting both the strong regional economy and the elevated costs of housing and services. As a result, many residents find that higher paychecks are necessary to comfortably manage local living expenses.

Cost Of Living In Temple City CA

The overall cost of living in Temple City, California is significantly above the national average, primarily due to housing prices, transportation costs, and certain local services. However, compared with some of the most expensive parts of Los Angeles, Temple City can feel relatively manageable while still providing excellent access to jobs and amenities.

Key monthly expenses for a typical household in Temple City, CA may include:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1–2 Bedroom)	$2,200 – $3,200+	Varies by neighborhood and building age
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Trash)	$150 – $250	Higher for larger single-family homes
Internet & Streaming	$70 – $130	Depends on speed and bundle
Groceries & Household Items	$500 – $900	For a typical 2–3 person household
Transportation (Car, Gas, Insurance)	$350 – $700	Highly dependent on commute distance
Dining & Entertainment	$200 – $500	Varies greatly by lifestyle

While higher costs can initially seem daunting, residents often find that the quality of local schools, neighborhood safety, and community amenities in Temple City, CA can justify the investment. Moreover, sharing housing, careful budgeting, and working in higher-paying industries can help balance the financial picture.

Average Home Values And Rents In Temple City CA

Temple City is known for its stable, well-maintained neighborhoods and strong owner-occupancy rates. As a result, home values in Temple City, CA tend to be higher than the U.S. median, reflecting both demand and limited supply. At the same time, rental options range from older apartment buildings to newer townhomes and single-family rentals.

Below is a simplified snapshot of current housing trends in Temple City, California:

Housing Metric	Estimated Value / Range
Median Single-Family Home Value	$900,000 – $1,200,000+
Median Condo / Townhome Value	$650,000 – $850,000
Average 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent	$1,900 – $2,400 per month
Average 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent	$2,400 – $3,000 per month
Average Single-Family Home Rent	$3,000 – $4,500+ per month

To illustrate how housing and salary expectations interact in Temple City, CA, the chart below compares approximate annual housing costs with mid-range salaries:

Scenario	Approx. Annual Housing Cost	Recommended Household Income
Renting 1-Bedroom Apartment	$24,000 – $28,800	$70,000 – $90,000
Renting 3-Bedroom Home	$36,000 – $54,000	$110,000 – $150,000+
Owning Median-Priced Home (Mortgage, Taxes, Insurance)	$48,000 – $72,000	$140,000 – $200,000+

These figures underscore the importance of careful financial planning for those planning to settle in Temple City, CA’s competitive housing market.

Best Neighborhoods In Temple City CA

Temple City is relatively compact, but it offers several distinct residential pockets that appeal to different lifestyles. Overall, the city is known for quiet streets, mature trees, and a strong sense of community. When exploring the best neighborhoods in Temple City, CA, consider schools, walkability, and proximity to major routes such as the I-10 and I-210 freeways.

Some of the most sought-after areas within Temple City, California include:

Neighborhood / Area	Key Features	Typical Home Prices
North Temple City	Quiet residential streets, close to Arcadia border, strong school proximity	Often at or above city median; many upgraded single-family homes
Central Temple City (Downtown Core)	Near shopping, restaurants, parks, civic center; more walkable	Mix of older homes and small multifamily; moderate to high pricing
South Temple City	Convenient access to major roads, mix of long-time residents and newer buyers	Can offer relatively better value while still in Temple City schools

Because Temple City, CA is known for stability and community pride, even more affordable streets typically maintain good curb appeal. Potential buyers and renters often compare Temple City to neighboring Arcadia, San Gabriel, and Rosemead when evaluating value and lifestyle.

Schools And Education In Temple City CA

Schools are one of the primary reasons families choose to live in Temple City. The Temple City Unified School District (TCUSD) is well regarded in the San Gabriel Valley for academic performance, extracurricular programs, and community involvement. Strong schools often support robust property values, meaning that the educational quality in Temple City, CA directly influences both salaries and the cost of living.

Below is an overview of key educational options serving Temple City residents:

School Type	Examples In Or Near Temple City CA	Notable Features
Elementary Schools	Emperor Elementary, Longden Elementary, Cloverly Elementary	Strong test scores, active parent communities, neighborhood-based campuses
Middle School	Oak Avenue Intermediate School	Focus on academic preparation for high school, diverse programs
High School	Temple City High School	Known for academics, music and arts programs, athletics, and college prep
Private & Parochial Schools	Various small private academies in the San Gabriel Valley	Alternative curricula and religious-based education options

Because of the strong reputation of Temple City schools, demand for housing within district boundaries remains consistently high. For families evaluating the trade-off between salary, cost of living, and educational opportunities, Temple City often ranks as a top choice in the region.

Living Comfortably In Temple City CA

Temple City, CA offers a compelling balance of suburban tranquility and metropolitan access. While housing and overall living expenses are higher than the national average, many residents feel the investment is justified by strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and the ability to commute to major employment centers across Los Angeles County. By understanding typical salaries, home values, and everyday costs, newcomers can plan realistically and make informed decisions.

Ultimately, living comfortably in Temple City, California often requires a combination of stable income, thoughtful budgeting, and long-term planning. For professionals, families, and retirees who value education, community, and convenience, Temple City remains one of the more attractive small-city options in the San Gabriel Valley.