Tujunga CA Salary And Cost Of Living Overview

Tujunga, CA, nestled in the northeastern corner of Los Angeles, offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and access to big-city amenities. As more families and professionals consider moving to this foothill community, understanding the salary trends, cost of living, housing market, neighborhoods, and schools in Tujunga, CA becomes essential. This guide provides a clear, data-informed overview to help residents and newcomers make confident financial and lifestyle decisions.

Tujunga CA Average Salary

Because Tujunga is part of the larger Los Angeles area, local earnings are closely tied to the broader regional job market. Workers often commute to nearby employment centers such as Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, and downtown Los Angeles, while enjoying quieter residential life in Tujunga.

Estimated average salaries in Tujunga, CA (modeled on typical Los Angeles area data) are as follows:

Position / Category	Estimated Annual Salary (Tujunga CA Area)
Overall Average Salary	$60,000 – $70,000
Administrative / Office Support	$40,000 – $55,000
Education / Social Services	$50,000 – $70,000
Healthcare Professionals	$70,000 – $110,000
Technology / Engineering	$90,000 – $140,000
Skilled Trades	$50,000 – $75,000

While high-paying jobs in technology, entertainment, healthcare, and professional services are often located outside Tujunga proper, the neighborhood’s location along the 210 freeway makes commuting relatively convenient. As you evaluate job offers, it is important to compare your potential salary to the local cost of living and housing expenses in Tujunga, CA.

Tujunga CA Cost Of Living

The cost of living in Tujunga, CA is generally lower than in many central Los Angeles neighborhoods, but it is still significantly above the national average. Housing is the primary driver of costs, followed by transportation and everyday expenses such as groceries and utilities.

The table below provides an approximate comparison of cost of living indices (with 100 representing the U.S. average):

Category	Tujunga CA Index	Los Angeles Metro Index	U.S. Average
Overall Cost Of Living	145 – 155	150 – 165	100
Housing	180 – 200	190 – 220	100
Groceries	110 – 115	110 – 120	100
Transportation	130 – 140	135 – 145	100
Utilities	105 – 115	105 – 115	100
Healthcare	105 – 115	105 – 115	100

In practical terms, everyday expenses in Tujunga, CA such as groceries and dining out are somewhat higher than the national average, but they may feel manageable if your salary is aligned with typical Southern California pay scales. Many residents find that the slightly lower housing costs compared with central Los Angeles help balance out other expenses, especially for families seeking more space and access to nature in the nearby Angeles National Forest.

Tujunga CA Average Home Values And Rents

The housing market in Tujunga, CA is characterized by a mix of older single-family homes, modest bungalows, townhomes, and smaller apartment buildings. Homebuyers are often drawn to the area for its mountain views, larger lots, and comparatively quieter streets.

Below is an approximate snapshot of average home values and rental prices in Tujunga, CA based on recent regional patterns:

Property Type	Estimated Price / Rent
Median Single-Family Home Value	$850,000 – $950,000
Typical 2-Bedroom Condo / Townhome	$550,000 – $700,000
Average 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent	$1,800 – $2,200 per month
Average 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent	$2,200 – $2,800 per month
Average 3-Bedroom House Rent	$3,000 – $3,800 per month

To visualize the relative differences in typical monthly housing costs in Tujunga, CA, review the chart below:

Housing Type	Approx. Monthly Cost
1-Bedroom Apartment Rent	$1,800 – $2,200
2-Bedroom Apartment Rent	$2,200 – $2,800
3-Bedroom House Rent	$3,000 – $3,800
Monthly Mortgage (Median Home, 20% Down)	$4,000 – $4,800 (approx., including taxes/insurance)

Because prices and rents evolve quickly, buyers and renters in Tujunga, CA should work with a local real estate professional and closely monitor current listings. Acting quickly on well-priced homes and rentals can be important in this competitive Southern California housing environment.

Best Neighborhoods In Tujunga CA

Tujunga, CA is largely residential, with several micro-neighborhoods that offer different lifestyles, lot sizes, and price points. While boundaries are informal, the following areas are commonly mentioned by residents and real estate agents:

Neighborhood / Area	Key Features
Upper Tujunga Foothills	Scenic hillside homes, larger lots, views of the San Gabriel Mountains, a more secluded feel, and quick access to hiking and outdoor recreation.
Central Tujunga	Closer to Foothill Boulevard with convenient access to shops, services, and transit; mix of single-family homes and small multifamily buildings.
Sunland–Tujunga Border Areas	Blend of Tujunga and neighboring Sunland, offering slightly more affordable housing options and community parks.
Near La Crescenta & Shadow Hills	Residential pockets on the edges of Tujunga often attract buyers seeking a semi-rural, equestrian, or larger-lot lifestyle with a suburban feel.

When searching for the best neighborhoods in Tujunga, CA, consider factors such as commute times, proximity to schools, access to local parks like Verdugo Mountains open space, and your desired balance between a quiet residential atmosphere and convenience to daily amenities.

Schools In Tujunga CA

Families evaluating the cost of living in Tujunga, CA also carefully review local school options. Tujunga is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and offers access to public, charter, and private educational choices in the broader Sunland–Tujunga and foothill region.

Below is an overview of some schools serving Tujunga, CA residents (offerings and boundaries can change, so always confirm with LAUSD and the individual schools):

School	Type / Grades	Notes
Pinewood Avenue Elementary School	Public, K–5	Neighborhood elementary school serving many local Tujunga families.
Mt. Gleason Middle School	Public, 6–8	Middle school option in the Sunland–Tujunga area, with academic and extracurricular programs.
Verdugo Hills High School	Public, 9–12	Local high school serving Tujunga and surrounding communities; offers various college-prep and career pathways.
Alliance and Other LAUSD Charters	Public Charter, Various Grades	Some charter schools in the broader region accept students from Tujunga, CA via application and lottery.
Private & Parochial Schools (Nearby)	Private, K–12	Families may consider schools in La Crescenta, Glendale, and Burbank for additional private education options.

School quality in Tujunga, CA can vary by program and campus, so families are encouraged to review up-to-date ratings, visit school websites, and schedule tours. Factoring in school preferences along with housing costs and commute routes is an important part of planning a move or relocation within Tujunga.

Living In Tujunga CA Balancing Salary And Lifestyle

Overall, living in Tujunga, CA offers a distinctive balance of suburban comfort, access to nature, and connectivity to the larger Los Angeles job market. While the cost of living and housing prices in Tujunga are higher than national averages, they can be more attainable than many central LA neighborhoods, especially for those prioritizing space, quieter streets, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

By carefully assessing average salaries, housing costs, neighborhood options, and school choices in Tujunga, CA, individuals and families can create a realistic budget and lifestyle plan. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer seeking a foothill property, a renter searching for a more tranquil community, or a professional balancing commute times with outdoor recreation, Tujunga provides a compelling option in the northeast San Fernando Valley.

As you take the next steps—researching jobs, touring neighborhoods, or comparing school districts—keep these financial and lifestyle factors in mind. With thoughtful planning, Tujunga, CA can offer a rewarding blend of affordability, community, and natural beauty within the greater Los Angeles area.