Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Walnut Park, CA
Walnut Park, CA


Salary And Cost Of Living In Walnut Park CA
Walnut Park, CA is a compact, predominantly residential community located in southeast Los Angeles County. As part of the broader Los Angeles metro area, Walnut Park offers access to major employment centers, cultural amenities, and transportation routes, while retaining a more neighborhood-oriented feel. For individuals and families considering a move, understanding the salary levels, cost of living, housing market, and schools in Walnut Park, CA is essential for making an informed decision. The following guide provides a detailed, locally focused overview designed to help you determine whether Walnut Park fits your lifestyle and budget.
Average Salary In Walnut Park CA
Because Walnut Park is a small, unincorporated area, salary data is often grouped with surrounding communities and the Los Angeles metro region. Even so, it is possible to estimate the average salary in Walnut Park, CA based on regional trends and nearby labor statistics.
Many residents work in sectors such as retail, logistics and warehousing, healthcare support, construction, hospitality, and service industries, while a portion commute to central Los Angeles for professional and technical jobs. The table below summarizes approximate income levels for Walnut Park and the broader area:
| Income Metric | Estimated Amount (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Estimated Median Household Income – Walnut Park Area | $55,000 – $65,000 |
| Estimated Per Capita Income – Walnut Park Area | $18,000 – $22,000 |
| Typical Entry-Level Service Job (Hourly) | $17 – $20 per hour |
| Skilled Trades / Technical Roles (Hourly) | $25 – $35 per hour |
| Professional Roles in Greater Los Angeles (Annual) | $70,000 – $110,000+ |
These figures suggest that while salaries in Walnut Park, CA tend to be modest compared with some higher-income parts of Los Angeles County, residents can often access better-paying opportunities by commuting to nearby commercial and industrial centers. Over time, improvements in transportation and regional employment may influence local wage trends as well.
Cost Of Living In Walnut Park CA
The cost of living in Walnut Park, CA is strongly shaped by its position within the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Housing is typically the largest expense, followed by transportation, food, and healthcare. Relative to many neighborhoods closer to downtown or the Westside, Walnut Park can be somewhat more affordable, but it is still subject to Southern California’s generally high cost structure.
The comparative chart below offers a simplified view of how Walnut Park’s cost of living aligns with the U.S. average and Los Angeles County overall (U.S. average indexed at 100):
| Category | Walnut Park CA | Los Angeles County CA | U.S. Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost Of Living Index | 135 – 145 | 145 – 155 | 100 |
| Housing | 170 – 185 | 190 – 210 | 100 |
| Transportation | 130 – 140 | 135 – 145 | 100 |
| Groceries | 110 – 120 | 115 – 125 | 100 |
| Healthcare | 100 – 110 | 105 – 115 | 100 |
| Utilities | 95 – 105 | 95 – 105 | 100 |
From this comparison, it becomes clear that housing and transportation are the main drivers of higher living expenses in Walnut Park, CA. However, daily needs like groceries and utilities remain closer to national norms, which can help moderate the overall budget for residents who manage housing costs effectively.
Average Home Values And Rents In Walnut Park CA
The housing market in Walnut Park, CA is dominated by single-family homes, small multifamily properties, and a selection of rental units. Demand is influenced by proximity to Los Angeles, local schools, and easy access to major roadways such as the 110 and 710 freeways. As with many communities in Los Angeles County, home prices have risen over the past decade.
The following table highlights approximate average home values and rents in Walnut Park, CA and its surrounding markets:
| Housing Metric | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Median Single-Family Home Value – Walnut Park CA | $550,000 – $650,000 |
| Median Condo / Townhome Value – Nearby Communities | $450,000 – $550,000 |
| Typical 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent – Walnut Park Area | $1,600 – $1,900 per month |
| Typical 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent – Walnut Park Area | $2,000 – $2,400 per month |
| Typical 3-Bedroom Single-Family Rental – Walnut Park Area | $2,600 – $3,200 per month |
While these ranges can shift with market conditions, they show that Walnut Park, CA offers somewhat more attainable prices than some of Los Angeles’s higher-demand neighborhoods, yet still follows overall Southern California pricing trends. Prospective buyers and renters should factor in property taxes, insurance, and utility costs when evaluating their long-term housing budget.
Best Neighborhoods In Walnut Park CA
Because Walnut Park, CA is a relatively small and dense community, its “neighborhoods” are often described in terms of key streets, proximity to parks, and access to main corridors. Even so, certain pockets tend to be especially attractive based on housing stock, local amenities, and overall feel.
| Area | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Central Walnut Park CA | Characterized by modest single-family homes and duplexes on residential streets. Offers walkable access to local shops, restaurants, and community services. Popular with families seeking a neighborhood-oriented environment. |
| Walnut Park Bordering Huntington Park CA | Provides quick access to additional retail, dining, and employment options across the city line. Appealing to commuters who use nearby major thoroughfares and public transit connections. |
| Areas Near Local Schools In Walnut Park CA | Blocks surrounding elementary and middle schools tend to be especially community-focused. These streets often see higher demand among families who value short walks to school and local parks. |
| Residential Pockets Near Major Corridors | Homes located near Slauson Avenue or Pacific Boulevard offer strong transportation links and proximity to commercial services, while still maintaining a residential atmosphere just off the main roads. |
When exploring the best neighborhoods in Walnut Park, CA, it is wise to visit at different times of day, talk with residents when possible, and evaluate commute times to workplaces in downtown Los Angeles, nearby industrial zones, or other parts of the county. This on-the-ground research will give you a better sense of which area best matches your daily needs.
Schools In Walnut Park CA
Families considering a move often place a high priority on schools in Walnut Park, CA. The community is served by local public school districts in southeast Los Angeles County, along with access to charter and private school options in the broader region. Educational quality, class sizes, and extracurricular offerings vary by campus, so examining each school individually is essential.
| School Level | Options In And Around Walnut Park CA |
|---|---|
| Elementary Schools | Local public elementary schools serve younger children in Walnut Park, CA, often offering bilingual programs, after-school care, and community-oriented events. Many families prioritize proximity and a strong sense of neighborhood connection. |
| Middle Schools | Nearby middle schools provide core academic subjects, arts and athletics. Families should review school performance metrics, available programs, and transportation routes when evaluating options. |
| High Schools | High school students in Walnut Park, CA typically attend nearby comprehensive high schools or specialized magnet programs in the greater Los Angeles area. These campuses may offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, career-technical pathways, and extracurricular clubs. |
| Charter And Private Schools | The surrounding Los Angeles region includes a variety of charter and private schools, some with specific focuses such as college preparation, STEM, or arts. These can be strong alternatives for families seeking particular academic environments. |
To make the best decision, families are encouraged to visit official district websites, review state assessment data, tour campuses when possible, and speak with other parents living in Walnut Park, CA. Combining quantitative data with personal impressions allows for a more complete picture of educational opportunities.
Living In Walnut Park CA Is It Right For You
Deciding whether to live in Walnut Park, CA involves balancing salary expectations, cost of living, housing choices, and school options. The community offers the advantages of a neighborhood-focused environment and relatively more attainable housing than some higher-cost Los Angeles areas, yet it still reflects the broader region’s elevated pricing for homes and rentals. Residents often rely on a mix of local employment and commuting to other parts of the metro area to secure higher-paying jobs.
For individuals and families looking for a compact community with strong ties to greater Los Angeles, Walnut Park, CA can be a practical and appealing choice. By carefully evaluating average salaries, monthly housing expenses, transportation needs, and school quality, you can determine whether Walnut Park aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle preferences. Over time, continued regional growth, transportation improvements, and evolving job markets may further shape the experience of living in Walnut Park, CA, making now an important time to research and plan your next move.


Living in Walnut Park, CA: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Walnut Park, CA like as a place to live?
Walnut Park is a small, urban, unincorporated community in southeast Los Angeles County. It offers a dense residential environment with a strong neighborhood feel, convenient access to major freeways, and close proximity to nearby cities such as Huntington Park, South Gate, and Los Angeles. The area is largely residential with local shops, schools, and services within a short drive, making it suitable for individuals and families who value convenience and community-oriented living in a city-adjacent setting.
How affordable is housing in Walnut Park, CA?
Housing in Walnut Park is generally more affordable than many central Los Angeles neighborhoods, though prices have risen along with broader Southern California market trends. The community is dominated by modest single-family homes, small apartment buildings, and duplexes. Renters will find a range of older but functional units, while buyers may find entry-level homes that can be more accessible compared to nearby urban markets. Actual costs vary based on property size, condition, and proximity to main streets, so prospective residents should review current local listings and consider property taxes, utilities, and insurance when budgeting.
What are the commute and transportation options in Walnut Park, CA?
Walnut Park is well-situated for commuters, with convenient access to nearby freeways and major surface streets that connect to downtown Los Angeles and surrounding cities. Public transportation is available through local bus routes operated by LA Metro and other regional providers, offering connections to employment centers, schools, and transit hubs. Walking and driving are the most common ways to get around for daily errands, while rideshare services are widely available. Residents who work in central Los Angeles, the South Bay, or the industrial corridors of southeast LA County often find Walnut Park to be a practical home base, though traffic congestion during peak hours should be expected.
What schools and educational resources serve Walnut Park, CA residents?
Walnut Park is served by public schools in the surrounding districts, offering elementary, middle, and high school options within a short distance of most homes. Many families rely on nearby neighborhood schools, charter schools, and specialized programs in adjacent communities. In addition, a number of community colleges and vocational programs are located within a reasonable commute, providing options for higher education and career training. Because Walnut Park is unincorporated, school boundaries and assignments are determined by the relevant school districts, so prospective residents should confirm specific school zones and performance data for their address of interest.
What amenities, services, and lifestyle features are available in Walnut Park, CA?
Residents of Walnut Park have access to everyday conveniences such as grocery stores, small retailers, restaurants, and personal services in and around the community. Parks and recreational spaces in Walnut Park and neighboring cities offer places for outdoor activities, youth sports, and community events. Health care and professional services are available through local clinics, medical offices, and nearby hospitals in the greater Los Angeles area. The lifestyle in Walnut Park tends to be community-focused and family-oriented, with many residents appreciating the ability to live in a smaller, neighborhood-style setting while still being close to the cultural, employment, and entertainment opportunities of the Los Angeles region.
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