Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Westlake Village, CA

Last Updated: November 30, 2025By Tags:
Westlake Village, CA

Salary And Cost Of Living In Westlake Village CA

Located along the border of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, Westlake Village, CA is known for its scenic setting, master‑planned neighborhoods, and strong community amenities. As a result, many professionals and families explore this area to understand if salaries align with the local cost of living. In what follows, we will examine the average salary, overall cost of living, home values, rents, neighborhoods, and schools in Westlake Village, California, helping you decide whether this community fits your financial and lifestyle goals.

Average Salary In Westlake Village CA

Westlake Village has a relatively affluent workforce, with many residents employed in professional services, healthcare, finance, technology, and entertainment-related industries. While exact numbers can vary by source and year, it is reasonable to categorize earnings in Westlake Village as above both the California and U.S. averages.

Below is an illustrative overview of income levels often seen in the Westlake Village area:

Income Metric – Westlake Village CA Estimated Amount (Annual) Notes
Typical Individual Salary $65,000 – $85,000 Applies to many mid‑career professionals
Typical Household Income $130,000 – $180,000+ Often dual‑income professional households
High‑Earning Professionals $200,000+ Executives, specialists, and business owners

Many residents commuting to Los Angeles, Thousand Oaks, or nearby corporate hubs benefit from higher regional salaries while enjoying the quieter lifestyle of Westlake Village, CA. This income profile directly influences housing demand and the general cost of living, which we will examine next.

Cost Of Living In Westlake Village CA

The cost of living in Westlake Village, CA is significantly higher than the national average, primarily due to housing, transportation, and services. Compared with other communities in Ventura and Los Angeles counties, Westlake Village often falls in the upper tier for overall living expenses.

The following chart-style table provides a comparative sense of how Westlake Village stacks up using the U.S. average as a baseline (100):

Cost Category Westlake Village CA Index* U.S. Average Index
Overall Cost Of Living 170 – 190 100
Housing 220 – 260 100
Groceries 115 – 125 100
Transportation 120 – 135 100
Healthcare 105 – 115 100
Utilities 100 – 110 100

*Index values are approximate and for illustrative comparison only.

Housing is the single largest driver of the elevated cost of living in Westlake Village, CA. Day‑to‑day expenses such as groceries, dining out, and services are also somewhat higher than average, reflecting the area’s affluent consumer base. For residents with strong incomes, these costs are manageable, but prospective movers should budget carefully, especially if transitioning from a lower-cost state.

Average Home Values And Rents In Westlake Village CA

Real estate in Westlake Village is highly sought after due to its planned communities, proximity to employment centers, and strong schools. Home values have historically trended upward, supported by limited inventory and strong demand from professionals and families.

Below is a snapshot of typical home values and rental ranges in Westlake Village, California:

Property Type – Westlake Village CA Typical Price / Rent Range Description
Condominiums / Townhomes $750,000 – $1,100,000+ (purchase) Often in gated or amenity‑rich communities
Single‑Family Homes $1,200,000 – $2,000,000+ (purchase) Commonly 3–5 bedrooms with yards or views
Luxury Estates / Lakefront $2,500,000 – $5,000,000+ (purchase) Custom homes, large lots, and prime locations
1‑Bedroom Apartment $2,500 – $3,200 per month (rent) Appeals to singles and couples
2–3 Bedroom Apartment / Townhome $3,200 – $4,500+ per month (rent) Popular with young families and relocating professionals

Homeownership in Westlake Village, CA typically requires a substantial down payment and strong income qualifications. However, buyers benefit from attractive neighborhoods, stable property values, and the overall prestige of the community. Renters, meanwhile, enjoy flexibility but must be prepared for premium monthly rates compared with many other Southern California suburbs.

Best Neighborhoods In Westlake Village CA

Westlake Village, California is made up of several well‑designed neighborhoods, each offering a unique blend of amenities, architecture, and lifestyle. When considering where to live, it is helpful to compare areas by environment, housing style, and price point.

Neighborhood – Westlake Village CA Key Features Typical Appeal
North Ranch (adjacent area often associated with Westlake) Golf course views, large custom homes, tree‑lined streets Buyers seeking luxury properties and a country‑club feel
Westlake Island Private, guard‑gated community on Westlake Lake High‑end buyers who value lakefront living and exclusivity
First Neighborhood Original master‑planned section, central location, parks and greenbelts Families who want walkability, community pools, and schools nearby
Southshore / Lakeside Areas Proximity to lake, shops, and restaurants Residents who enjoy waterfront ambiance and convenient amenities
Westlake Trails & Westlake Hills Hillside homes, larger lots, and scenic canyon views Buyers looking for privacy and a more natural setting

Choosing the best neighborhood in Westlake Village, CA depends heavily on lifestyle priorities. Those who value walkable access to shops and dining may favor central or lakeside areas, while buyers seeking seclusion and larger properties often gravitate toward hillside or golf course communities. Working with a local real estate professional can help narrow down the best fit for your budget and preferences.

Schools In Westlake Village CA

Schools are a major reason many families relocate to Westlake Village, CA. The city is primarily served by the Las Virgenes Unified School District (LVUSD) and neighboring districts, which are widely recognized for strong academic programs, competitive test scores, and robust extracurricular opportunities.

Below is a high‑level overview of school options typically associated with Westlake Village:

School Type – Westlake Village CA Examples Highlights
Elementary Schools White Oak Elementary, Westlake Elementary (nearby campuses) Strong foundational programs, active parent involvement
Middle Schools Lindero Canyon Middle School, Colina Middle (nearby) Advanced classes, arts and athletics programs
High Schools Westlake High School, Agoura High School (district schools) College‑prep curriculum, AP courses, diverse sports and clubs
Private & Independent Schools Oaks Christian School, St. Jude, other local academies Faith‑based or specialized programs with smaller class sizes

Families frequently cite education quality as a key factor in paying Westlake Village’s premium housing costs. With reputable public and private options, students benefit from a supportive academic environment, strong extracurricular pathways, and convenient access to community resources like parks, libraries, and youth sports.

Living In Westlake Village CA Is It Worth The Cost

When considering the salary and cost of living in Westlake Village, CA, the picture that emerges is one of a high‑end, family‑oriented community with commensurately high expenses. Residents typically enjoy elevated incomes, attractive neighborhoods, high-performing schools, and access to both nature and urban job centers. At the same time, housing prices, rents, and daily costs sit well above national norms.

For professionals and families with stable, above‑average earnings, Westlake Village, California can offer an exceptional quality of life—beautiful surroundings, a strong sense of community, and a convenient location near Thousand Oaks, Malibu, and greater Los Angeles. However, those on more modest incomes may find that the financial tradeoffs are challenging, particularly when it comes to purchasing a home or managing long‑term rental costs.

Ultimately, the decision to move to or remain in Westlake Village hinges on aligning your career, salary expectations, lifestyle preferences, and housing budget. By understanding the local salary ranges, cost of living, real estate market, neighborhoods, and schools, you can make a well‑informed choice about whether Westlake Village, CA is the right Southern California community for you.

Living in Westlake Village, CA – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall lifestyle like in Westlake Village, CA?

Westlake Village offers a quiet, suburban lifestyle with a strong emphasis on community, safety, and outdoor recreation. The area is known for its tree-lined streets, well-maintained neighborhoods, and proximity to both the Santa Monica Mountains and the coast. Residents enjoy a slower pace compared with Los Angeles, but still benefit from convenient access to major freeways, shopping, dining, and professional services. The community tends to be family-oriented and attracts professionals, retirees, and those seeking a balance between urban amenities and a more relaxed environment.

How does the cost of living and housing compare to nearby areas?

Westlake Village has a relatively high cost of living compared with many other parts of Ventura and Los Angeles counties. Housing prices and rents are typically above regional averages, reflecting the area’s desirability, low crime rates, and strong schools. Single-family homes, gated communities, and townhomes are common, with some properties offering lake or golf course views. While housing is the largest expense, residents often consider the cost worthwhile for the overall quality of life, community amenities, and stable property values.

What are the schools and educational options like in Westlake Village?

Westlake Village is known for its highly regarded public schools, which are primarily served by the Conejo Valley Unified School District and, in some areas, the Las Virgenes Unified School District. These districts consistently receive strong academic ratings, with a variety of Advanced Placement and extracurricular programs. In addition to public schools, there are several respected private and parochial school options in and around the city. Nearby colleges and universities, including California Lutheran University and Pepperdine University (in Malibu), provide higher education opportunities within a reasonable commute.

What types of recreation and outdoor activities are available?

Residents of Westlake Village have access to extensive outdoor and recreational activities. The area features numerous parks, hiking and biking trails, and open-space preserves within the Santa Monica Mountains. Westlake Lake, a private man-made lake, offers boating for residents with permitted access. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy local country clubs and public courses, while nearby Malibu beaches provide opportunities for swimming, surfing, and coastal walks. Community fitness centers, tennis courts, and organized sports leagues further support an active lifestyle throughout the year, thanks to the region’s mild Mediterranean climate.

How is the commute and access to major employment centers?

Westlake Village is conveniently located near the 101 Freeway, providing direct access to the San Fernando Valley, downtown Los Angeles, and Ventura County. Many residents work in nearby business parks, professional offices, and healthcare facilities in Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, and Agoura Hills. Commuting to central Los Angeles is possible but can be time-consuming during peak traffic hours. For those who frequently travel, the area is within reasonable driving distance of Burbank and Los Angeles International Airports. Overall, residents find the location favorable for balancing local employment opportunities with access to larger metropolitan job markets.

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