Cost of Living in Altadena, CA
Population 41,921 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Housing in Altadena sits 252% above the national median — $1.1 million for the typical home — but median household incomes near $129,123 (73% above the US figure) soften the blow that similar pricing creates in lower-wage metros. Unemployment has stayed elevated relative to the national figure — 7.3% as of the most recent ACS release — which shows up in household-income and poverty figures as well.
Located <5 miles north of Pasadena, Altadena falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Housing prices track closely with Pasadena's $1 million median.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Altadena
The median home value in Altadena is $1,073,500 — 252% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,250/month, 71% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $129,123/year is 73% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.3%, above the national average of 4.8%. California's top state income tax rate is 13.3% and the combined sales tax is 8.7%. Overall, Altadena has a cost of living index of 280 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 180% more expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Altadena, CA?
Altadena has a cost index of 280 (100 = national average). It is 180% above the national average.
What is average rent in Altadena, CA?
The median gross rent in Altadena is $2,250 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Altadena?
The median home value in Altadena is $1,073,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Altadena?
The median household income in Altadena is $129,123 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Altadena, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Altadena is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is Altadena, CA affordable?
Altadena is above average in cost of living, with an index of 280 — about 180% higher than the national average.
Altadena at a Glance
- Population
- 41,921
- Median Income
- $129,123
- Home Value
- $1,073,500
- Median Rent
- $2,250/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.3%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
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California Rankings
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