Cost of Living in South Pasadena, CA
Population 26,297 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Housing prices in South Pasadena cluster toward the top of the US distribution — a median of $1.5 million, roughly 5 times the national figure, consistent with markets dominated by nonresident and vacation-home buyers.
South Pasadena is part of the immediate Pasadena metro area — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 48% higher than Pasadena's $1 million.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in South Pasadena
The median home value in South Pasadena is $1,545,100 — 407% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,218/month, 69% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $128,105/year is 72% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.8%, 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, South Pasadena has a cost of living index of 371 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 271% 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 South Pasadena, CA?
South Pasadena has a cost index of 371 (100 = national average). It is 271% above the national average.
What is average rent in South Pasadena, CA?
The median gross rent in South Pasadena is $2,218 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in South Pasadena?
The median home value in South Pasadena is $1,545,100 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in South Pasadena?
The median household income in South Pasadena is $128,105 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in South Pasadena, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in South Pasadena is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is South Pasadena, CA affordable?
South Pasadena is above average in cost of living, with an index of 371 — about 271% higher than the national average.
South Pasadena at a Glance
- Population
- 26,297
- Median Income
- $128,105
- Home Value
- $1,545,100
- Median Rent
- $2,218/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.8%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data