Cost of Living in South Whittier, CA
Population 55,201 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Home prices in South Whittier run well above the national baseline, with a median of $642,000, though local incomes keep the cost-to-earnings ratio tighter than in coastal metros with comparable sticker prices. Median household earnings of $98,974 place the city among the better-paid California metros.
Geographically, South Whittier is part of the immediate Norwalk metro area. Housing prices track closely with Norwalk's $617,000 median.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in South Whittier
The median home value in South Whittier is $641,700 — 110% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,823/month, 39% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $98,974/year is 33% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.9%, 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 Whittier has a cost of living index of 182 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 82% 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 Whittier, CA?
South Whittier has a cost index of 182 (100 = national average). It is 82% above the national average.
What is average rent in South Whittier, CA?
The median gross rent in South Whittier is $1,823 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in South Whittier?
The median home value in South Whittier is $641,700 according to 2023 Census ACS data.
What is the median income in South Whittier?
The median household income in South Whittier is $98,974 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in South Whittier, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in South Whittier is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is South Whittier, CA affordable?
South Whittier is above average in cost of living, with an index of 182 — about 82% higher than the national average.
South Whittier at a Glance
- Population
- 55,201
- Median Income
- $98,974
- Home Value
- $641,700
- Median Rent
- $1,823/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.9%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
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