Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Compton, CA
Considering a move to Compton, CA? With a population of nearly 96,000, Compton offers affordable rents (around $1,630 for a 2-bedroom) and relatively accessible home prices for the LA area, averaging $545,000. Expect a vibrant, youthful community, a mild Mediterranean climate with 73% sunny days, and a short commute averaging 29 minutes. While crime rates are higher than average, the city features proximity to major hospitals, easy public transit options, and educational opportunities including El Camino College Compton Center. Explore the diverse culture, energetic atmosphere, and unique SoCal living Compton has to offer.
Demographics - Compton, CA
Demographics - Compton, CA
Compton is home to nearly 96,000 residents, with a youthful median age of 29.6 and a high population density. The city features a diverse community, with over half of residents speaking a language other than English and a strong representation of Black and Latino populations. This vibrant mix contributes to a dynamic cultural atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
95,740
Density:
9,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
29.6
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
52.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
2.6%
Black:
28.4%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
68.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Compton, CA?
The cost of living in Compton is above the national average, with a median home value of $545,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment around $1,630. While utilities and groceries are moderately priced, housing and transportation costs are significant factors for residents. State taxes can range widely, so budgeting carefully is important for new arrivals.
Median House Value:
$545,000
Gross Rent:
$1,630
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$2,000
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,450
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
138.4
Grocery:
112.5
Housing:
150.7
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
132.4
Health Care:
108.3
Miscellaneous:
106.5
Crime
Is Compton, CA a safe place to live?
Compton experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a violent crime rate of 1,120 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 89 chance of being affected. Property crime is also notable, with a 1 in 34 chance. Prospective residents should consider local safety measures and neighborhood selection when planning a move.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,900
Crime Index:
4,020
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 89
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 34
Weather
What is the weather like in Compton, CA year-round?
Compton enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with pleasant winters averaging 46–68°F and summers peaking at 84°F. The area receives about 14.6 inches of rain annually and boasts 73% sunny days, making it attractive for those who value outdoor living and consistent weather. Seasonal temperature changes are gentle, ensuring comfortable conditions year-round.
Winter
Min:
46°F
Max:
68°F
Spring
Min:
52°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
14.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Local households in Compton have a median income of $56,800, with a poverty rate of 22.9% and an average commute time of 29.3 minutes. Educational attainment is moderate, with just over 62% completing high school and 8% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The community is diverse and family-oriented, with many relying on both public transit and car commutes.
Median Income:
$25,500
Household Income:
$56,800
Family Income:
$54,300
Per Capita Income:
$17,100
Income Male:
$33,000
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
22.9%
Non English Speakers:
52.3%
Rent:
$1,630
Unemployment Rate:
8.7%
Public Transport Usage:
6.0%
Commute Time:
29.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
62.4%
Bachelors or More:
8.1%
Education
How are the schools in Compton, CA?
Compton offers a variety of educational opportunities, including public and private schools as well as local colleges like El Camino College Compton Center. Public schools serve a large student body with student-teacher ratios in the low 20s, while nearby higher education institutions such as California State University Dominguez Hills are within a short drive. Families and students benefit from accessible options for both K-12 and college-level education.
Public Schools
Name:
Compton High School
Street:
601 S Acacia Ave
Phone:
310-898-6000
Students:
1,600
Student Teacher Ratio:
21.1
Name:
Dominguez High School
Street:
15301 S San Jose Ave
Phone:
310-898-6320
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.5
Private Schools
Name:
St. Albert the Great School
Street:
804 E Compton Blvd
Phone:
310-639-9731
Students:
250
Colleges
Name:
El Camino College Compton Center
City:
Compton
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
6,300
Name:
California State University Dominguez Hills
City:
Carson
State:
CA
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
17,000
Healthcare
Compton residents have access to two major hospitals offering full emergency services, supported by about 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people. Health insurance coverage is fairly high at nearly 86%, and the city’s healthcare index suggests generally good access to care. These resources contribute to a supportive environment for personal health and wellness.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital
Address:
1680 E 120th St, Los Angeles, CA 90059
Phone:
(424) 338-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Francis Medical Center
Address:
3630 E Imperial Hwy, Lynwood, CA 90262
Phone:
(310) 900-8900
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.8%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Compton, CA?
Compton’s housing market offers relatively accessible options for Southern California, with a median home price of $545,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,630. About half of the homes are owner-occupied, and the low vacancy rate indicates steady demand. Home values have been appreciating modestly, making it a potentially stable market for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$545,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,630
Owner Occupied Rate:
50.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.5%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
The California Department of Motor Vehicles in Compton is conveniently located on South Santa Fe Avenue, serving local residents with licensing, registration, and vehicle services. The office can be reached at 1-800-777-0133 or online via the state DMV website. This local branch provides essential services for new and current drivers in the area.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2111 S. Santa Fe Ave, Compton, CA 90221
Phone:
1-800-777-0133
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.