Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Considering a move to Palos Verdes Estates, CA? This upscale coastal community of 13,489 boasts sunny weather 73% of the year, a median home price of $2.6 million, and very low crime rates (just 28 violent crimes per 100K). With top-rated schools, a high educational attainment rate (77% with a bachelor’s or higher), and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s ideal for those seeking safety and excellent amenities. Expect a higher cost of living, beautiful ocean views, and a relaxed lifestyle just 32 minutes from downtown LA.
Demographics - Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Demographics - Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Palos Verdes Estates is a predominantly residential city with a population of 13,489 and a relatively high median age of 50.2, reflecting a mature, established community. The area is mostly White (66%) and Asian (24%), with about 18% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. The community offers a peaceful, low-density environment ideal for families and professionals seeking a quiet coastal lifestyle.
Population:
13,489
Density:
2,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
50.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.4%

Ethnic Composition
White:
66.3%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
24.2%
Others:
3.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Palos Verdes Estates, CA?
Living in Palos Verdes Estates means a premium cost of living, with a median home value of $2.6 million and typical rents around $4,200 per month. The cost of living index is significantly higher than average at 300, mainly due to housing costs, while groceries, utilities, and transportation also trend above national norms. Residents should be prepared for California's variable state income taxes and overall upscale expenses.
Median House Value:
$2,600,000
Gross Rent:
$4,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$2,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$6,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,350
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
300
Grocery:
130
Housing:
520
Utilities:
110
Transportation:
140
Health Care:
115
Miscellaneous:
120
Crime
Is Palos Verdes Estates, CA a safe place to live?
Palos Verdes Estates is recognized for its safety, reporting only 28 violent crimes and 510 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is as low as 1 in 3,570, making it one of the safest communities in the region. This low crime rate contributes to its appeal for families and retirees seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
28
Property Crimes Per 100k:
510
Crime Index:
538
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 3,570
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 196
Weather
What is the weather like in Palos Verdes Estates, CA year-round?
The city enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers averaging highs of 80°F and mild winters that rarely dip below 47°F. Residents benefit from 73% sunny days annually and moderate rainfall, making outdoor activities pleasant year-round. The comfortable weather and ocean breezes are some of the area's biggest draws.

Winter
Min:
47°F
Max:
66°F

Spring
Min:
52°F
Max:
71°F

Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
14.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Palos Verdes Estates boasts a highly affluent population with a median household income of $234,000 and a low poverty rate of 2.2%. Nearly all residents have completed high school, and over three-quarters hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, highlighting a highly educated community. Commute times average about 32 minutes, and most people drive, reflecting the city’s suburban character.
Median Income:
$98,000
Household Income:
$234,000
Family Income:
$259,000
Per Capita Income:
$110,000
Income Male:
$140,000
Income Female:
$67,000
Poverty Rate:
2.2%
Non English Speakers:
18.4%
Rent:
$4,200
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
32.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
99.1%
Bachelors or More:
77.4%
Education
How are the schools in Palos Verdes Estates, CA?
Palos Verdes Estates offers excellent educational opportunities, featuring highly rated public schools like Palos Verdes High School and a variety of private options such as Chadwick School. The community is served by colleges nearby, including El Camino College in Torrance, supporting lifelong learning. With 77% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, education is a top priority in the area.

Public Schools
Name:
Palos Verdes High School
Street:
600 Cloyden Rd
Phone:
310-378-8471
Students:
1,600
Student Teacher Ratio:
23
Name:
Palos Verdes Intermediate School
Street:
2161 Via Olivera
Phone:
310-544-4816
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
21

Private Schools
Name:
Chadwick School
Street:
26800 S Academy Dr
Phone:
310-377-1543
Students:
900

Colleges
Name:
Marymount California University (closed 2022)
City:
Rancho Palos Verdes
State:
CA
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
N/A
Name:
El Camino College
City:
Torrance
State:
CA
Distance:
11 miles
Students:
22,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, with top hospitals nearby in Torrance and an above-average 3.1 physicians per 1,000 people. Health insurance coverage is nearly universal at 97.8%, ensuring most residents can access needed services. The area’s strong healthcare infrastructure supports a healthy, active lifestyle.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Torrance Memorial Medical Center
Address:
3330 Lomita Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505
Phone:
(310) 325-9110
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance
Address:
4101 Torrance Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503
Phone:
(310) 540-7676
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.8%
Health Care Index:
79.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Palos Verdes Estates, CA?
The housing market in Palos Verdes Estates is competitive and stable, with a median home price of $2.6 million and an owner-occupancy rate of nearly 89%. Home values have appreciated by 7% in the past year, and rental vacancies remain low, reflecting high demand. The upscale housing stock and low foreclosure rate make it a prime market for long-term investment.
Median Home Price:
$2,600,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$4,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
88.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.0%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing are handled by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office conveniently located in San Pedro. Residents can access online services or visit the office for all standard DMV needs. California’s DMV website and customer service are available for information and appointments.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
952 S. Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731
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.