Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South El Monte, CA
Considering a move to South El Monte, CA? With a population of nearly 20,000, this vibrant city offers a sunny Southern California climate, affordable rents averaging $1,650, and a median home price around $605,000. Commute times average 28.5 minutes and the city maintains low violent crime rates (238 per 100K). While educational attainment is lower than the state average, South El Monte features convenient access to major hospitals, local schools, and plenty of sunshine—making it a practical choice for families seeking affordability close to LA.
Demographics - South El Monte, CA
Demographics - South El Monte, CA
South El Monte is home to about 19,740 residents, with a youthful median age of 33.4 and a high population density, reflecting the city's urban character. The community is predominantly Hispanic/Latino, with significant Asian representation, and over 70% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The city has a slightly higher proportion of males to females, offering a diverse and multicultural environment.
Population:
19,740
Density:
7,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.4
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
72.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
5.2%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
31.0%
Others:
63.3% (predominantly Hispanic/Latino)
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South El Monte, CA?
Living in South El Monte comes with a cost of living index of 136, meaning expenses are higher than the national average but typical for the Los Angeles area. The median home value is around $605,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,650, making it a relatively affordable option for Southern California. Residents benefit from moderate utility costs and a range of state tax rates, helping to balance overall expenses.
Median House Value:
$605,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,890
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$670
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
136.0
Grocery:
113.2
Housing:
170.1
Utilities:
102.3
Transportation:
138.7
Health Care:
112.4
Miscellaneous:
110.8
Crime
Is South El Monte, CA a safe place to live?
South El Monte maintains a relatively low violent crime rate of 238 per 100,000 residents, which is favorable compared to many other LA area communities. Property crime is more common, with a 1 in 75 chance, but overall, the city offers a sense of safety for families and individuals. These statistics make South El Monte appealing for those prioritizing a secure neighborhood.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
238
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,320
Crime Index:
1,558
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 420
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 75
Weather
What is the weather like in South El Monte, CA year-round?
South El Monte enjoys the classic Southern California climate, with mild winters averaging lows in the upper 40s and warm, dry summers reaching highs near 89°F. The city sees about 15.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts sunshine nearly 73% of the year, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. Seasonal changes are moderate, making the weather comfortable throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
46°F
Max:
68°F
Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
15.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Residents of South El Monte experience a close-knit community with a median household income of $57,400 and a poverty rate of 17.8%. Most neighbors commute about 28.5 minutes to work and only a small portion uses public transportation. While educational attainment is lower than average, the area is characterized by affordable rents and a multicultural population, with over 70% speaking languages other than English at home.
Median Income:
$22,100
Household Income:
$57,400
Family Income:
$62,600
Per Capita Income:
$17,800
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$27,500
Poverty Rate:
17.8%
Non English Speakers:
72.0%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
4.1%
Commute Time:
28.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
66.2%
Bachelors or More:
10.2%
Education
How are the schools in South El Monte, CA?
Families in South El Monte have access to local public schools like South El Monte High and Dean L. Shively Middle School, with moderate student-teacher ratios. Private options and proximity to colleges such as Rio Hondo College and Cal State LA, both less than 10 miles away, make higher education accessible. While only about 10% have a bachelor's degree or higher, educational opportunities exist for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
South El Monte High School
Street:
1001 Durfee Ave
Phone:
626-443-6181
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.4
Name:
Dean L. Shively Middle School
Street:
1431 Central Ave
Phone:
626-575-2308
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.1
Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady of Miraculous Medal School
Street:
820 N. Garfield Ave
Phone:
626-280-5345
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
Rio Hondo College
City:
Whittier
State:
CA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
19,000
Name:
California State University, Los Angeles
City:
Los Angeles
State:
CA
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
27,000
Healthcare
South El Monte residents have access to quality medical care, with two major hospitals nearby—Greater El Monte Community Hospital and Garfield Medical Center—both offering emergency services. The area supports a solid healthcare infrastructure, reflected by 2.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and health insurance coverage reaching over 87%. These resources ensure residents can find essential health services close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Greater El Monte Community Hospital
Address:
1701 Santa Anita Ave, South El Monte, CA 91733
Phone:
(626) 579-7777
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Garfield Medical Center
Address:
525 N Garfield Ave, Monterey Park, CA 91754
Phone:
(626) 573-2222
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.1%
Health Care Index:
72.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South El Monte, CA?
The housing market in South El Monte is competitive yet relatively affordable for the region, with a median home price of $605,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,650. About 42% of homes are owner-occupied, and the vacancy rate is low, indicating stable demand. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% over the past year, making it an attractive area for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$605,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
41.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
2.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
South El Monte residents handle their vehicle and licensing needs through the nearby California DMV office in El Monte, conveniently located on Arden Drive. The DMV offers comprehensive services for driver's licenses, vehicle registration, and more, with accessible support by phone and online. This local access simplifies transportation requirements for city residents.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
4000 Arden Dr, El Monte, CA 91731
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.