Is Torrance expensive to live in?

Torrance is considered expensive, with a cost index of 156 compared to the US average of 100. Living here costs about 56% more than the national average. The median monthly rent is $2,852, and the median household income is $113,105.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Torrance?

Using the standard 30% rent-to-income rule, you need at least $114,080/year to afford median rent in Torrance. The median household income is $113,105, giving a rent-to-income ratio of 30%. Financial experts recommend keeping rent below 30% of gross income.

What is the average rent in Torrance?

The median rent in Torrance is $2,852 per month. Housing costs score 240 against the national average of 100, meaning housing is 140% more expensive than the US average.

How does Torrance compare to the national average cost of living?

Torrance's overall cost index is 156 vs the national average of 100. Breaking it down: housing (240), food & groceries (153), transportation (148), utilities (144), and healthcare (161). Torrance is above average in most categories.

Is Torrance, California a good place to live?

Torrance has a population of 139,224 and a median household income of $113,105. With a cost index of 156, it offers a higher-cost lifestyle. The rent-to-income ratio is 30%, which is within healthy financial guidelines.

What are the cheapest cities near Torrance?

To find the most affordable cities near Torrance in California, use the Livably city comparison tool or browse the California state page. You can compare rent, cost index, income, and affordability side by side across all tracked cities.

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Torrance

Monthly city intelligence across housing costs, tax load, and affordability signals to help you plan your next move with clearer numbers.

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Cost index: 156

Median rent: $2,852

Median income: $113,105

Cost Index

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Median Rent

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About Torrance

Living in Torrance, California

Torrance, California is a growing city with a population of approximately 139,224. The overall cost of living index sits at 156, which is significantly above the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses — housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare — are roughly 56% more expensive compared to the typical U.S. city.

Housing is the largest cost driver in Torrance. Median rent is $2,852 per month, while the median home price is $1,103,723. At a median household income of $113,105, rent consumes roughly 30% of gross income, which represents a moderate housing cost burden. The housing sub-index of 240 highlights significantly elevated shelter costs.

Beyond housing, healthcare is the most elevated non-shelter expense in Torrance with a sub-index of 161, while utilities is comparatively more affordable at 144. State-level taxes also shape the true cost of living: California applies a 13.30% income tax rate, and property tax averages 0.71% of assessed home value. The combined sales tax rate is 8.85%. Local income tax may apply in some municipalities.

Over the past twelve months, the cost of living in Torrance has remained relatively stable. Among the 61 tracked cities in California, Torrance ranks #49 from most to least affordable. Whether you're evaluating a job offer, planning a relocation, or comparing salary purchasing power, these numbers give a grounded, data-backed view of what life in Torrance actually costs.

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