La Verne, CA vs South Gate, CA
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. South Gate is 27.8% cheaper than La Verne. With a cost index of 135 vs 172, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from South Gate to La Verne should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in La Verne is $2,204/month compared to $1,471/month in South Gate — a 50% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: South Gate is more affordable at $608,500 median vs $793,900.
Median household income in La Verne is $104,565 compared to $71,315 in South Gate (+46.6%). While La Verne is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of La Verne spend roughly 25.3% of their income on rent, more than the 24.8% in South Gate.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (66.8°F vs 65.8°F). South Gate receives more rainfall at 14.3" per year compared to 11.6" in La Verne.
Income & Cost
Housing
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Rent by Bedroom Size
HUD Fair Market Rent (FY 2026) — metro area average
Everyday Prices
BLS Average Prices by metro area
Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)