El centro, CA — Cost of Living & Relocation Guide
Population: 43,811
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
About El centro, CA
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to El centro, CA. With a population of 43,811, El centro features a cost of living index of 130.7 (30.7% above the national average of 100). The local economy supports a median household income of $54,922 (27% below the national average), while the real estate market offers homes at a median price of $480,000.
Explore our detailed crime and safety data (32% above the national average), school ratings, tax information, and climate data below. Compare El centro with Ontario or other cities.
📅 Data last updated: February 2026 | Sources: U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, BLS
El centro, CA Quick Facts & Key Statistics
💡City Insights
El centro scores 3/10 for affordability, 4/10 for safety, and 3/10 for family-friendliness — an challenging overall profile. However, family-friendliness is a weaker area that prospective residents should consider carefully.
Living in El centro, CA
El Centro, California, located in the Imperial Valley, is the largest city in Imperial County. Known for its warm climate, El Centro serves as an agricultural hub due to the fertile grounds provided by the Colorado River. With a population of approximately 44,000 this city boasts a rich cultural blend influenced by its proximity to the Mexican border, just a few miles away. The city features a range of parks, recreational areas, and community facilities. The Imperial Valley Expo, which hosts the annual County Fair, is a notable landmark, attracting visitors from across the region. El Centro is also home to several educational institutions and healthcare facilities, contributing to its thriving community. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby desert landscapes and mountains, including the rugged beauty of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The city experiences hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination for those seeking sun. With its strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere, El Centro is a gateway to the rich cultural heritage of the Imperial Valley.
How El centro Compares
Black line indicates US average
💵 Affordability Calculator
Based on the 28/36 rule: housing costs should not exceed 28% of your gross income. Compared against local median income of $54,922.
Income Needed to Buy
Income Needed to Rent
Pros & Cons of Moving to El centro, CA
Pros
- • Friendly community vibe
- • Growing job opportunities
- • Cultural diversity present
- • Accessible public transport
- • Local festivals and events
- • Outdoor activities nearby
- • Affordable cost of living
- • Family-friendly activities
- • Good schools in the area
- • Mild climate year-round
Cons
- • High crime rates reported
- • Limited dining choices
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Some areas face poverty
- • Lower average wages
- • Environmental pollution issues
- • Job market is competitive
- • Public services may lack
- • Few kids' activities available
- • Political divide evident
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in El centro, CA? ▼
The cost of living in El centro, CA is 31% higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 131 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in El centro, CA? ▼
In El centro, CA, The median home price is $480,000. requiring approximately $145,714 annual income to afford. Average rent is $1,587/month (requiring ~$63,473/year income). The local median household income is $54,922, making homeownership challenging for typical residents. Explore El centro real estate data →
Is El centro, CA a safe place to live? ▼
El centro, CA is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. The crime rate is 30.4 per 1,000 residents. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed El centro crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in El centro, CA? ▼
To live comfortably in El centro, CA and afford a median-priced home of $480,000, you would typically need a household income of $120,000 to $150,000 per year. The local median household income is $54,922. Renting requires approximately $63,473/year (at $1,587/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the job opportunities like in El centro, CA? ▼
El centro, CA has an unemployment rate of 12.9%, which is above the national average of 3.7%. The median household income is $54,922, suggesting developing local economic conditions. View El centro employment & demographics →
Is El centro, CA growing? ▼
El centro, CA has a population of 43,811. As a smaller community, population trends depend on local housing development, job growth, and quality of life factors. The higher cost housing market and competitive job market shape migration patterns. See El centro population demographics →
What are the best neighborhoods in El centro, CA? ▼
The best neighborhoods in El centro, CA depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods farther from the city center tend to offer more affordable options. Explore El centro on our interactive map →
What is the commute like in El centro, CA? ▼
Commute times in El centro, CA vary by neighborhood and workplace location. As a smaller community, residents typically drive, as public transit is limited. The moderate cost of living may allow for housing closer to employment centers. Explore commute times on our map →
How are the taxes in El centro, CA? ▼
Tax rates in El centro, CA include state and local components. The cost of living index of 131 indicates a higher cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed El centro tax information →
How does El centro, CA compare to Ontario? ▼
El centro, CA offers comparable costs to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 131, median home prices of $480,000, and a crime rate of 30.45 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Compare El centro vs Ontario →
What is the weather like in El centro, CA? ▼
Weather in El centro, CA varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed El centro climate & environment data →
Explore El centro in Detail
📅 Last Updated: February 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), FBI Uniform Crime Reports, Bureau of Labor Statistics