Pasadena is a highly desirable city. Living in Pasadena on a $75,000 annual salary will be a squeeze but can be done. We created a guide about the cost of living in Pasadena with different living options to help you determine if making $75,000 is enough to live in Pasadena.
Pasadena Housing Costs
Housing is your major expense. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about $2,200. Pasadena home prices hover around $900,000 for a 2 bedroom home. It won’t be possible to buy a home on a $75,000 income unless you are selling a home and have lots of equity. Remember, your housing costs should be less than 30% of your take home income.
Pasadena Utilities and Other Monthly Expenses
At the bare minimum, you’ll probably have to pay for electricity ($200 to $600), gas (about $100), water ($45-$80), and internet ($85). Groceries ($300-$500) and transportation
Pasadena Healthcare Costs
If you don’t have employer-sponsored healthcare, the average cost for health insurance in Pasadena for a mildly healthy person is about $450 per month.
Pasadena Public Transportation and Commuting Costs
Pasadena has a good public transit system. The Metro train is often used by commuters who don’t have access to a car or don’t want to drive. The Metro bus and Pasadena Transit (bus) System are also options. Public transit offers a monthly pass for around $100. Commuting by car to areas outside Pasadena can cost between $150-$200 monthly.
Pasadena Education Options
Pasadena’s main universities are Caltech, ArtCenter College of Design, and Fuller Theological Seminary. If you are a working student, your cost will differ due to student loans and possibly cheaper housing and grocery options on or near campus.
Pasadena Free and Affordable Entertainment
Pasadena, celebrated for its cultural offerings, provides residents with a plethora of free and affordable entertainment options. This expanded guide highlights some of the best ways to enjoy the city’s vibrant scene on a budget:
- Outdoor Movies at Central Park: Free summer screenings in Central Park offer a fantastic way to enjoy films under the open sky.
- Free Music Concerts: Enjoy diverse musical genres at no cost with regular concerts held at Memorial Park and One Colorado.
- Free Museum Days:
- Norton Simon Museum: The Norton Simon Museum offers free admission on the first Friday of every month from 5:00 to 8:00 PM.
- Huntington Gardens: The Huntington Gardens provides free admission on the first Thursday of every month. Plan ahead because you’ll need to reserve these free ticks ahead of time.
- Matinee Movies: Matinee shows are a budget-friendly way to catch the latest films.
- Discount Grocery Shopping: Explore cost-efficient grocery stores like Trader Joe’s.
- Pasadena Library System: Take advantage of the free access to books, e-books, DVDs, California State Library Parks Pass, and diverse events and workshops offered by the Pasadena Public Libraries.
- Local Festivals and Street Fairs: Pasadena has several free public events including the Pasadena Chalk Festival, Playhouse Village Art Festival, and several free Halloween and free Christmas events.
- Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Pasadena has several free hiking trails and pubic parks, such as the Eaton Canyon Natural Area, which are perfect for those seeking free outdoor activities.
- Community Workshops and Classes: Local community centers and colleges often host free or low-cost workshops and classes covering a range of interests.
- Caltech’s Free Lecture Series: Caltech offers free lectures and talks, featuring experts in various scientific and technological fields.
- ArtNight Pasadena: This bi-annual event offers a unique experience as multiple cultural institutions across Pasadena open their doors for free in the evening, showcasing a variety of art, music, and performances.
Community and Social Life
Pasadena has an active community life with various clubs and social events, enriching residents’ social experiences.
Seasonal Considerations
Be prepared for higher utility costs during summer due to air conditioning needs.
Safety and Neighborhoods
Pasadena is generally safe, but crime rates can vary. Here are tips for choosing the right Pasadena neighborhood:
- Visit at Different Times: Explore the Pasadena neighborhood during different times of the day and night to get a sense of the area’s activity, noise levels, and safety.
- Talk to Residents: Speaking with locals can provide valuable insights into the community’s dynamics and safety.
- Check Crime Statistics: Online resources and Pasadena police reports can give you more info about crime rates and safety in specific neighborhoods.
- Evaluate Amenities: Consider proximity to parks, grocery stores, restaurants, and public transportation.
- Observe Upkeep: The condition of buildings and public spaces can indicate how well the area is maintained.
Different ways to live in Pasadena on a $75,000 salary
- Rent a Room: An economical choice, typically $800-$1,200 monthly.
- Rent an Apartment: Around $3,050 monthly, including major expenses.
- Home Buying: An unlikely option on a $75K salary.
- Get a Roommate: Sharing an apartment reduces individual costs.
Living in Pasadena on a $75,000 salary
Living in Pasadena on a $75,000 salary will be tough but can be done with planning and budgeting. By utilizing Pasadena’s free resources, understanding local expenses, and carefully selecting a neighborhood that meets your safety and lifestyle needs, you can live in Pasadena on a $75,000 salary.
