Is Sierra Madre Safe, Pros and cons of living in Sierra Madre

Sierra Madre, California, offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and access to the vibrant culture of the greater Los Angeles area. Nestled at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, this charming city provides a picturesque setting with a strong sense of community. It appeals to those seeking a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing the conveniences of a major metropolitan region.

The city boasts a pleasant climate and a well-regarded educational system, making it an attractive option for families and individuals alike. Understanding the various facets of life in Sierra Madre, from its safety and cost of living to its employment opportunities and demographics, is essential for anyone considering a move to this desirable Southern California locale.

Is it Safe to Live in Sierra Madre?

Sierra Madre generally presents a safe environment for its residents. The overall crime rate in Sierra Madre is significantly lower than the national average, with violent crimes also reported at a reduced rate compared to national figures (as reported by AreaVibes). This suggests a community where safety is a priority and residents can feel secure in their daily lives.

While no city is entirely without crime, Sierra Madre’s statistics indicate a lower likelihood of victimization. Property crimes also fall below national averages, contributing to the perception of safety. Residents often consider the northern parts of the city to be the safest, with varying chances of being a victim depending on the specific neighborhood (as reported by CrimeGrade.org and Crime Explorer). This localized understanding of safety can be beneficial for those choosing where to settle within the city.

Housing and Cost of Living

The cost of living in Sierra Madre is notably higher than the national average, largely driven by housing expenses. The median home value in Sierra Madre stands at approximately $1,148,212 (as reported by Livability.com), and recent data shows median listing prices around $1.9 million (as reported by Realtor.com®). This indicates a competitive real estate market where homeownership represents a significant investment.

Rental costs in Sierra Madre are also above the national average. The average rent for an apartment is around $1,670 per month, with one-bedroom units averaging $1,670 (as reported by Apartments.com). For those seeking to rent, it is recommended to have a monthly income of about $5,566 to comfortably afford these rates, adhering to the guideline of spending no more than 30% of income on rent (as reported by Apartments.com). This elevated cost of living extends to other categories, with utility and transportation expenses also being higher than the national average (as reported by Payscale).

Median Home Prices and Rent

The real estate market in Sierra Madre is characterized by high median home prices. As of March 2026, home prices were down 3.4% year-over-year, with a median sale price of $1.4 million (as reported by Redfin). Zillow data from March 2026 indicates an average home value of $1,437,492, reflecting a 2.5% decrease over the past year. These figures highlight a market where property values are substantial.

Rental prices in Sierra Madre also reflect the area’s premium cost of living. The average rent for an apartment is around $2,675 per month (as reported by Zumper). For specific unit types, a one-bedroom apartment averages approximately $2,050, while a two-bedroom unit is around $2,595. Houses for rent can range significantly, with an average monthly cost of $5,000 (as reported by Zumper). These rental figures underscore the high demand and value placed on housing within Sierra Madre.

Overall Cost of Living

Sierra Madre’s overall cost of living is substantially higher than both the national and California state averages. Living expenses are approximately 42% higher than the U.S. average and 1% higher than California’s state average (as reported by Salary.com). This increased cost is primarily influenced by housing, transportation, and food expenses, which are all above the national averages (as reported by Payscale and Salary.com).

For a single individual, monthly living costs are estimated at $3,523, while a family of four can expect to spend around $7,759 per month (as reported by Salary.com). These figures emphasize that Sierra Madre is a city where the cost of maintaining a household is significantly higher than in many other parts of the country.

Job Market and Economy

The economy of Sierra Madre employs nearly 6,000 residents, with key industries including Health Care & Social Assistance, Educational Services, and Retail Trade (as reported by Data USA). While employment in Sierra Madre saw a slight decline of -1.12% between 2023 and 2024, the primary sectors offer diverse opportunities. The highest paying industries in the area are Wholesale Trade, Finance & Insurance, and Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services (as reported by Data USA).

The average annual salary in Sierra Madre is approximately $52,461, translating to about $25.22 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). However, other sources suggest a higher average annual pay of around $66,121 per year, or $31.79 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The median household income is reported at $131,285 (as reported by Livability.com) and $143,547 (as reported by Point2Homes), indicating a range of earning potentials within the community.

Major Employers and Industries

While specific major employers within Sierra Madre’s city limits are not detailed in the provided data, the broader economic landscape points to significant sectors. Health Care & Social Assistance is a dominant industry, followed by Educational Services and Retail Trade (as reported by Data USA). These sectors provide a substantial portion of the employment opportunities for residents.

The highest paying industries within Sierra Madre include Wholesale Trade, Finance & Insurance, and Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services. These fields offer higher earning potential, contributing to the overall economic profile of the city. Understanding these industry strengths can guide individuals seeking career advancement or new employment opportunities in the area.

Unemployment and Salary Expectations

The unemployment rate in Sierra Madre is reported at 1.8% (as reported by Niche), which is lower than the national average. This suggests a robust job market with ample opportunities for those seeking employment. The average annual salary hovers around $52,461 to $66,121, depending on the source, with a wide range of salaries based on specific occupations and experience levels (as reported by ZipRecruiter and Livability.com).

Salaries in Sierra Madre typically fall between $38,436 and $63,394 for the 25th to 75th percentile, respectively (as reported by ZipRecruiter). Top-paying professions include specialized medical roles such as OMFS Surgeon and Surgeon, indicating a demand for high-skilled medical professionals. This salary range, combined with the low unemployment rate, paints a picture of a stable economic environment for residents.

Climate and Environment

Sierra Madre experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Average annual temperatures range from 42°F to 88°F, with comfortable humidity levels throughout the summer months (as reported by Livability.com). The city receives an average of 27 inches of rainfall annually (as reported by Livability.com), with February typically being the wettest month.

The climate is generally pleasant, with approximately 219 days per year considered to have comfortable weather. This makes it an ideal location for outdoor activities for a significant portion of the year. Snowfall is rare, with an average annual snowfall of 0 inches (as reported by Livability.com), ensuring clear roads and outdoor accessibility throughout most of the year.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall

Throughout the year, temperatures in Sierra Madre typically fluctuate between 45°F and 89°F, rarely dropping below 38°F or exceeding 97°F (as reported by Weather.com). The hot season spans roughly three months, from late June to late September, with daily high temperatures averaging above 84°F. August is the hottest month, with average highs around 89°F and lows of 66°F.

Conversely, the cool season extends from late November to mid-March, with average daily highs below 70°F. December is the coldest month, with average lows of 45°F and highs of 66°F. The city receives about 22 inches of precipitation annually (as reported by myPerfectWeather), with most of it occurring during the winter months.

Demographics and Community

Sierra Madre is home to a population of approximately 10,900 residents, with a median age of around 44.8 years (as reported by Data USA and ZoomProspector). The demographic makeup is diverse, with White residents forming the largest group at about 52%, followed by Hispanic and Asian residents at 18% and 17%, respectively (as reported by Niche). This diversity contributes to the rich cultural fabric of the community.

The population is well-educated, with a significant portion holding bachelor’s or graduate degrees. The median household income is reported to be around $143,547 (as reported by Point2Homes), indicating a financially stable community. A majority of residents are U.S. citizens, with a small percentage of foreign-born individuals, reflecting a stable and established community.

Population Breakdown

The population of Sierra Madre is approximately 10,940 people (as reported by Data USA). The median age is 44.8 years, with a slightly higher proportion of females (52.1%) compared to males (47.9%) (as reported by ZoomProspector and Sierra Madre, CA Population 2026). This age distribution suggests a community with a balanced mix of working adults and a mature population.

Racial and ethnic diversity is present, with White individuals constituting about 51.6% of the population, followed by Hispanic (17.9%) and Asian (17.1%) residents (as reported by Point2Homes). This demographic composition contributes to a varied cultural landscape within the city.

Education and Schools

Sierra Madre is served by the Pasadena Unified School District, which includes highly-rated public schools. Sierra Madre Elementary School consistently ranks within the top 10% of all public schools in California, demonstrating strong performance in math and reading proficiency (as reported by Sierra Madre Elementary School and SchoolDigger.com). The student-teacher ratio at Sierra Madre Elementary is 25:1, which is higher than the California state average.

Sierra Madre Middle School also performs well, consistently ranking in the top 10-11% of California schools. These schools are noted for their academic achievement, significantly outperforming both district and state averages. The low chronic absenteeism rates at these schools indicate a highly engaged student body and supportive school community (as reported by SchoolDigger.com).

School Ratings and Performance

Sierra Madre Elementary School is recognized for its academic excellence, ranking in the top 10% of California schools for overall test scores. Math proficiency is at 71%, and reading proficiency is at 73%, both considerably higher than the state averages (as reported by Sierra Madre Elementary School). The school also shows strength in science proficiency, ranking in the top 5%.

Sierra Madre Middle School maintains a strong academic standing as well, consistently ranking among the top public schools in the state. Both elementary and middle schools benefit from substantial per-student funding and have maintained their high rankings over multiple years (as reported by SchoolDigger.com). This commitment to education provides a strong foundation for students in the community.

Major Employers and Job Market Insights

While Sierra Madre itself is a smaller city, its proximity to Los Angeles means residents have access to a vast job market. Within Sierra Madre, the primary industries are Health Care & Social Assistance, Educational Services, and Retail Trade (as reported by Data USA). These sectors provide a significant portion of local employment.

The highest-paying industries in Sierra Madre are Wholesale Trade, Finance & Insurance, and Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services. These fields offer lucrative career paths for those with specialized skills. The average annual salary in Sierra Madre is around $52,461, but this can vary significantly based on occupation and experience (as reported by ZipRecruiter).

Employment Landscape

The employment sector in Sierra Madre is diverse, with a notable presence in healthcare and education. From 2023 to 2024, employment within the city saw a slight decrease of -1.12%, employing approximately 5,980 individuals (as reported by Data USA). The most common job sectors are Health Care & Social Assistance, followed by Educational Services and Retail Trade.

The job market in Sierra Madre is influenced by the broader Los Angeles metropolitan area. Major employers in nearby Arcadia, for instance, include Atlas Assembly and FedEx Ground Package System, Inc. (as reported by Wikipedia). This proximity allows Sierra Madre residents to tap into a much larger and more varied employment landscape.

Climate Details

Sierra Madre enjoys a Mediterranean climate, featuring hot, dry summers and cool, partly cloudy winters. The average high temperature in August reaches 89°F, while the average low in December is 45°F (as reported by Weather.com). The city experiences approximately 27 inches of rainfall annually, with precipitation concentrated in the winter months (as reported by Livability.com).

The comfortable weather conditions, with temperatures rarely falling below 38°F or exceeding 97°F, make it an appealing place to live year-round. The pleasant climate supports outdoor activities and contributes to the overall quality of life for its residents.

Temperature Ranges and Precipitation

The temperature in Sierra Madre typically ranges from 45°F to 89°F throughout the year (as reported by myPerfectWeather). Summers are hot and arid, with average daily highs exceeding 84°F from late June to late September. Winters are cooler, with average daily highs below 70°F from late November to mid-March.

Annual precipitation averages around 22 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The majority of this rainfall occurs during the winter season, providing a natural water source for the region. Snowfall is minimal, with an average of 0 inches per year, making snow-related disruptions uncommon.

Demographics and Community Profile

Sierra Madre is a city with a population of roughly 10,940 residents (as reported by Data USA). The median age is 44.8 years, and the community is characterized by a significant presence of White, Hispanic, and Asian populations (as reported by Niche and Point2Homes). This diversity enriches the community’s cultural tapestry.

The median household income is substantial, reported at $143,547 (as reported by Point2Homes), with a poverty rate of 3.1% (as reported by Point2Homes). A high percentage of residents are U.S. citizens, contributing to a stable and established community environment.

Racial and Ethnic Composition

The racial makeup of Sierra Madre shows a White majority at approximately 52%, followed by Hispanic residents at 18% and Asian residents at 17% (as reported by Niche). Other racial groups, including African American and those identifying with two or more races, make up smaller percentages of the population.

This demographic composition provides a vibrant mix of cultural influences within the city. The foreign-born population is about 17.7% of residents (as reported by Data USA), indicating a degree of international representation within the community.

Age and Gender Distribution

The median age in Sierra Madre is 44.8 years, with a distribution showing approximately 15% of the population under 15 years old and about 20.8% aged 65 or older (as reported by ZoomProspector). This indicates a community with a balanced age demographic, comprising both younger families and a significant senior population.

Gender distribution is fairly even, with females making up 52.1% of the population and males accounting for 47.9% (as reported by ZoomProspector). This balance contributes to the community’s overall social dynamics.

Major Employers and Economic Drivers

While specific large-scale employers within Sierra Madre are not extensively detailed, the city benefits from its location within the greater Los Angeles economic region. Key industries within Sierra Madre itself include healthcare, education, and retail (as reported by Data USA). These sectors form the backbone of local employment opportunities.

The highest-paying industries in Sierra Madre are Wholesale Trade, Finance & Insurance, and Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services (as reported by Data USA). These fields attract professionals seeking higher earning potential within the community.

Job Market Overview

The job market in Sierra Madre is characterized by its reliance on key service sectors. Health Care & Social Assistance is the largest employing industry, followed by Educational Services and Retail Trade (as reported by Data USA). The unemployment rate is low, at 1.8% (as reported by Niche), indicating a healthy demand for labor.

The average salary in Sierra Madre is around $52,461 annually (as reported by ZipRecruiter). However, this figure can vary widely depending on the specific job and industry. Proximity to major employment centers in Los Angeles County expands job opportunities for residents.

Climate and Weather Patterns

Sierra Madre experiences a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasons. Summers are typically hot and dry, while winters are mild and relatively wet. The average annual temperature range is from 45°F to 89°F, with comfortable humidity levels during the summer (as reported by myPerfectWeather and Weather.com).

The city receives about 22 to 27 inches of precipitation annually, primarily during the winter months (as reported by Livability.com and myPerfectWeather). Snowfall is rare, contributing to a generally mild climate year-round.

Seasonal Temperatures and Precipitation

Temperatures in Sierra Madre peak in August, with average highs around 89°F, and reach their lowest in December, with average lows near 45°F (as reported by Weather.com). The hot season lasts for about three months, from late June to late September. The cool season spans from late November to mid-March.

Annual rainfall averages around 22 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The wettest month is typically February. The climate is conducive to outdoor activities for much of the year, with an estimated 219 comfortable weather days annually (as reported by myPerfectWeather).

Demographics and Community Characteristics

Sierra Madre has a population of approximately 10,940 residents, with a median age of 44.8 years (as reported by Data USA and ZoomProspector). The community is diverse, with White individuals forming the largest demographic group, followed by Hispanic and Asian residents (as reported by Niche).

The median household income is reported at $143,547 (as reported by Point2Homes), suggesting a comfortable economic standing for many residents. The population is largely U.S.-born, with a notable percentage of naturalized citizens.

Population Statistics

The population of Sierra Madre is around 10,940, making it the 474th most populated city in California out of 1,570 (as reported by Point2Homes). The gender distribution is close to even, with slightly more females than males (as reported by ZoomProspector). The median age of 44.8 years indicates a community with a substantial adult population.

The racial composition is primarily White (around 52%), with significant Hispanic (18%) and Asian (17%) populations (as reported by Niche). This diversity contributes to the unique character of Sierra Madre.

Educational System

Sierra Madre is served by the Pasadena Unified School District, which includes highly-regarded public schools. Sierra Madre Elementary School and Sierra Madre Middle School consistently rank among the top public schools in California, showing strong academic performance (as reported by SchoolDigger.com).

These schools demonstrate significantly higher proficiency rates in math, reading, and science compared to state averages. The student-teacher ratio at Sierra Madre Elementary is 25:1, which is higher than the state average, but overall academic outcomes remain exceptional.

School Performance and Rankings

Sierra Madre Elementary School ranks within the top 10% of California schools, with math and reading proficiency rates at 71% and 73%, respectively (as reported by Sierra Madre Elementary School). The school also excels in science proficiency, placing in the top 5%. Sierra Madre Middle School also maintains a high ranking within the state.

Both schools benefit from strong community engagement and above-average academic achievement. The consistent high performance of these institutions makes Sierra Madre an attractive location for families prioritizing education (as reported by SchoolDigger.com).