What to know when moving to Bell, CA
Bell at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 79% of residents are renters and the median household income is $56,824.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to 90 nearby postsecondary institutions, including Alliant International University-Los Angeles.
- The Reality Check:
- A poverty rate of 23.6% may impact community resources and amenities.
- Commute:
- Only 4.4% of residents use public transit for commuting.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $1,623 per month.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Bell has a high renter population, with 79% of residents renting their homes. The area has a median household income of $56,824, which is reflective of the local economic conditions. However, the community faces challenges, including a poverty rate of 23.6%, indicating that many residents may struggle with financial stability. With only 4.4% of the population commuting via public transit, a vehicle would be essential for getting around.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a community with low poverty rates or robust public transit options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,623, which may be more affordable compared to surrounding areas within Los Angeles County.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $542,800, indicating a significant investment for homeowners.
- The community has a low educational attainment rate with only 7.4% holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
- A poverty rate of 23.6% suggests a need for affordable housing options.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In California, property crime rates are notably higher than the national average, with a state annual rate of 1,764 per 100,000 residents compared to the national rate of 1,546.9 per 100,000. Meanwhile, violent crime stands at 415.5 per 100,000, which is also above the national average of 325.3.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100,000 vs. national 325.3, down 17.4% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100,000 vs. national 1,546.9, down 26.1% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have decreased by 44.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
Bell provides access to a total of 90 postsecondary institutions in the surrounding area, with 86 of them having College Scorecard data. Notable institutions include Alliant International University-Los Angeles and ABC Adult School, both located in the nearby counties.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 90
- Institutions with College Scorecard data: 86
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES, College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Los Angeles County has an annual precipitation total of 18.8 inches and experiences about 32 rainy days each year. Winter months see the most rainfall, accounting for 11 inches across 14 rainy days.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Exposition Park Rose Garden - 4.7 stars (2,558 reviews)
- Bell Gardens John Anson Ford Park - 4.6 stars (1,852 reviews)
- Heritage Square Museum - 4.6 stars (830 reviews)
- Bell Gardens Veterans Park - 4.4 stars (682 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Los Angeles County, the unemployment rate stands at 5.0% as of December 2025, with a total labor force of 5,148,903. The county has a significant employment base, with 4,889,561 people currently employed.
- Unemployment rate: 5.0% as of December 2025
- Employed: 4,889,561
- Labor force: 5,148,903
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.