What to know when moving to Monrovia, CA
Monrovia at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated ZIP where 43.9% hold a bachelor's degree and just over half of residents rent.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $99,555, providing a solid financial foundation for residents.
- The Reality Check:
- Median rent is $2,008, which may be a stretch for some budgets.
- Commute:
- Only 2.3% of residents use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $2,008/month in rent, and prepare for 32 rainy days a year.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Monrovia has a population of about 41,710, featuring a balanced housing market with 50.3% of residents renting. The community enjoys a fairly high education rate, with nearly 44% of residents holding a bachelor's degree. However, the cost of living can be a bit steep, with a median rent of $2,008, making it less accessible for those on a tighter budget.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for affordable housing, as the median gross rent is quite high.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $2,008, which means you'll need to budget accordingly.
- Median home value is $874,100, indicating a competitive housing market.
- 43.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, contributing to the area's educated character.
- Poverty rate stands at 10.1%, reflecting some economic diversity.
- Only 2.3% of residents commute via public transit, suggesting a need for a car.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In California, the property crime rate is 1,764 per 100,000 residents, which is 14% higher than the national average. The violent crime rate is 415.5 per 100,000, indicating a 27.7% increase compared to national figures. However, both rates have shown a decrease in recent years, with property crime dropping by 26.1% and violent crime by 17.4% from 2022 to 2025.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100,000 vs. national rate of 325.3
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100,000 vs. national rate of 1,546.9
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 44.9% since 2022
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
Monrovia has access to 43 postsecondary institutions in the nearby area, reflecting a robust educational landscape.
- Postsecondary institutions: 43
- All institutions with College Scorecard data: 43
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Monrovia experiences an annual precipitation of about 18.8 inches, with a total of 32 rainy days each year. The region has no snowfall, making it easy to enjoy outdoor activities year-round.
- Grant Rea Park Recreation Building - 4.5 stars (1,209 reviews)
- Peck Road Water Conservation Park - 4.4 stars (1,174 reviews)
- Library Park - 4.6 stars (1,064 reviews)
- Monrovia Canyon Park - 4.6 stars (671 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Los Angeles County, the unemployment rate is currently at 5.0%, with a total labor force of approximately 5,148,903 individuals. The county employs about 4,889,561 people, creating a competitive job market.
- 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.