What to know when moving to Santa Fe Springs, CA
Santa Fe Springs at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A population of 18,255 with a median household income of $87,830.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to 82 postsecondary institutions in the region.
- The Reality Check:
- High median rent at $1,908 with 37.1% of residents renting.
- Commute:
- Only 1.7% use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,908/month in rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Santa Fe Springs features a population where 37.1% of residents are renters, indicating a significant number of people living in rental properties. With 23.4% of the population holding a bachelor's degree, the community has a moderately educated demographic. The median household income is $87,830, which supports a relatively comfortable lifestyle, though the poverty rate stands at 10.8%. Rain is infrequent, with only 32 rainy days per year, making it a dry area ideal for outdoor activities.
Probably not your spot if you prefer a bustling public transit system, as only 1.7% of residents commute via public transportation.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,908, which might strain a budget, especially with a poverty rate of 10.8%.
- Median home value is $624,000, reflecting a competitive housing market.
- Education level is moderate, with 23.4% of residents holding at least a bachelor's degree.
- Renter percentage stands at 37.1%, indicating a mix of homeowners and renters.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In California, the state has seen a decrease in property crime by 26.1% from 2022 to 2025, with a property crime rate of 1,764 per 100,000 residents, higher than the national average of 1,546.9. Violent crime has also decreased by 17.4%, with a rate of 415.5 per 100,000 residents, significantly above the national average of 325.3.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100,000 vs. national 325.3, trend down 17.4% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100,000 vs. national 1,546.9, trend down 26.1% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 44.9% since 2022, currently at 3.2 per 100,000.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
Santa Fe Springs has access to a total of 82 postsecondary institutions in the region, with 78 that provide College Scorecard data. This includes a range of options for those seeking higher education in nearby areas.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 82
- With College Scorecard data: 78
- Notable institutions nearby include Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy and Medical Allied Career Center.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Santa Fe Springs experiences about 18.8 inches of precipitation annually, with 32 rainy days. The winter months account for 11 inches of rain over 14 days, while fall brings 7.3 inches over 13 days. This dry climate allows for plenty of outdoor activities year-round.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Cerritos Heritage Park - 4.7 stars, 3,252 reviews
- Liberty Park and Fitness Center - 4.6 stars, 2,029 reviews
- Laguna Lake Park - 4.6 stars, 1,553 reviews
- Santa Fe Springs Swap Meet - 4.5 stars, 10,163 reviews
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
The job market in Los Angeles County shows a 5.0% unemployment rate as of December 2025, with a labor force of approximately 5.1 million. There are about 4.9 million people employed, indicating a robust local economy.
- 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.