What to know when moving to Torrance, CA
Torrance at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated area with 38.7% of residents holding a bachelor's degree and over half of the population renting.
- The Major Draw:
- With a median household income of $92,815, it provides a solid economic backdrop.
- The Reality Check:
- Renters face a median gross rent of $1,868, which can be steep for some.
- Commute:
- Only 0.9% of residents use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median home value of $887,300, which is a significant investment.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
In Torrance, about 54.4% of the residents are renters, which creates a dynamic housing market. The area's median household income stands at $92,815, indicating a comfortable standard of living. However, with a poverty rate of 11.6%, some residents may face economic challenges. The community has a strong educational focus, with 38.7% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The weather is dry, receiving just 18.8 inches of rain annually, making it appealing for outdoor activities.
Probably not your spot if you prefer public transit, as only 0.9% of residents commute that way.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,868, which reflects the area's rental demand.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $887,300, representing a significant purchase.
- 38.7% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, contributing to the community's educational character.
- The poverty rate is 11.6%, indicating some economic diversity within the population.
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, about 27.7% higher than the national average. However, property crime has seen a significant decline of 26.1% from 2022 to 2025.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100k vs. national rate of 325.3, with a 17.4% decrease since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100k vs. national rate of 1,546.9, with a 26.1% drop since 2022.
- Homicide rate: 3.2 per 100k, down 44.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
In Torrance, there are 29 postsecondary institutions available, including community colleges and vocational schools.
- El Camino Community College District
- Homestead Schools
- Redondo Beach Beauty College
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES.
Weather & Getting Outside
Torrance experiences an average annual precipitation of 18.8 inches, with about 32 rainy days each year. The area has pleasant weather for outdoor activities, especially with nearby parks.
- Hilltop Park - 4.8 stars (5,158 reviews)
- Charles H. Wilson Park - 4.7 stars (4,221 reviews)
- Palos Verdes Estates Shoreline Preserve - 4.8 stars (2,923 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Los Angeles County, the unemployment rate is currently at 5.0%, with a labor force of about 5,148,903 people.
- Unemployment rate: 5.0% as of December 2025.
- Employed: 4,889,561 individuals.
- Labor force: 5,148,903 individuals.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.