Living in Inglewood, California: Benefits, Market Data, and Neighborhoods
Additionally, inglewood is a dynamic South Los Angeles community known for walkability, transit access, and entertainment venues like SoFi Stadium.
Living and buying in Inglewood, CA
Inglewood is a vibrant South Los Angeles city of 106,806 residents that combines urban walkability with solid transit infrastructure. With a median home value of $689,700 and a walk score of 83 (very walkable), the city appeals to first-time buyers, families, and remote workers seeking affordability relative to nearby West Los Angeles. Additionally, the median household income of $67,563 reflects a working-class community where homeownership remains attainable, and the 35.5% owner-occupied rate signals a stable residential base. Recent development activity, including the SoFi Stadium complex and the new Cinepolis cinema, has strengthened Inglewood's profile as a destination with urban amenities and strong walkability.
Who should buy in Inglewood
Inglewood serves first-time buyers, working families, and investors seeking walkable neighborhoods with transit access and below-county-average prices.
Median price of $689,700 and $67,563 median household income align well for qualified first-time buyers in the LA metro; strong walkability reduces transportation costs.
Additionally, inglewood offers proximity to public schools (Kelso Elementary, Inglewood High), multiple childcare options including A Bright Beginning, and family-friendly parks like Queen Park and Grevillea Art Park.
Additionally, median rent of $1,666/month on $689,700 median price yields 2.9% to 3.4% rental income; gentrification trends around the stadium district suggest upside potential.
Additionally, walk score of 83 and transit score of 54 support car-free or car-light lifestyles; walkable downtown and entertainment amenities make daily life convenient without long commutes.
Additionally, excellent healthcare access (Centinela Hospital, multiple pharmacies), low-stress transit corridors, and diverse dining and entertainment options near SoFi Stadium and YouTube Theater.
Who should think twice
Buyers seeking premium schools, ultra-luxury properties, or car-independent suburban living should explore neighboring communities.
Best neighborhoods in Inglewood
Additionally, inglewood's neighborhoods range from revitalized downtown near the stadium district to classic working-class residential pockets. Each area offers distinct walkability, safety profiles, and price points suited to different buyer needs.
Inglewood's neighborhood diversity means a buyer can find anything from walkable urban living near the stadium to classic single-family residential on tree-lined streets. The city's revitalization around the entertainment district has lifted nearby property values, while older neighborhoods to the south and west offer better affordability for price-sensitive buyers. Walkability is strong across most of the city (83 overall), making car-light living feasible for those near downtown, though south and west pockets dip to the low-to-mid 70s. Traffic and noise from the 405 Freeway and LAX should factor into site-specific due diligence, particularly for homes near major arteries.
All neighborhoods in Inglewood
Additionally, browse detailed buyer guides for every Inglewood neighborhood we cover, including local market data, walkability, schools, and lifestyle.
Inglewood home prices and market data
Additionally, inglewood's median home price of $689,700 sits about 18% below the Los Angeles County median. The rental market at $1,666/month reflects strong demand for multifamily inventory and continued gentrification pressure.
vs CA Median: 18% below California median of $842,000 | Inventory: 3.8 months
Real estate trends and forecast in Inglewood
Additionally, inglewood's real estate market is in a slow-growth phase with modest price appreciation (3.2% YoY) and balanced supply-demand dynamics. The SoFi Stadium redevelopment and entertainment district expansion have catalyzed long-term optimism, though short-term momentum remains subdued.
GROWTH DRIVERS
- SoFi Stadium and YouTube Theater entertainment district expansion
- Metro transit infrastructure improvements and bus rapid transit corridors
- Urban infill redevelopment and mixed-use projects in downtown
RISK FACTORS
- Rising property taxes and potential LA County reassessments post-Prop 19
- Commercial property vacancy rates and retail retail concentration risk in entertainment district
Inglewood's outlook is moderately positive over the next 3 to 5 years, anchored by continued SoFi Stadium and entertainment venue maturation. Additionally, downtown and Stadium District properties (especially walkable lofts and new condos priced $650k to $850k) have the strongest appreciation potential as the district attracts workers and visitors. Stabilized family residential pockets in North Inglewood offer reliable rental yields and steady demand but slower price growth. Investors should monitor LA County reassessment activity post-Prop 19 and retail dynamics around the entertainment district; suburban and south-side neighborhoods (sub-$700k price points) appeal to value-oriented buyers but offer modest upside.
True cost of owning a home in Inglewood
Additionally, monthly ownership costs for a typical Inglewood home average around $4,100 to $4,500, including mortgage, taxes, insurance, and maintenance.
Additionally, mortgage, taxes, insurance, HOA, utilities, and maintenance add up fast. Use Ficustree’s True Cost of Ownership calculator to model the full monthly carrying cost for your specific price point, county, and loan terms before you commit.
For a quick anchor, a $500K home in Inglewood typically runs around $3,780/month all-in. Income to qualify is roughly $144,000/yr with a 20% down payment of $137,940. Use the calculator above for your exact numbers.
Quality of life in Inglewood
Inglewood scores a 71/100 overall livability rating, reflecting strong walkability and transit access balanced against moderate safety and traffic concerns. The city offers solid access to healthcare, parks, and entertainment venues that enhance daily living.
Climate: Mediterranean with warm, dry summers (80s to low 90s) and mild winters (50s to 70s); minimal rainfall concentrated in winter months; excellent year-round outdoor accessibility.
Schools in Inglewood
Additionally, inglewood Unified School District serves the city with a mixed portfolio of traditional public and charter schools. GreatSchools average rating of 7/10 indicates adequate schools, but families seeking top-tier academic performance may explore magnet programs or private options.
Top Schools: Kelso (William H.) Elementary, Inglewood High, City Honors College Preparatory Academy
Private Options: St. Mary's Academy, Slauson Learning Center, Canterbury Academy
Is Inglewood safe?
Inglewood's crime profile is mixed, with property crime running above the national average while violent crime is slightly below. The city has experienced modest crime reduction over the past three years, though certain neighborhoods warrant careful attention.
Safest areas: North Inglewood (Kelso area, near family neighborhoods), West Inglewood (near commercial strips with visibility)
Trend: improving | Watch: South Inglewood near La Brea and Century Boulevard experiences higher property crime and warrants neighborhood-specific due diligence; visit at different times of day before committing.
Property taxes in Inglewood
Additionally, properties transferring to non-family members will be reassessed at full market value; existing homeowners benefit from Prop 13 protections capped at 2% annual increases.
Honest buyer reality check
The honest take: Inglewood is fundamentally a working-class city with solid infrastructure and walkability, but it lacks the school quality and safety reputation of wealthier West LA or Torrance suburbs. The SoFi Stadium district has created pockets of new wealth and development, but these improvements are uneven; many blocks still show signs of aging infrastructure, street-level vacancies, and higher-than-average property crime. Buyers must be willing to trade some safety and school prestige for affordability and walkability. The city's appreciation has been steady but unspectacular; treat this as a stable long-term hold rather than a quick flip opportunity.
Hidden costs buyers miss: Street parking can be difficult near downtown; many blocks require permits. Additionally, HOA fees are uncommon, but some newer condos near the stadium carry $300 to $500/month reserves. Moreover, freeway noise affects homes near the 405 and near Manchester Boulevard; factor in potential soundproofing costs. Flooding risk is low but storm water management issues persist in south Inglewood.
Natural risks: Minor seismic activity typical of LA metro; most homes meet modern earthquake codes, Limited flood risk in most of the city; check FEMA maps for specific properties
Zoning watch: Downtown Inglewood is mixed-use with commercial and residential overlay; new tenants and businesses can bring noise and traffic. Industrial zones on the south and west edges may produce occasional odors or truck traffic.
Unexpected cost factor: 8%
Nature and outdoor life
Additionally, inglewood offers solid park access with Queen Park, Grevillea Art Park, and Darby Park providing recreational space. Proximity to the Los Angeles River Bike Path and connections to regional trail networks make outdoor exploration accessible for active residents.
Seasonal highlights: Spring brings wildflowers in LA River areas; summer heat peaks in July-August but is moderated by coastal marine layer; fall offers mild hiking conditions; winter rainfall is occasional but can cause temporary flooding in low-lying park areas.
Daily Life and Amenities in Inglewood
Real named places within Inglewood from Proximitii’s POI database.
- Sizzler · 5 min walk
- Domino's Pizza Inglewood · 10 min walk
- McDonald's · 10 min walk
- Domino's · 13 min walk
- Stuff I Eat · 13 min walk
- McDonald's · 21 min walk
- Starbucks · 5 min walk
- Starbucks · 22 min walk
- Starbucks · 30 min walk
- Starbucks · 31 min walk
- Starbucks · 37 min walk
- Starbucks · 49 min walk
- Queen Park · 9 min walk
- Grevillea Art Park · 14 min walk
- Darby Park · 24 min walk
- Vons · 7 min walk
- El Super Mexican Supermarket · 31 min walk
- ALDI · 34 min walk
- Food 4 Less · 35 min walk
- Ralphs · 36 min walk
- Randy’s Donuts · 37 min walk
- Judith And Thomas L. Beckman Yola Center · 15 min walk
- Iconix Fitness · 21 min walk
- Girl Scouts Greater Los Angeles · 23 min walk
- LA Fitness · 27 min walk
- La Tijera Community Center · 53 min walk
- LA Fitness · 68 min walk
- Miracle Theater · 11 min walk
- SoFi Stadium · 13 min walk
- YouTube Theater · 17 min walk
- Residency Art Gallery · 20 min walk
- Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas Inglewood IMAX · 20 min walk
- Inglewood Playhouse · 31 min walk
Frequently asked questions about Inglewood real estate
Is Inglewood a good place to buy a home?
Yes, for buyers prioritizing walkability, affordability, and transit access over top-tier schools and premium safety ratings. Inglewood's median home price of $689,700 sits 18% below the California average, making it accessible for first-time buyers and families. The city's walk score of 83 and transit score of 54 support car-light living, especially in downtown and North Inglewood neighborhoods. Recent SoFi Stadium and entertainment district development has catalyzed modest appreciation and long-term investment potential, though expect steady rather than explosive growth.
What is the average home price in Inglewood?
The median home price in Inglewood is $689,700, with condos averaging around $485,000. Additionally, single-family homes in North Inglewood and near family-oriented neighborhoods range from $620,000 to $750,000. Downtown and Stadium District properties, including new mixed-use developments, typically list between $650,000 and $850,000. South Inglewood offers more affordable entry points at $550,000 to $700,000, though with lower walkability and transit scores.
Which neighborhoods in Inglewood are best for families?
North Inglewood (Kelso Elementary area) and West Inglewood are the most family-friendly, offering quiet residential streets, proximity to parks like Queen Park and Grevillea Art Park, and walkable access to schools and grocery stores including Vons. Additionally, these neighborhoods have walk scores around 80 to 83 and medium-to-high safety ratings relative to the city average. Downtown Inglewood and Stadium District are increasingly family-oriented with new amenities, but noise and traffic from entertainment venues should factor into site selection.
Is Inglewood safe?
Inglewood has a C+ safety grade with property crime running above the national average (index 118) and violent crime slightly below (index 95). North Inglewood neighborhoods are notably safer than south and west pockets. Additionally, the city has experienced modest crime reduction over three years, driven by commercial development and increased police presence around the SoFi Stadium district. Buyers should conduct neighborhood-specific due diligence, visit at different times of day, and verify exact block-level crime data before purchasing.
What is the cost of living in Inglewood?
Inglewood's cost of living is below the LA County and California averages, with affordability score of 74/100. Additionally, median household income is $67,563/yr; monthly ownership costs for a $500k home average $3,780 (mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance). Moreover, rental costs are moderate at $1,420 to $1,910 for one to three-bedroom units. Grocery, dining, and service costs are consistent with greater LA; walkable downtown access reduces transportation expenses for car-light households.
How are schools in Inglewood?
Inglewood Unified School District schools average 7/10 on GreatSchools, indicating adequate but not top-tier performance. Additionally, kelso Elementary and Inglewood High are the most established public schools. Moreover, city Honors College Preparatory Academy and private options like St. Mary's Academy serve families seeking advanced academics or alternative curricula. Families prioritizing top-rated schools should explore magnet programs or consider neighboring districts like Torrance or Redondo Beach.
What are property taxes in Inglewood?
Los Angeles County property tax rate is 0.76% of assessed value. Additionally, on a $500,000 home, expect approximately $3,800 in annual property taxes. Moreover, prop 13 caps annual increases at 2% for existing homeowners, protecting long-term residents from rapid tax hikes. Properties transferring to non-family members will be reassessed at full market value under Prop 19. Most Inglewood homes do not have HOA fees; newer condos near the stadium may carry $300 to $500/month reserves.
Is Inglewood a good investment?
Inglewood is a HOLD for investors, with rental yields of 2.9% to 3.4% and modest 3.2% year-over-year price growth. Additionally, long-term appreciation (5-year: 12.8%, 10-year: 31.5%) is solid, particularly in downtown and Stadium District properties as entertainment venues mature. Moreover, value investors find opportunities in south and west Inglewood neighborhoods (sub-$700k) offering stable tenancy and reliable cash flow. Avoid speculative strategies; treat Inglewood as a steady, car-light rental market with moderate upside tied to regional transit improvements and metro development.
Where this Inglewood data comes from
All numbers come from public, authoritative sources you can verify yourself. Additionally, we pull median home values and demographic profiles from the U.S. Census Bureau, walk and transit ratings from Walk Score, school information from GreatSchools, and geographic boundaries from OpenStreetMap.
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