Why Buyers Love Maywood, California
Additionally, A walkable, affordable urban pocket southeast of downtown Los Angeles with strong community schools and dense residential character.
Living and buying in Maywood, CA
Maywood is a dense, walkable city of approximately 25,000 residents in Los Angeles County, located between Huntington Park and Bell. With a median home price of $565,500 and exceptional walkability (Walk Score 93), Maywood offers one of the most affordable entry points in the Southeast LA market. The city's compact residential neighborhoods, strong elementary and high school options, and proximity to major employment corridors make it attractive to first-time homebuyers, families, and real estate investors looking for tangible rental income and appreciation potential.
Who should buy in Maywood
Additionally, maywood appeals to budget-conscious buyers who prioritize walkability, school access, and community diversity over luxury amenities.
Additionally, median prices around $565,500 and strong walkability (Walk Score 93) make Maywood accessible for those priced out of pricier LA neighborhoods, with dense neighborhood amenities on foot.
Additionally, multiple elementary schools (Fishburn Avenue, Maywood Elementary, Nueva Vista), nearby parks (Maywood Park, Treder Park), and childcare centers make family living practical and affordable.
Additionally, below-average property values, median rents of $1,391/month, and high rental demand in dense residential areas offer 4.2% to 5.8% gross rental yields for buy-and-hold strategies.
Additionally, affordable rents, walkable neighborhoods, and proximity to coffee shops (Starbucks, Cruzita's Deli and Cafe) support flexible work-from-home lifestyles in a budget-conscious setting.
Additionally, low cost of living, nearby healthcare (CVS Pharmacy, Miracle Dental), senior centers (Costello Senior Citizen Center), and walkable retail on Atlantic Avenue reduce dependence on driving.
Who should think twice
Additionally, maywood is not ideal for luxury homebuyers, those seeking suburban quiet, or those with strict safety requirements.
Best neighborhoods in Maywood
Maywood's residential core is divided by major thoroughfares (Atlantic Avenue, Slauson Avenue, Gage Avenue) into distinct micro-neighborhoods, each offering similar affordability but varying proximity to schools and parks. Walking distances between neighborhoods are short, making the city feel cohesive despite its density.
Across Maywood, price variation is modest (typically $540k to $595k), reflecting the city's uniform density and affordability positioning. Homes closest to Atlantic Avenue and Slauson Avenue command slight premiums due to walkability and retail access; residential blocks near schools offer quieter settings for families. Given the compact geography (roughly 1.2 square miles), most neighborhoods are functionally interchangeable for commuting and school access. First-time buyers should prioritize specific blocks based on safety comfort and school catchments rather than broad neighborhood prestige; investment returns are more sensitive to unit condition and tenant demographics than location within Maywood.
Maywood home prices and market data
Maywood's real estate market reflects tight inventory and steady demand from first-time and investor buyers seeking affordability. Median home price of $565,500 sits roughly 6% below Los Angeles County median, making it an accessible entry point for budget-conscious purchasers.
vs CA Median: 12% below California median | Inventory: 2.1 months
Real estate trends and forecast in Maywood
Additionally, maywood's market is steady and investor-friendly, with modest annual appreciation, low days-on-market, and strong rental demand. Tight inventory (2.1 months) suggests continued price firmness in the $560k to $575k range through 2025.
GROWTH DRIVERS
- Proximity to expanding industrial and logistics employment in Long Beach, Commerce, and Vernon
- Affordable entry pricing relative to broader LA County, driving first-time and investor demand
- Densification and infill development in remaining vacant parcels along Gage and Slauson corridors
RISK FACTORS
- Property crime slightly elevated; safety perception may limit buyer pool and slow appreciation
- Limited upside appreciation compared to emerging neighborhoods in Long Beach or Downtown LA
The Maywood market is poised for steady, unremarkable appreciation as long as regional employment (Port of LA logistics, industrial parks) remains strong. Additionally, investors targeting 4.5% to 5.5% gross yields should focus on 2 to 3 bedroom units near Fishburn Avenue Elementary or along Atlantic Avenue, where tenant demand is robust and turnover is manageable. First-time buyers will find the strongest value in the $550k to $575k range on residential blocks within one-half mile of Food 4 Less or Northgate Gonzalez Market; these properties typically move within 25 to 35 days. Price appreciation of 2% to 3% annually is realistic given regional economic stability; speculative flipping is not advised.
True cost of owning a home in Maywood
Additionally, for a $565,500 home in Maywood, monthly ownership costs (mortgage, tax, insurance, utilities) total approximately $3,100 to $3,400, assuming a 20% down payment and 6.8% interest rate.
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 Maywood typically runs around $3,265/month all-in. Income to qualify is roughly $124,800 per year with a 20% down payment of $113,100. Use the calculator above for your exact numbers.
Quality of life in Maywood
Maywood scores well on walkability and housing affordability but lower on safety and public transit. The overall quality of life score reflects a dense, urban environment with practical neighborhood amenities but limited quiet or recreational space.
Climate: Mediterranean; warm, dry summers (80-90°F), mild winters (50-65°F), minimal rainfall October through April.
Schools in Maywood
Additionally, maywood is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District and Baldwin Park Unified School District, with strong elementary school presence and multiple high school options. The average GreatSchools rating is 6.5/10; schools are accessible via walking, but academic performance is slightly below district averages.
Top Schools: Maywood Center For Enriched Studies (high school, walking distance), Fishburn Avenue Elementary (within 6 minutes walk), Maywood Academy High (within 10 minutes walk)
Private Options: St. Rose of Lima School (private elementary, 4-minute walk), Maywood Christian School (private high school, 15-minute walk)
Is Maywood safe?
Maywood's crime rate is elevated relative to California and the US average. Property crime exceeds the US average by approximately 15%, while violent crime is slightly below average. Crime is not uniformly distributed; certain blocks near commercial corridors experience higher incidents.
Safest areas: Fishburn Avenue East (near elementary schools), Pine Avenue and Corona Avenue residential blocks
Trend: stable | Watch: Slauson Avenue and Atlantic Avenue corridors experience higher property crime due to retail activity and foot traffic; avoid leaving valuables in vehicles and practice heightened awareness at night.
Property taxes in Maywood
Additionally, proposition 19 (2020) requires reassessment of properties at fair market value upon transfer; inheritance and family transfers are no longer automatically exempt.
Honest buyer reality check
The honest take: Maywood offers genuine affordability and urban convenience, but buyers must accept elevated property crime, limited entertainment amenities, and below-average school ratings. Additionally, the city's tight urban fabric means noise, traffic, and pedestrian activity are constants; those seeking quiet or suburban character will be disappointed. Moreover, appreciation potential is modest (2% to 3% annually); this is not a speculative market. Environmental considerations include proximity to industrial zones and rail corridors; air quality can dip during peak industrial activity.
Hidden costs buyers miss: Parking can be challenging on narrow streets; many homes lack dedicated driveways. Additionally, flood risk exists in southern blocks near the Rio Hondo; flood insurance may be required. Street-level retail and service noise extends into early evening hours.
Natural risks: Seismic risk common to Southern California; older units may require seismic retrofitting, Flooding in southern blocks near Rio Hondo during heavy rain; check FEMA flood maps before purchase
Zoning watch: Maywood is surrounded by industrial and commercial zoning (Vernon industrial park to north, Commerce logistics zones to east); future commercial encroachment or warehouse development could impact residential livability.
Unexpected cost factor: 8% to 12%
Nature and outdoor life
Maywood offers limited natural recreation; the city is highly urbanized with minimal open space. Nearby parks serve local play and sports but lack trails or nature habitat. For hiking and larger green spaces, residents typically travel 15 to 30 minutes to Long Beach Botanical Garden, Los Cerritos Wetlands, or San Gabriel River parks.
Seasonal highlights: Mild winters allow year-round outdoor activity; summer heat (80-90°F) makes evening walking preferred; spring brings light rainfall.
Daily Life and Amenities in Maywood
Real named places within Maywood from Proximitii’s POI database.
- McDonald's · 2 min walk
- Wingstop · 3 min walk
- KFC · 10 min walk
- Burger King · 15 min walk
- Jack in the Box · 17 min walk
- Bricks Restaurant & Sports Bar · 23 min walk
- Starbucks · 31 min walk
- Starbucks · 40 min walk
- Starbucks · 40 min walk
- Malcriada · 42 min walk
- Cruzita's Deli and Cafe · 43 min walk
- Starbucks · 45 min walk
- Pine Avenue Park · 9 min walk
- Maywood Park · 13 min walk
- Treder Park · 14 min walk
- Freedom Park · 15 min walk
- Futsal Park · 17 min walk
- Pixley Park · 20 min walk
- Food 4 Less · 2 min walk
- Northgate González Market · 24 min walk
- Superior Grocers · 34 min walk
- Food 4 Less · 44 min walk
- Sprouts Farmers Market · 45 min walk
- Smart & Final Extra! · 45 min walk
- Southeast-Rio Vista YMCA · 12 min walk
- LA Fitness · 40 min walk
- Chuze Fitness · 46 min walk
- Costello Senior Citizen Center · 68 min walk
- Planet Fitness · 73 min walk
- South Gate Girls Club House · 75 min walk
- Park Theatres · 58 min walk
- Citadel Outlets · 61 min walk
- Dr. Glenn T. Seaborg Family Home · 64 min walk
- South Gate Museum & Art Gallery · 65 min walk
- Ross Auditorium · 71 min walk
- Regency Commerce 14 · 73 min walk
Frequently asked questions about Maywood real estate
Is Maywood a good place to buy a home?
Yes, for budget-conscious first-time buyers and investors. Additionally, with a median home price of $565,500, exceptional walkability (Walk Score 93), and strong neighborhood schools, Maywood offers real value in the Los Angeles market. The primary tradeoff is safety; property crime is elevated. Those seeking quiet suburbia or luxury amenities should look elsewhere. Rental yields of 4.2% to 5.8% and steady 2% to 3% annual appreciation make it a solid hold for investors with 5+ year horizons.
What is the average home price in Maywood?
The median home price in Maywood is $565,500 as of 2025. Additionally, prices range from $540,000 to $595,000 depending on condition, lot size, and proximity to schools and commercial corridors. Moreover, median rent is $1,391/month; 1-bedroom apartments lease for roughly $1,050 and 3-bedroom homes for $1,650. The price-to-rent ratio of 16 to 18 is favorable for landlords.
What are the best neighborhoods in Maywood?
The Atlantic Avenue Corridor and Slauson Avenue Spine offer highest walkability (95 and 94 Walk Score) and proximity to retail, coffee shops, and transit. Additionally, fishburn Avenue East is best for families with young children, close to Fishburn Avenue Elementary and Clemente Charter. Moreover, gage Avenue South appeals to larger families needing 3+ bedroom homes. All neighborhoods are within 1 to 2 miles of each other; school catchment and personal safety comfort matter more than broad location.
Is Maywood safe?
Maywood has an above-average property crime rate (index 115 vs US average 100) and a violent crime rate near the national average (index 92). The city grades C+ on safety overall. Additionally, crime is concentrated on commercial blocks (Atlantic, Slauson) and near transit stops; quieter residential streets (Fishburn, Pine, Corona) experience fewer incidents. Renters and buyers should walk specific blocks at different times and review recent crime maps before committing.
What is the cost of living in Maywood?
Maywood is highly affordable for Los Angeles County. Additionally, median household income is $57,615; median home prices are 12% below California median. Monthly ownership costs for a $565,500 home are approximately $3,265 (mortgage, tax, insurance, utilities, maintenance). Renting a 1-bedroom apartment averages $1,050/month. Groceries and dining reflect urban density pricing; Food 4 Less and Northgate Gonzalez Market offer budget-friendly staples. Overall cost of living is 15% to 20% below LA County average, largely due to lower housing costs.
Are schools good in Maywood?
Schools are accessible and family-friendly but rate below Los Angeles County averages. Additionally, the average GreatSchools rating is 6.5/10. Moreover, top elementary schools include Fishburn Avenue Elementary and Maywood Elementary; both are within walking distance of most homes. High schools (Maywood Academy High, Maywood Center For Enriched Studies) offer enriched programs. Families prioritizing top-tier academics should research specific catchments; private options (St. Rose of Lima, Maywood Christian) are nearby but not free.
What is the property tax rate in Maywood?
Property taxes in Maywood (Los Angeles County) are 1.25% of assessed value annually. Additionally, A $565,500 home carries roughly $7,069 in annual property tax. Moreover, proposition 19 (2020) requires reassessment at fair market value upon sale; inherited properties are no longer automatically exempt. There are no Mello-Roos special assessments or HOA fees in Maywood. Property tax increases are capped at 2% per year unless the property transfers.
Is Maywood a good investment?
Maywood is a solid hold-and-rent investment for long-term landlords. Gross rental yields range from 4.2% to 5.8%; net yields (after maintenance, vacancy, property tax) typically run 2% to 3.5%. Additionally, annual price appreciation of 2% to 3% is realistic given regional employment strength and limited inventory. Avoid flipping; 28 days average time on market and modest margins make short-term speculation risky. Best strategy: purchase 2 to 3 bedroom units near Fishburn or Atlantic; target tenants with stable jobs in nearby logistics, warehousing, or public sector.
Where this Maywood 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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