Cost of Living in El Centro, CA
Population: 44,186 • 2026 Data
$56,093
Median Household Income
-28% vs national
$992
Median Monthly Rent
-26% vs national
$291,100
Median Home Value
-14% vs national
9.9%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in El Centro
The median home value in El Centro, CA is $291,100. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $992, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $1,117.
Rent-to-income ratio: 21.2%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in El Centro, CA is $56,093. The unemployment rate stands at 9.9%, with a labor force of 19,323 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.