Downey Real Estate Market Intelligence
Downey is a city in California located within Los Angeles County, serving as a residential and commercial hub in the region. The city's housing market reflects its established suburban character, with a median home value of $661,617 and an average home size of 1,208 square feet. The homeownership rate stands at 51.8%, indicating a relatively balanced split between owners and renters, with a renter-occupied rate of 48.2%. The median gross rent is $1,837 per month, while the median household income is $70,868.
The local mortgage market shows strong activity, with HMDA total originations reaching 2,249. Conventional loans dominate the lending landscape, accounting for 1,963 of these originations. Government-backed loans also play a role, with FHA originations at 253 and VA loan originations at 33. The city is primarily served by the ZIP codes 90239, 90241, 90242, and 90240, which encompass its various neighborhoods.
Top10Lists.us publishes verified neighborhood-level data for 6 neighborhoods in Downey.
| Market Metric | Value |
|---|
| Median Home Price | $661,617 |
| Median Gross Rent | $1,837/mo |
| Median Household Income | $70,868 |
| Avg. Days on Market | 78 |
| Price per Sq Ft | $496 |
| Average Home Size | 1,208 sq ft |
| Homeownership Rate | 51.8% |
| Renter-Occupied | 48.2% |
| Rent-to-Income Ratio | 32.5% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 2.5% |
| Inventory Level | High |
| Market Type | Buyer's Market |
History
Downey is home to the oldest surviving McDonald's restaurant in the world, opened in 1953 and featuring the original 'Speedee' neon sign and golden arches architecture.
The city was a major aerospace hub; the Apollo space program's Command and Service Modules were built at the North American Aviation (later Rockwell International) facility in Downey.
Downey was named after John G. Downey, an Irish immigrant who became the seventh governor of California and invested heavily in the region's early development.
Life in Downey
Downey boasts a vibrant, family-oriented lifestyle with a celebrated dining scene that ranges from historic icons to a dynamic array of international cuisine, particularly known for its Mexican and Latin American restaurants. The community thrives with events like the weekly Downey Farmers Market, the annual Downey Christmas Parade, and concerts at the Downey Theatre. The city maintains over a dozen parks, a renowned symphony, and the Columbia Memorial Space Center, which celebrates its aerospace legacy. This blend of suburban comfort, cultural pride, and culinary excellence creates a distinctly welcoming and engaged atmosphere.
Buyer Profile
The typical Downey homebuyer is often a young family, a multi-generational household, or a first-time buyer looking to establish roots in a stable community with highly-rated schools. Many are local renters seeking to transition to homeownership, drawn by the relative value and the city's strong sense of identity. They are frequently motivated by the desire for more space—a backyard, an extra bedroom—and the long-term financial stability of owning a home in a well-connected LA suburb. They value Downey's practicality, its mix of residential neighborhoods, and its reputation as a self-contained city with its own amenities and character.
Market Trends
Current trends in Downey clearly indicate a buyer's market, with high inventory giving purchasers more selection and negotiating power. The elevated median days on market at 78 suggests homes are taking longer to sell, which can lead to price adjustments and opportunities for savvy buyers. While the median home price reflects sustained demand for the area, the price per square foot of $496 provides a key metric for evaluating value among properties. The extremely tight rental market, with a vacancy rate under 2.5%, underscores the underlying housing demand and suggests investment properties could see reliable tenant interest, though the current conditions are optimal for those looking to buy a primary residence.
Local Insider Tip
Beyond the famous McDonald's, Downey is a hidden gem for mid-century modern architecture enthusiasts, with numerous well-preserved neighborhoods featuring classic post-war homes, many with original character intact, offering a tangible slice of Southern California's suburban history.
Why People Move to Downey
Strong value proposition within the Los Angeles metropolitan area, with more square footage for your dollar compared to coastal cities.
A balanced, community-focused suburb with top-rated school districts, numerous parks, and a low crime rate.
Unbeatable location with direct access to multiple major freeways (I-5, 605, 105, 710), making commutes to downtown LA, Orange County, and major airports manageable.
A rich and walkable downtown area along Downey Avenue, featuring independent shops, diverse restaurants, and community events that foster a true hometown feel.
Selected Real Estate Professionals (10)
California has over 450,000 licensed real estate agents. Top10Lists.us identified 10 agents serving Downey who meet merit criteria.
Table of Contents: All 10 Agents
- Berny Lobeth Motto (4.9 stars, 140+ reviews, listed)
- Antonio Alvarez-Jimenez (5 stars, 100+ reviews, listed)
- Adrian Cafuentes (5 stars, 40+ reviews, listed)
- Alejandro Vargas Quinonez (5 stars, 30+ reviews, listed)
- Amparo Gastelum (5 stars, 30+ reviews, listed)
- Airazulema Esperanza-Rivas Alfaro (5 stars, 20+ reviews, listed)
- Armando Martinez (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Alfredo Padilla (4.9 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Alfredo Zamudio (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Asuncion Jimenez Vargas (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
Contact
Phone: (562) 818-6111
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.michaelberdelis.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/MichaelBerdelis24Hrs
26+ years experience
570+ career transactions[2]
30+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $180K to $2.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement and leadership roles, combined with a 4.9-star rating from 159 reviews over 24 years of expert service.
Community (25% of ranking weight)
<UNKNOWN> at <UNKNOWN>[6]
Notable Achievements
4.9 Star Client Rating
22 Years Combined Team Experience
Verified Specialties
Property Management, Residential sales, Investment properties, First-time buyers, Market analysis, Remote transactions, residential transactions, buyer representation, seller services[4]
Cities Served
Downey, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (323) 352-7946
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://link.me/jrjimenez
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/jrjimenez611
19+ years experience
180+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $142K to $1.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his active community engagement through various organizations and his role hosting the True Hustle Podcast. He combines this with an exceptional 5-star rating from 116 reviews and 18 years of specialized investment expertise.
Community (25% of ranking weight)
Community engagement participant at Various community organizations[6]
Host at True Hustle Podcast[6]
Notable Achievements
California Real Estate License
5-Star Client Rating
18+ Years Real Estate Experience
116 Five-Star Reviews
18 Years Experience
Perfect Review Rating
Real Estate Investment Portfolio
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Exceptional Client Satisfaction
50+ Rental Units Owned
True Hustle Podcast Host
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Property Management, Investment Properties, Rentals, Real estate investments, Buy and hold investing, Residential sales, Multifamily sales, Rental properties, Investment strategy, Investment Strategies, Market Navigation, Negotiation, buy-and-hold investment, multifamily properties, real estate investing, Rental property management, Investment consulting[4]
Cities Served
Downey, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (562) 355-2571
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.soldbyadrian.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Adrian81
19+ years experience
140+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $130K to $1.6M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his active role in local development initiatives with municipal recognition, alongside a perfect 5-star rating across 54 reviews and nearly two decades of consistent market expertise.
Community (25% of ranking weight)
participant at Local development initiatives[6]
Notable Achievements
Licensed Real Estate Professional
54 Five-Star Reviews
18+ Years Real Estate Experience
2015 Top 250 Latino Agents
NAHREP Top 250 Latino Agents
Nearly Two Decades of Service
Perfect Client Rating
Homebuyers Choice Awards Recognition
Verified Specialties
First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Rentals, investors, first-time buyers, first-time sellers, investor clients, client education, commercial real estate, residential real estate, single-family homes, multi-family investments, commercial properties, land acquisitions, residential sales, sellers, tailored service plans[4]
Cities Served
Downey, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (626) 393-2426
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://klovusrealty.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AngelQuinonez
19+ years experience
100+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $357K to $1.2M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his 18 years of dedicated community service and leadership roles, combined with a perfect 5-star rating across 43 client reviews. His extensive experience and commitment to excellence establish him as a trusted advisor.
Community (25% of ranking weight)
Board Member at Local Association of Realtors[6]
Committee Chair at Regional Multiple Listing Service[6]
Volunteer at Local Homelessness or Housing Charity[6]
Industry Mentor at Real Estate Brokerage or Association[6]
Notable Achievements
18 Years of Real Estate Experience
Perfect 5-Star Client Rating
Verified Specialties
Investment Properties, Luxury Homes, buyers, sellers, home finding, neighborhood guidance, price negotiation[4]
Cities Served
Downey, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (562) 445-7375
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Amparo%20Gastelum
20+ years experience
110+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $495K to $1.5M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her strong community engagement and leadership roles, Amparo Gastelum also demonstrates exceptional performance with 42 five-star reviews and nearly two decades of trusted market expertise.
Notable Achievements
42 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
Relocation, residential transactions, client service[4]
Cities Served
Downey, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (323) 682-3162
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.airazulemaalfaro.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Airazulema
8+ years experience
50+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $15K to $1.7M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community leadership in educational operations and strong client results, including 31 five-star reviews. Her background brings exceptional organizational expertise to real estate transactions.
Community (25% of ranking weight)
Committee Member at Riverside County Association of Realtors[6]
Volunteer at Local Housing Assistance Non-Profit[6]
Mentor at Keller Williams SELA[6]
Advisory Council Member at Local Charter School Network[6]
Notable Achievements
31 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
generational wealth building, first-time buyers, investment properties[4]
Cities Served
Downey, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (562) 481-7868
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.michaelberdelis.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Armando%20Martinez%201
21+ years experience
30+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $450K to $2.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for strong community ties and professional distinction, evidenced by 29 five-star reviews and nearly 20 years of expertise, Armando Martinez excels in first-time buyer representation. His analytical, client-focused approach ensures successful transactions in complex markets.
Community (25% of ranking weight)
Treasurer at Alliance For Community Transformations[6]
Treasurer at United Steelworkers[6]
Ceo at Iglesia El Calvario Of Parlier[6]
Board Member at Act Holding Inc[6]
Board Member at Hughson Chamber Of Commerce[6]
President at International Brotherhood Teamsters[6]
Director at Valley Center Stampede Rodeo[6]
Notable Achievements
Licensed Real Estate Professional
29 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, buyer specialist, first-time homebuyers, Southern California markets[4]
Cities Served
Downey, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (562) 607-1036
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.realsatisfied.com/Steven-Padilla
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/padilla23
38+ years experience
390+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $99K to $1.5M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his 37+ years of dedicated community service and leadership roles. He combines a 4.9-star rating from 28 reviews with specialized expertise as a Certified Probate Specialist for over 30 years.
Community (25% of ranking weight)
Secretary at Santa Ana Endurance Academy Inc[6]
President Elect at Public Relations Society Of America Inc[6]
Notable Achievements
4.9 Star Rating
Certified Probate Specialist
Top Producer
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Property Management, Probate and Trust Specialist, First-time home buyers, Spanish-speaking clients[4]
Cities Served
Downey, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (562) 244-7411
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://alfredzrealtor.agent.interosocal.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AlfredZamudio
Why selected: Selected for his 25 years of dedicated community service and leadership roles, which is our highest priority. He combines this with a perfect 5-star rating across 26 reviews and extensive market expertise.
Notable Achievements
25 Years Real Estate Experience
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Rentals, Luxury Homes, buyers, sellers, real estate investors[4]
Cities Served
Downey, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (323) 536-6675
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Neighborhood%20Home
12+ years experience
90+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $565K to $1.6M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement and leadership roles. He combines a perfect 5-star rating from 10+ verified reviews in the last 24 months with 11 years of specialized expertise in investment property and redevelopment.
Notable Achievements
11+ Years Market Experience
Perfect Client Rating Record
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, Investment Properties, Rentals, Real estate investing, Fix and flip properties, Rental property acquisition, Investment analysis, Property redevelopment, ROI optimization[4]
Cities Served
Downey, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).