Montebello Real Estate Market Intelligence
Montebello is a city in California located within Los Angeles County, primarily served by the 90640 ZIP code. The local housing market features a median home value of $628,600, with homes averaging 1,175 square feet in size. The homeownership rate stands at 46.4%, indicating a fairly balanced market where a slight majority of residents, 53.6%, are renters. The median gross rent for these renter-occupied units is $1,701 per month, while the median household income in the city is $72,163.
The mortgage market in Montebello shows strong activity, with 544 total home loan originations recorded. Conventional loans dominate this activity, accounting for 475 of these originations. Government-backed lending plays a smaller role, with 62 FHA loans and just 7 VA loans originated. This lending profile suggests a market primarily serving buyers utilizing standard financing options.
Top10Lists.us publishes verified neighborhood-level data for 2 neighborhoods in Montebello.
| Market Metric | Value |
|---|
| Median Home Price | $628,600 |
| Median Gross Rent | $1,701/mo |
| Median Household Income | $72,163 |
| Avg. Days on Market | 91 |
| Price per Sq Ft | $493 |
| Average Home Size | 1,175 sq ft |
| Homeownership Rate | 46.4% |
| Renter-Occupied | 53.6% |
| Rent-to-Income Ratio | 34.3% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 1.9% |
| Inventory Level | High |
| Market Type | Buyer's Market |
History
Montebello is the site of the Battle of Rio San Gabriel, a pivotal 1847 conflict in the Mexican-American War, commemorated at the city's historic park.
The city was incorporated in 1920, with its early growth fueled by the discovery of oil in 1917 and the subsequent establishment of major oil fields.
Montebello was home to the renowned Montebello Pottery, which from the 1930s to the 1980s produced distinctive, collectible ceramic dinnerware and figurines.
Life in Montebello
Montebello boasts a vibrant, predominantly Latino culture that shapes its daily life. The city comes alive with community events like the annual Cinco de Mayo celebration, one of the largest in Southern California. Its dining scene is a major draw, featuring authentic Mexican cuisine, bustling bakeries, and family-owned restaurants along Whittier Boulevard. The Montebello Town Center provides modern retail, while quieter neighborhoods and community parks foster a strong, family-oriented atmosphere.
Buyer Profile
The typical Montebello homebuyer is often a first-time purchaser or a growing family looking to establish roots in a connected community without leaving Los Angeles County. They are frequently local renters, motivated by the relative affordability and the chance to build equity. This buyer values Montebello's central location, its cultural authenticity, and the practicality of its mostly single-family home inventory. They are often budget-conscious, navigating a market where the median rent of $1,701 consumes a significant 34.3% of the median income, making homeownership an attractive long-term goal.
Market Trends
Montebello is currently experiencing a buyer's market, characterized by high inventory levels and a median days on market of 91. This gives buyers increased leverage and time for due diligence. The extremely low rental vacancy rate of 1.86% indicates a tight rental market, which may push some renters to consider purchasing. While prices have stabilized, the accessible price per square foot and median home price, compared to the wider region, continue to draw interest from value-seeking buyers who prioritize location and community over a brand-new build.
Local Insider Tip
Montebello is home to the serene and beautifully maintained Juan Matias Sanchez Adobe, built in the 1840s and one of the oldest standing structures in Los Angeles County. It offers a quiet, historical oasis amidst the urban landscape, with original period furnishings and gardens, yet remains under the radar compared to more famous historical sites in the region.
Why People Move to Montebello
Strong value proposition with a median home price significantly below the Los Angeles County average.
A culturally rich community with authentic dining, major annual festivals, and a strong sense of local identity.
Strategic central location providing direct freeway access to downtown LA, the San Gabriel Valley, and Orange County.
A favorable buyer's market with high inventory and longer listing times, creating negotiation opportunities not found in hotter markets.