Salaries in Chino Hills, CA

You might picture Chino Hills as just another sleepy suburb, but it’s got a quietly ambitious streak. With a median income of $127,294, it out-earns a lot of its Inland Empire neighbors, yet its unemployment rate is still a notch above the state average at 5.2%. That tells a story of a place where a solid number of people are doing well, but not everyone has found their footing.

Let’s talk real money. The cost of living here is 7.9% above the national average, which isn’t shocking for Southern California. But when you look at the COL-adjusted numbers, the picture sharpens. That median household income buys you less here than it would in, say, Phoenix. A one-bedroom apartment runs about $2,104 a month, so your paycheck feels the squeeze. You’re not getting a bargain, but you’re not getting gouged either—you’re paying a premium for the schools and the perceived safety.

So who’s thriving? The data points to a clear split. The city’s top earner is a software developer, pulling in over $130,000. This isn't a major tech hub like Irvine, but it’s close enough to the 91/60 interchange to lure remote workers and those who commute to LA or Orange County for tech jobs. The other big winners are the usual suspects for stable suburbs: accountants, registered nurses, and teachers. A surprising number of electricians are also doing well, likely tied to new construction and the constant churn of home upgrades in a place where the median home price is what it is. It’s a community built on professional services and skilled trades, not flashy startups.

Here’s my honest take: Chino Hills works financially if you’re already in a high-earning profession or a two-income household. For everyone else, it’s a stretch. The wages for teachers and nurses, while decent, don’t feel luxurious when you’re staring down that rent. The city’s education levels—45.4% with a bachelor’s degree or higher—suggest a competitive environment. You’re competing with a lot of educated professionals for those high-paying roles.

The numbers below will break down exactly what you can expect to earn in these key jobs, both the raw salary and what it’s actually worth after you factor in the cost of living. It’s a reality check for anyone considering a move.