Torrance, CA 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Climate & Geography

Residents of Torrance experience the famous California weather year-round. Due to Torrance’s close proximity to the Pacific Ocean, residents experience a Mediterranean climate. Therefore residents can expect warm, dry summers with cool, wet winters.

Recreation, Culture & Entertainment

Torrance Cultural Arts Center is a multipurpose complex with meeting and banquet rooms, visual and performing arts studios, and a 502-seat theater. In addition there are two outdoor plazas, and the authentic Pine Wind Japanese garden. Classes, events, and performances are offered throughout the year.

There are 35 parks in Torrance with various athletic courts like horseshoe courts, basketball courts, tennis courts, and softball diamonds.

At Madrona Marsh Nature Center retirees can take nature walks, tours, or bird watch. The marsh land is thought to be one of the last remaining vernal freshwater marshes in Los Angeles County. The marsh is home to 142 species of plants, 151 bird species, amphibians and reptiles, mammals, and 67 families of insects.

Redondo Beach Pier offers scenic oceanfront dining, shopping, and entertainment to residents. For active adults who enjoy water activities there are harbor cruises, seasonal whale watching, kayaking, and pedal boats. In addition a monthly free yoga class is offered on the boardwalk.

South Coast Botanic Garden is a 87-acre garden with more than 2500 species of plants. Various events are held throughout the year like the Incredible Journey and the Lost Secrets of South Coast Botanic Garden. The Great Pumpkin Hunt in October is popular with families, and fitness classes like yoga and tai chi are offered throughout the year.

For those interested in spending the day outside of the city, Torrance is less than an hour’s drive from downtown Los Angeles.

Cost of Living & Taxes

The cost of living in Torrance is significantly higher than the national and state average. Housing is the biggest factor at nearly triple the national average, and transportation, grocery, and miscellaneous factors contribute to the higher index as well. However, health care and utility costs are below the average.

There is no tax for Social Security or most Railroad Retirement benefits in the state of California, but all other retirement income is taxable. Residents who are 65+ are able to claim an additional $118 exemption from their tax bill. There is a 9.50 percent sales tax in Torrance.

Health Care

Torrance Memorial Medical Center is ranked No. 7 in the Los Angeles regional area and No. 12 in California. The hospital is nationally ranked in orthopedics and rated high performing in five adult specialties and nine procedures and conditions, according to U.S. News. Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance is  also rated high performing in orthopedics and high performing in three procedures and conditions, including colon cancer surgery, knee replacements, and heart failure.