2024 Best Suburbs to Live in the Los Angeles Area

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Works Here: Santa Monica is a vibrant and picturesque coastal city with a lot to offer. I loved the beautiful beaches, the iconic Santa Monica Pier with its lively atmosphere, and the variety of dining and shopping options along the Third Street Promenade. The city's commitment to sustainability and its numerous parks and green spaces also stood out to me. However, the high cost of living can be challenging, and I would like to see more affordable housing options to make the city accessible to a broader range of people. Overall, Santa Monica is a fantastic place with a unique charm.... Read 167 reviews
#1 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Santa Monica
Town in California,
167 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.
Featured Review: Works Here says Santa Monica is a vibrant and picturesque coastal city with a lot to offer. I loved the beautiful beaches, the iconic Santa Monica Pier with its lively atmosphere, and the variety of dining and....
Read 167 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 92,168,
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#2 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Hermosa Beach
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
59 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says I have lived here for 20+ years and love calling this city home. I am a young female and have never felt unsafe being in this area or walking alone. The city is small and walkable, there are....
Read 59 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 19,551,
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#3 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Redondo Beach
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
210 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says Redondo is a friendly neighborhood. A post office, pharmacy, grocery store are within walking distance. Many small parks around the neighborhood..
Read 210 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 70,620,
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SponsoredSchool District
Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District
School District·
PLACENTIA, CA
·
Rating 4.3 out of 5 152
SponsoredEpiscopal School
Episcopal High School
Private School·
ALEXANDRIA, VA·
9-12
·
Rating 4.43 out of 5 53
SponsoredCatholic School
St. Mary's Catholic School
Private School·
RICHMOND, VA·
PK, K-8
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Rating 3.13 out of 5 8
#4 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Manhattan Beach
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
95 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.
Featured Review: Nearby Resident says Everyone at Manhattan is extremely kind, there is never a dull moment. If you love having lunch with friends, spots near Manhattan are probably perfect for you..
Read 95 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 35,123,
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Current Resident: It's nice. It's safe as hell, it's within driving distance, within about 20 minutes to the beach, and about 3 or 4 hours to the mountains. There's shopping, there's decent places to eat in Irvine itself, and a bunch of great places all across OC within driving distance. Google Fiber is coming in the next few years (maybe not soon enough for your 2-year project) and the local cable provider (Cox Communications) is installing gigabit internet fiber across the city soon, too. The reasons not to live here are that it's boring, it's practically owned by the Irvine Corporation which raises rents on good restaurants and stores and forces them out, the home prices are very high, the homeowner's associations are the only legal gangs in the city (hyperbole, but never underestimate the spite-filled overly righteous board member senior citizens with too much time on their hands, walking around and tallying up infractions while everyone else is at work/school).... Read 631 reviews
#5 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Irvine
City in California,
631 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says It's nice. It's safe as hell, it's within driving distance, within about 20 minutes to the beach, and about 3 or 4 hours to the mountains. There's shopping, there's decent places to eat in Irvine...The reasons not to live here are that it's boring, it's practically owned by the Irvine Corporation which raises rents on good restaurants and stores and forces them out, the home prices are very....
Read 631 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 304,527,
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Current Resident: South Pasadena is a charming, small city with a warm, community-focused atmosphere. Its tree-lined streets and historic homes create a picturesque environment. The city offers excellent public schools, numerous parks, and a vibrant local culture with frequent community events. The Gold Line Metro provides easy access to downtown Los Angeles, enhancing convenience without sacrificing the suburban feel. The local shops and cafes add to the city's unique character, making it an ideal place for families and individuals alike.... Read 99 reviews
#6 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
South Pasadena
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
99 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says South Pasadena is a charming, small city with a warm, community-focused atmosphere. Its tree-lined streets and historic homes create a picturesque environment. The city offers excellent public....
Read 99 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 26,583,
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#7 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
La Cañada Flintridge
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
93 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says The community in La Canada is very close due to it being a small town. Neighbors know neighbors and everyone is friendly to each other. Although it is a small town, there are still many activities to....
Read 93 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 20,378,
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Current Resident: A family friendly area, Culver City has changed drastically in the last 10 years or so. I’ve lived in Culver since 2004; while the safety and family friendly nature of many neighborhoods remain, the overall atmosphere and cost has certainly changed. My biggest qualm nowadays is the cost of living of the area as well as the gentrification of certain areas such as downtown. These districts have costly stores and restaurants that are fun, but feel more akin to Beverly Hills. Culver is still a little quirky and I hope this culture remains.... Read 204 reviews
#8 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Culver City
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
204 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says A family friendly area, Culver City has changed drastically in the last 10 years or so. I’ve lived in Culver since 2004; while the safety and family friendly nature of many neighborhoods remain, the....
Read 204 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 40,357,
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Current Resident: I love the small town vibe it gives off, especially when raising children and growing a family. El Segundo is a semi unknown town in the greater LA area, and I would definitely say growing up in ES, the community feeling is so overwhelming that you would not feel alone. Furthermore, working in ES and for the City, I can say the organization and the care for workers felt through ES is extremely good. Nevertheless, I want ES to become more diverse rather than secluded and for people to reach out more rather than judge from the inside... Read 62 reviews
#9 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
El Segundo
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
62 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says I love the small town vibe it gives off, especially when raising children and growing a family. El Segundo is a semi unknown town in the greater LA area, and I would definitely say growing up in ES,....
Read 62 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 17,081,
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Current Resident: Newport Beach is a beautiful coastal town, and if you put an effort to meet neighbors, you feel like you know everyone. Many families live in this tightly knitted community and if you have children you will easily connect with others. The restaurants, neighborhoods, schools, and shopping are unmatched and if you are can spend your summer here, you will not regret it. One con of this town is the high prices for private schools and club sports for children.... Read 88 reviews
#10 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Newport Beach
Town in California,
88 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says Newport Beach is a beautiful coastal town, and if you put an effort to meet neighbors, you feel like you know everyone. Many families live in this tightly knitted community and if you have children....
Read 88 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 85,159,
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#11 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Beverly Hills
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
75 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says Its a very high end more of the wealthy sides of the united states so it ticks all boxes eg safety,healthy living and all.My experience so far is just perferct and i aint complaining..
Read 75 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 32,406,
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Nearby Resident: San Marino is where the uber wealthy residents and old money of the SGV call home. There are no condos or apartments. This is by design. It is also the most white and a touch more conservative. Not a good or bad thing, simply an observation. People here can seem a bit entitled. Good schools. Not a lot to do outside of going to the parks, the library, garden, and a handful of restaurants, mom and pop shops, and boutiques. Though, it is not too far from nice hiking trails in neighboring areas and downtown LA. San Marino and South Pasadena feels like old school America. Like a ritzy small town. It is pretty and clean. The tree-lined neighborhoods are pristine. The main road, Huntington, is a bit bumpy and needs some upkeep. Kind of surprising for being such an expensive area. Gas here is $7/gal. I think it is the most expensive I have seen. San Marino is a great place to raise kids, if you can afford it.... Read 51 reviews
#12 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
San Marino
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
51 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Nearby Resident says San Marino is where the uber wealthy residents and old money of the SGV call home. There are no condos or apartments. This is by design. It is also the most white and a touch more conservative. Not a....
Read 51 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 12,442,
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#13 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Rancho Palos Verdes
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
117 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says I did not think I'll like it here when I moved in 2018. In my experience, folks are generous and kind. I have met many good people. It is a bit far from the freeway though so need to add extra 15....
Read 117 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 41,805,
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#14 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Cerritos
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
240 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says It's a nice and calm city, with stellar schools and nice parks. However, housing here is set at extremely high levels, so that is one drawback..
Read 240 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 49,016,
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Current Resident: Rolling Hills Estates is a great community and I have lived here for 21 years. However, there are some things I would like to see change. The roads desperately need attention to them. The asphalt has potholes and cracks and in stead of repaving the road they decided patch work was the best option. But more cracks and potholes have developed. Wouldn't the constant patch work be more expensive than just repaving?... Read 28 reviews
#15 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Rolling Hills Estates
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
28 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says Rolling Hills Estates is a great community and I have lived here for 21 years. However, there are some things I would like to see change. The roads desperately need attention to them. The asphalt has....
Read 28 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 8,214,
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#16 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Rolling Hills
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.
Featured Review: Niche User says It is an excellent gated equestrian community to raise a family..
Read 2 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 1,451,
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Current Resident: In Los Angeles, California, there is a charming seaside community called Palos Verdes Estates. Palos Verdes Estates' gorgeous coastline, which offers immaculate beaches and breath-taking panoramic views, is one of its most remarkable characteristics. Both locals and guests can enjoy outdoor pursuits including hiking on picturesque paths, surfing, or just relaxing and watching the sunsets. Palos Verdes has many recreational options, well-kept parks, and well regarded schools, all contributing to its excellent standard of living. There is always something to fit every lifestyle thanks to the luxury country clubs, golf courses, equestrian facilities, and other amenities available to residents. To promote a close-knit sense of community, PV residents actively participate in neighborhood associations, local activities, and volunteer opportunities.... Read 36 reviews
#17 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Palos Verdes Estates
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
36 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says In Los Angeles, California, there is a charming seaside community called Palos Verdes Estates. Palos Verdes Estates' gorgeous coastline, which offers immaculate beaches and breath-taking panoramic....
Read 36 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 13,219,
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#18 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Arcadia
Town in California,
257 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says Arcadia is a beautiful neighborhood. However, I live on the border of arcadia and experience more poverty. I love the friendly neighbors and the atmosphere within the town, the nearby stores and lake....
Read 257 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 56,181,
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#19 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Seal Beach
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
51 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says It is a nice place with a clean beach and a friendly community. There is a lot of activities to do, and we are very close to many sports teams and community events. Also, we are local to LA and San....
Read 51 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 25,046,
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#20 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Rossmoor
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
14 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says I like how safe the neighborhood is. I like how family-friendly the neighborhood is with the many public parks and some public events there like movies in the park. I would like to see a more diverse....
Read 14 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 11,742,
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Current Resident: Torrance, CA, has been a delightful place to live, offering a blend of urban convenience and suburban serenity that's hard to find elsewhere. The weather here is exceptional, with sunny skies and mild temperatures almost year-round, making outdoor activities a regular part of life. The beaches near Torrance are less crowded compared to more famous Los Angeles counterparts, providing a peaceful retreat without the need to travel far. It's not just about the natural beauty, though; Torrance boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes, from authentic Japanese sushi bars to trendy cafes and international cuisine. The local community is welcoming, with numerous parks and recreational facilities that host family-friendly events throughout the year, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit.... Read 331 reviews
#21 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Torrance
City in California,
331 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says Torrance, CA, has been a delightful place to live, offering a blend of urban convenience and suburban serenity that's hard to find elsewhere. The weather here is exceptional, with sunny skies and....
Read 331 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Population: 145,454,
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#22 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Aliso Viejo
Suburb of Irvine, CA,
165 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says Aliso Viejo is a pleasant, quiet neighborhood great for families. I would like to see more interesting stores come in!.
Read 165 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Population: 51,896,
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Review your area
Nearby Resident: I like the greenery with all of the trees and the small feeling of the city. The village is full of local shops and hosts a farmers market every weekend which I like because I value supporting local businesses. I would like to see change in the city sports programs. I think they should be more inclusive as I witnessed children being excluded from activities due to their size or mental challenges, which is unacceptable from a city sports team as they are not meant to be as competitive as club sports.... Read 138 reviews
#23 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Claremont
Suburb of San Bernardino, CA,
138 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Nearby Resident says I like the greenery with all of the trees and the small feeling of the city. The village is full of local shops and hosts a farmers market every weekend which I like because I value supporting local....
Read 138 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Population: 36,891,
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#24 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
Yorba Linda
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
161 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.
Featured Review: Former Resident says Yorba Linda was a great city to grow up in! There are amazing public schools, and lots of family-friendly parks, city and school events, etc. It's also gorgeous with quite a few nice walking areas!.
Read 161 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Population: 68,035,
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#25 Best Suburbs to Live in Los Angeles Area.
North Tustin
Suburb of Los Angeles, CA,
33 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Current Resident says It's a very nice, peaceful area. Very Neighborly and quiet. People are very friendly and the neighborhoods have a lot of original owners, most houses were built in the 50's and 60's..
Read 33 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Population: 25,131,
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SponsoredPrivate School
Templeton Academy DC
Private School·
WASHINGTON, DC·
6-12
·
Rating 4.13 out of 5 32
SponsoredCharter School
Citizens of the World Charter School East Valley
Public School·
VALLEY VILLAGE, CA·
PK, K-8
·
Rating 5 out of 5 10
SponsoredPrivate School
Fusion Academy South Bay
Private School·
HERMOSA BEACH, CA·
6-12
·
Rating 5 out of 5 1