Los Angeles, CA: Surrounding Suburbs Guide

No matter where you’re from, you must have heard of Los Angeles. Pop culture has nailed the exotic, diverse, and vibrant culture of the ‘City of Angels’ in movies and music. Being the second-largest city after New York City, you can imagine how busting the city must be. However, if you prefer being in a calmer place than the city, we have curated a couple of suburbs that we think will help you to escape the hustle and bustle.

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Without any further ado, let’s take an in-depth look into the best suburbs in Los Angeles.

1. San Marino

Population: 13,194

Median Home Value: $2,000,001

Median Rent: $3,293

Median Household Income: $166,607

Commute Time To Work: 30.5 minutes

Violent Crimes Per Year (US Average is 22.7): 9.8

Property Crimes Per Year (US Average is 35.4): 27.7

Unemployment Rate (US Average is 6.0%): 10.9% 

A Little Bit About San Marino

If you’re searching for an upscale suburb in Los Angeles to raise a family, then San Marino should be on the top of your list. This place is considered to be one of America's wealthiest cities because of the high median household income earned by its residents. With low crime rates and few liquor stores (you may take this as a boon or a curse), we can say that this is what makes this suburb family-oriented.

Speaking about education, the public school system here is efficient and reliable with proficient teachers and robust infrastructure. You can be sure of your child receiving a quality education in San Marino.

Apart from the schools, San Marino is known for accommodating posh houses and intricately designed gardens. Here are some places you need to visit when you’re down in this suburb.

Key Attractions

• The Huntington Desert Garden: If you’re a connoisseur of succulents or cacti, then this place is surely going to be a feast for your eyes. It is known that this garden is almost 100 years old, containing some of the nation's largest collections of succulents and cacti. And you can always purchase a succulent plant or two from the garden's store if you're really itching to take one home.

Even if you're just looking around, the picturesque desert landscape adds another vibe to the place altogether. You can be sure of clicking a picture or two to show your friends and family.

• Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden: Need a place to calm your stressed mind? Then the Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden waits for you. Just by taking a stroll in the serene atmosphere accompanied by the chirping of birds, you can be sure of having a relaxed and peaceful afternoon. While walking, you will notice the various ponds, benches, waterfalls, and unique plants maintained by this place. After you're satisfied with your walk, rest and refresh yourself with a cup of coffee and a slice of cake in their on-site tea house.

The Best Schools Serving San Marino

Elementary

• Valentine Elementary, Huntington Drive, San Marino Unified School District
• Carver Elementary School, Huntington Drive, San Marino Unified School District

Middle

• Huntington Middle School, Huntington Drive, San Marino Unified School District

High

• San Marino High School, Huntington Drive, San Marino Unified School District

2. Pasadena

Population: 141,258

Median Home Value: $785,700

Median Rent: $1,710

Median Household Income: $83,068

Commute Time To Work: 28.2 minutes

Violent Crimes Per Year (US Average is 22.7): 17.7

Property Crimes Per Year (US Average is 35.4): 36.5

Unemployment Rate (US Average is 6.0%): 9.0% 

A Little Bit About Pasadena

Located just 11 miles from Downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena is one of California's first cities to be incorporated in Los Angeles County; ever since then, this place has been growing. As soon as you enter Pasadena, a warm cozy vibe, caused by the immense variety of historical buildings, is sensed throughout the suburb.

Also, Pasadena is known to host a plethora of events annually such as the annual Rose Bowl football game and Tournament of Roses Parade. You won't lack any entertainment in this place. Along with that, many of the nation’s prestigious scientific and educational institutions such as Caltech, Pasadena City College, and ArtCenter College of Design are based here in this suburb.

Key Attractions

• Old Pasadena: If you want to experience the historic side of Pasadena, this place will not disappoint. The Old Pasadena Food Tasting Tour has held annually where people from far and wide come to taste various dishes from around the city. Diversity is what this area thrives on as numerous museums, shops, restaurants, and galleries are abundant.

• Jet Propulsion Laboratory: Have you ever wondered where all the fancy space equipment comes from? Well, some of it comes from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Equipment such as robotic spacecraft is constructed by the laboratory, managed by Caltech for NASA. Some notable projects include the Mars Science Laboratory, the Curiosity rover, and the NuSTAR X-ray telescope.

The Best Schools Serving Pasadena

Elementary

• Don Benito Fundamental School, Denair Street, Pasadena Unified School District
• Field (Eugene) Elementary School, Sierra Madre Boulevard, Pasadena Unified School District
• Hamilton Elementary School, Rose Villa Street, Pasadena Unified School District

Middle

• Marshall Fundamental School, North Allen Avenue, Pasadena Unified School District

High

• Pasadena High School, East Sierra Madre Boulevard, Pasadena Unified School District

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3. Torrance

Population: 145,492

Median Home Value: $762,700

Median Rent: $1,736

Median Household Income: $93,492

Commute Time To Work: 28.5 minutes 

Violent Crimes Per Year (US Average is 22.7): 9.3

Property Crimes Per Year (US Average is 35.4): 30.5

Unemployment Rate (US Average is 6.0%): 8.2% 

A Little Bit About Torrance

If you're seeking a much safer neighborhood than your previous one, then Torrance is the place you should move to as it consistently ranks amongst the safest cities in Los Angeles County. Also, you’ll see a healthy amount of Japanese culture due to Toyota's historical presence in Torrance before World War II which had attracted the Japanese to settle in this city; therefore adding a unique mix to this city's culture.

Being a coastal community, Torrance has several beaches to enjoy while basking in the summer heat; a perfect spot to spend a day with your family and friends. What more could you ask for?

Key Attractions

• Del Amo Fashion Center: This 3 story high structure not only holds a plethora of shops having a wide range of clothes or accessories, but it is also a landmark in its own right. Adding to that, the Del Amo Fashion Center contains a movie theater, a food court, and a gym as well. If you’re a shopaholic, then this is your go-to place as the shops range from budget-friendly to high-end.
• Western Museum of Flight: If you want to learn more about the beginnings of the aviation industry in America, then this place will not disappoint. People of all ages will certainly be thrilled interacting with the aviation equipment which might even develop a new interest for those who aren't really fond of planes. From military to commercial planes and to some components dating back to World War II, this place has it all.

Best Schools Serving Torrance

Elementary

• Anza Elementary School, Ellinwood Drive, Torrance Unified School District
• Seaside Elementary School, Torrance Unified School District
• Howard Wood Elementary School, West 235th Street, Torrance Unified School District

Middle

• Edward J. Richardson Middle School, Nancy Lee Lane, Torrance Unified School District
•  Jefferson Middle School, Talisman Street, Torrance Unified School District
• Bert M. Lynn Middle School, Torrance Unified School District

High

• West High School, Victor Street, Torrance Unified School District
• Torrance High School, Carson Street, Torrance Unified School Districtx
• North High School, West 182nd Street, Torrance Unified School District

4. Redondo Beach

Population: 67,423

Median Home Value: $926,500

Median Rent: $2,072

Median Household Income: $113,499

Commute Time To Work: 30 minutes 

Violent Crimes Per Year (US Average is 22.7): 14.5

Property Crimes Per Year (US Average is 35.4): 35.5

Unemployment Rate (US Average is 6.0%): 7.8% 

A Little Bit About Redondo Beach

Located 20 miles away from Los Angeles, this suburb is popular among tourists because of its sandy beaches. This is not only the major highlight. Along with this, many residents have vouched for its safe neighborhoods, quality schools, and friendly atmosphere. Hence, you can be sure of raising a family over here.

To enjoy some of the city's best amenities, head over to the Marina, Pier, and Harbor complexes to avail some of Redondo Beach’s best restaurants, bars, shops, and even video game arcades.

Key Attractions

• Veterans Park: This place has a playground, and ample green fields to jog on. The memorial dedicated to the local veterans just overlooks the ocean. A wonderful place to be enjoyed by children or adults alike.
• Hopkins Wilderness Park: If you have had enough of the beach sun and prefer doing something more athletic, then head over to Hopkins Wilderness Park. This park boasts 11 acres of land with varied terrain for camping and hiking trips. Not only that, this place is home to several ponds, meadows, and forests as well.

Best Schools Serving Redondo Beach

Elementary

• Alta Vista Elementary School, Knob Hill Avenue, Redondo Beach Unified School District
• Birney Elementary School, Green Lane, Redondo Beach Unified School District
• Tulita Elementary School, Prospect Avenue, Redondo Beach Unified School District

Middle

• Parras (Nick G.) Middle School, North Lucia, Redondo Beach Unified School District
• Adams Middle School, Ripley Avenue, Redondo Beach Unified School District

High

• Redondo Union High School, One Sea Hawk Way, Redondo Beach Unified School District

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See also: Moving to Los Angeles CA

Some Notable Mentions

Sierra Madre

Population: 10,392

Median Home Value: $969,700

Median Rent: $1,615

Median Household Income: $100,988

Commute Time To Work: 30.5 minutes

Violent Crimes Per Year (US Average is 22.7): 10.7

Property Crimes Per Year (US Average is 35.4): 17.9

Unemployment Rate (US Average is 6.0%): 10.9% 

Malibu

Population: 12,620

Median Home Value: $2,000,001

Median Rent: $2,403

Median Household Income: $150,747

Commute Time To Work: 35 minutes

Violent Crimes Per Year (US Average is 22.7): 12.6

Property Crimes Per Year (US Average is 35.4): 40.5

Unemployment Rate (US Average is 6.0%): 10.9% 

Agoura Hills

Population: 20,533

Median Home Value: $815,000

Median Rent: $2,529

Median Household Income: $122,998

Commute Time To Work: 30.5 minutes

Violent Crimes Per Year (US Average is 22.7): 8.6

Property Crimes Per Year (US Average is 35.4): 22.0

Unemployment Rate (US Average is 6.0%): 7.7%

Conclusion

Bit by bit, we have gone through some of the best suburbs surrounding Los Angeles. True, living in any of these Los Angeles suburbs can be expensive and you may have to cut down on spending. But the vibrant job market each suburb has will guarantee you a well-paying job to pay the bills. However, if you haven't got a job, don't move in here just yet.

FAQs

What Is The Nicest Beach In LA?

Redondo Beach is one of LA's finest beaches. This beach is known to host numerous beach events and programs for the enjoyment of tourists and locals.

What Is The Most Expensive Suburb Surrounding Los Angeles?

Based on real estate rates, San Marino is among the most expensive suburb in Los Angeles. But the median household income is above the national average, so you will be sure of earning more if you plan on moving here.

Where Is The Best Place To Live Near Los Angeles?

Redondo Beach is among the best places to live near Los Angeles because of the place’s low unemployment rate and high median household income. This means the job market is much more thriving than other suburbs surrounding Los Angeles.

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