Distant sunset view of the city of Los Angeles through a grove of tall palm trees.

12 Best Los Angeles Suburbs for Living That SoCal Life

Los Angeles California

by Heather Magness Posted on July 30, 2024

Los Angeles, known for its glitz and glamor, is surrounded by a variety of charming suburbs that offer a respite from the bustling city life. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly environment, affordability, safety, or a manageable commute, the best Los Angeles suburbs provide a range of options that cater to different needs. In this article, we will explore some of the best suburbs of Los Angeles, highlighting what makes each unique and desirable.

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Los Angeles at a Glance

  • Population: Approximately
  • Median household income: $76,135
  • Demographics: A diverse mix of young professionals, families, students, and retirees
  • Average home value:
  • Average rent (one-bedroom):
  • Great for:

12 Best Los Angeles Suburbs

Choosing to live in the suburbs of Los Angeles instead of the city itself offers several advantages. Suburbs tend to be more affordable and have lower crime rates. Additionally, many suburbs offer good schools and plenty of green spaces, providing a more family-friendly environment. Here’s an overview of 12 of the best suburbs of Los Angeles to help you find the one that’s right for you.

View from above of a highway in Santa Monica, California, with the Pacific Ocean and nearby mountains visible beyond the oceanfront buildings.

Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant community, Santa Monica offers a perfect blend of urban and coastal living.

1. Santa Monica, CA

  • Average rent (one-bedroom):
  • Average home value:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 30 minutes

If you’re looking to settle down in one of the best Los Angeles suburbs, Santa Monica should be at the top of your list. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant community, Santa Monica offers a perfect blend of urban and coastal living. Enjoy a stroll along the iconic or shop at the upscale boutiques on . For dining, don’t miss out on the L.A. favorite , known for its gourmet burgers (and its Michelin star), or the seafood delights at .

Santa Monica is also home to numerous cultural attractions, such as the and the , which offers historic tours and beachfront amenities. is also a popular pedestrian shopping area with a variety of stores, restaurants, and street performers. And the city’s well-maintained parks, like Palisades Park, provide plenty of green space for relaxation and recreation, making Santa Monica an ideal place for both families and professionals.

Q: What is the best area in Los Angeles to live?
A: Santa Monica
is often regarded as one of the best areas to live in Los Angeles due to its coastal location, vibrant community, and excellent amenities.

2. El Segundo, CA

  • Average rent (one-bedroom):
  • Average home value:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 25–35 minutes

El Segundo is an excellent choice among the best Los Angeles suburbs, especially for those working in the aerospace and tech industries. The city hosts numerous headquarters and major companies, making it a prime location for professionals. Visit the for a unique experience or spend the day at nearby for some sun and sand. For dining, try for chef-made pizza and pasta from scratch or for seasonal Cal-Mex fare.

El Segundo is also known for its small-town charm and community-focused atmosphere. The city boasts excellent schools and well-maintained parks like and . And annual events such as the and the Hometown Fair and Carnival bring residents together and enhance the strong sense of community. With a variety of housing options, from quaint bungalows to modern homes, El Segundo offers a comfortable and convenient lifestyle.

Aerial view of the gorgeous coastline in Redondo Beach, California — one of the best suburbs of Los Angeles.

Redondo Beach is a charming coastal suburb, where residents enjoy a laid-back beach lifestyle and plenty of outdoor activities. 

3. Redondo Beach, CA

  • Average rent (one-bedroom):
  • Average home value:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 30–60 minutes

When it comes to the best suburbs of Los Angeles, Redondo Beach is a prime choice. This charming coastal suburb offers a laid-back beach lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities. You can enjoy a day at the , for instance, where you can find restaurants, shops, and live entertainment. For a great dining experience, visit for seafood with an ocean view or for a classic steakhouse vibe. And outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the Veterans Park, which offers a playground and picnic areas, or go for a bike ride along the Strand Bike Path. 

Redondo Beach boasts a variety of annual events, such as the and the . The area also offers a mix of charming beach cottages and modern homes, catering to various tastes and budgets. Families especially appreciate the excellent schools and numerous parks, including Wilderness Park, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.

Q: Where do middle-class people live in Los Angeles?
A:
Family-friendly suburbs like Cherry Valley, Burbank, Culver City, and Lancaster are popular choices for middle-class families due to lower cost of living and relatively affordable housing options.

4. Culver City, CA

  • Average rent (one-bedroom):
  • Average home value:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 20–30 minutes

Culver City is a vibrant suburb with a rich history in the film and entertainment industry. Visit the for a studio tour or explore the for unique shopping and dining experiences. The Kirk Douglas Theatre offers a variety of performances and cultural events, as well. And for dining, try for freshly-made pasta or Michelin-starred for its famous burgers.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the and the , which features sports facilities and scenic trails. And the is a combined cultural center and art museum, offering education through exhibits and community engagement. Culver City’s walkable streets and close-knit community make it an ideal place to live for those seeking a balance of urban amenities and suburban charm.

The view down a cute beachy residential street in Hermosa Beach, CA, one of the best Los Angeles suburbs.

Hermosa Beach is known for its beachy neighborhoods, lively atmosphere, and beautiful coastline.

5. Hermosa Beach, CA

  • Average rent (one-bedroom):
  • Average home value:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 30–50 minutes

Hermosa Beach is another fantastic option among the best Los Angeles suburbs, known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful coastline. Spend your weekends at the Hermosa Beach Pier, where you can enjoy various restaurants, bars, and shops. Popular spots include for Italian and for beachy American eats.

Hermosa Beach also hosts several popular events throughout the year, such as the and the amateur and pro volleyball tournaments. The Hermosa Beach Community Center also provides activities and programs for all ages, fostering a strong sense of community.

Q: What is the nicest suburb of Los Angeles?
A:
Beverly Hills is often considered the nicest suburb of Los Angeles due to its luxurious lifestyle, high-end shopping, and beautiful residential areas.

6. Beverly Hills, CA

  • Median rent (one-bedroom):
  • Average home value:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 25–50 minutes

Beverly Hills is synonymous with luxury and glamor, making it one of the most prestigious Los Angeles suburbs and one of the best places to retire in California. Stroll down the famous for high-end shopping. Or visit the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel, a symbol of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

The beautiful Beverly Gardens Park offers can’t-miss walking paths and stunning gardens. And cultural enthusiasts enjoy the , which hosts a variety of performances. Beverly Hills also boasts excellent dining options such as the ambitious and Michelin-starred , providing a range of culinary experiences.

Large single-family homes in Irvine, California, a Los Angeles suburb located in Orange County.

Irvine’s well-planned community and numerous amenities make it a top choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.

7. Irvine, CA 

  • Average rent (one-bedroom):
  • Average home value:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 40–60 minutes

Irvine is one of the best Los Angeles suburbs for families (and one of the best places to live in the state), known for its top-rated schools and safe neighborhoods. Enjoy a day at the with its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Or take advantage of the Orange County Great Park with its sports fields, gardens, and cultural events. For dining, don’t miss for some of the best ramen in the area.

Irvine is also known for its diverse architectural styles, ranging from modern townhouses to spacious single-family homes. And the community’s diverse cultures are celebrated at popular events like the Irvine Global Village Festival.

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy exploring the Jeffrey Open Space Trail, and families especially love the . The also showcases a collection of California Impressionism art, making it a great cultural stop for anyone. Overall, Irvine’s well-planned community and numerous amenities make it a top choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.

8. South Pasadena, CA

  • Average rent (one-bedroom):
  • Average home value:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 15–20 minutes

South Pasadena is a picturesque suburb known for its historic charm and community vibe. The city's tree-lined streets are home to beautiful Craftsman-style houses and well-preserved historic buildings. And you can easily spend a day exploring the local shops and eateries along Mission Street, or enjoy a meal at or for some local favorites.

South Pasadena is also renowned for its excellent schools and family-friendly environment. The Arroyo Seco Park offers ample green space for outdoor activities, while the provides fresh, local produce and a lively community atmosphere. Annual events such as the also bring residents together to celebrate the city's vibrant culture.

View from the water of luxurious oceanfront homes in Newport Beach, California.

Newport Beach is known for its luxurious coastal lifestyle, making it one of the most coveted Los Angeles suburbs to live in.

9. Newport Beach, CA

  • Average rent (one-bedroom):
  • Average home value:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 50–70 minutes

Newport Beach is known for its luxurious coastal lifestyle, making it one of the most coveted Los Angeles suburbs to live in. You can easily spend your days lounging on the sandy shores of or sailing in . And dining options are plentiful, with popular spots like for seafood and Nobu for upscale Japanese cuisine.

The city also hosts numerous annual events, including the famous and the . Residents enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle, as well, with access to the Back Bay Loop Trail and . With its combination of natural beauty, high-end amenities, and community events, Newport Beach offers an unparalleled living experience.

10. La Cañada Flintridge, CA

  • Average rent (one-bedroom): N/A
  • Average home value:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 15–25 minutes

La Cañada Flintridge is a charming suburb known for its excellent schools and strong sense of community, making it one of the best Los Angeles suburbs for families. This picturesque area offers a peaceful environment with plenty of green spaces. The , for example, features beautiful botanical gardens and walking paths, and the is perfect for golfing and other recreational activities. For dining, try for brunch or for all-day American fare.

La Cañada Flintridge also boasts a variety of community events, such as the and the , which bring residents together and enhance the suburb's close-knit atmosphere. The area also offers a mix of housing options, including spacious single-family homes and charming cottages, catering to various preferences and budgets. With its proximity to Los Angeles and its family-oriented amenities, La Cañada Flintridge is an ideal place to call home.

Distant view of Burbank and Universal City with the foggy mountains in the background.

Burbank is known as the "Media Capital of the World."

11. Burbank, CA

  • Average rent (one-bedroom):
  • Average home value:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 20–30 minutes

Burbank, located in the southeastern end of the San Fernando Valley, is known as the "Media Capital of the World." The suburb houses numerous major media and entertainment companies, including Warner Bros. Entertainment, Nickelodeon Animation Studios, and . This makes Burbank an ideal place for professionals in the entertainment industry. 

For dining, check out for upscale American cuisine with a view or for delicious pastries and Cuban dishes. Burbank also offers a variety of outdoor activities and community events. The Wildwood Canyon Park provides hiking trails with scenic views, while the offers educational programs and trails. Families can enjoy the for shopping and entertainment or visit the for horseback riding lessons and events. And Burbank's excellent public schools, including Burbank High School, and safe neighborhoods are icing on the cake.

Q: What suburbs are in the Valley of Los Angeles?
A:
The San Fernando Valley includes suburbs like Burbank, Glendale, Sherman Oaks, Calabasas, and San Fernando.

12. Cherry Valley, CA

  • Average rent (one-bedroom):
  • Median home sale price:
  • Great for:
  • Commute to downtown Los Angeles: 1.5–2 hours

Cherry Valley is a hidden gem among Los Angeles suburbs, known for its affordability and rural charm. With significantly lower home values and rental costs compared to many other L.A. suburbs, it offers a cost-effective option for families and individuals who don’t mind a longer commute. You can enjoy the serene environment while still being conveniently located to larger cities like Riverside and San Bernardino. And you can spend weekends exploring nearby attractions such as the . For dining, try , a local favorite for homestyle cooking, or for delicious Mexican treats.

Move to a Los Angeles Suburb With ÐÓ°ÉPro

Once you've chosen your perfect Los Angeles suburb, let ÐÓ°ÉPro help you get there with a portable moving container delivered right to your driveway. Pack and load on your own schedule and, when you're ready, ÐÓ°ÉPro will pick up and transport the container to your new home. In L.A., you can even take advantage of ÐÓ°ÉPro City Service to make the move go that much smoother. And with one month’s storage built into every move, your relocation to a new home in one of L.A.'s best suburbs will be flexible and convenient.

This content was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence. It was then fact-checked, proofread, and edited by the real-life intelligence of the ÐÓ°ÉPro Blog team. 

Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.

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