Lancaster, CA 135 Apartments for Rent

So, you’re in a SoCal state of mind? But you don’t want the fast pace of Los Angeles or the beach scene of Malibu. You’re craving the high-desert climate but want something a bit more laid-back, right? Look no further than Lancaster.

Located in Los Angeles County, Lancaster is home to 11 state parks, year-round festivals, and was even home to the late Judy Garland. In fact, Lancaster has so much to offer its residents that it’s no wonder you want to move here. What are you waiting for? Click your heels three times and repeat ala Judy, “There’s no place like home.”

Neighborhoods:

In keeping with the one theme that is omnipresent when it comes to LA (or at least to some of us who still watch re-runs of a certain show named after a California zip code), we are going to break this section down into zip codes.

West Lancaster 93536: The more coveted area of Lancaster. Lancaster residents love this area because of its proximity to great restaurants. New residents will have no trouble finding a spot to fit in here, what with the market mainly consisting of a hearty helping of single-family homes (typically built in the 1980s and ‘90s) and apartments. Some newer/luxury apartments have been built in the area, many of which are pet-friendly and offer on-site recreational areas, only adding to the appeal of the big 93536. But, despite all that, the most appealing thing about the west side may be the Prime Woodland Preserve, a 70-acre nature-fest created to preserve (see what we did there) the beauty of the area. Oh, it’s pretty easy on the eyes, too.

East Lancaster 93535: Home to the city’s skate park, the Eastside of Lancaster is comprised of apartments, townhomes and single-family homes. The homes here are a mix between established (1980s) and newer (2005-up) and feature large yards. The apartments are just as accommodating, allowing pets and featuring fitness centers and pools for resident use. Due to its proximity to the freeway (I-14), living on the east side makes commuting easy

Downtown Lancaster 93534: It’s home to city hall, the Lancaster Museum and a lot of Lancaster’s generally history-laden locals. In fact, Downtown Lancaster has experienced a complete revitalization in recent years (in makeover terms, its equivalent to early 90210 David Silver becoming new, muscle-y, improved David Silver in the later years). A new library, performing arts center, as well as boutiques and restaurants have changed the landscape of a once old downtown area into a new trendy hot spot. Apartments, townhomes and single-family homes are where these city-dwellers rest their heads at night. And of course, no downtown is complete without the one area that makes it the place to live, and in Lancaster, that place is the BLVD. Opened in 2010, this one mile area, located on Lancaster Blvd (hence the trendy name), is home to Farmers Markets, festivals and themed nights year ‘round. Living downtown can give you access to nightlife and entertainment, and possibly your job. It is the commercial business district in Lancaster, after all.

Transportation:

Getting around Lancaster is fairly easy, as there’s pretty much a state road, freeway or highway that will take you wherever you want to go all within a reasonable distance. Those heading to LA can take the Antelope Valley Freeway (I-14), while those looking for a weekend getaway to Vegas can hop on I-15. The main highways serving the city are 138 and 58, which run east to west and will get you in and around the city relatively fast. Interested in a scenic weekend drive? Hop on the Angeles Forest or Angeles Crest Highway and get in touch with nature. Not too much, though. We don’t need a sequel to Blue Lagoon.

Public transportation is also available in the forms of commuter rail (Metrolink) and the bus system.

The Lancaster Lifestyle

Here are a few perks of living in Lancaster (no matter the zip code):

The weather: Because it’s located in Southern California’s high desert, the weather here is one of the best things about the city. It snows in winter (if you can consider an average of less than two inches “snowing”), it's warm in summer, and most nights offer up cool, desert air.

Outdoor activities: As we stated before, Lancaster is home to 11 parks. All of this nature makes for the perfect place to ski, hike, run, bike, snowboard, skateboard and so on. If you feel like staying in the car, be sure to drive over the speed limit (don’t tell the authorities we told you), in the left hand lane on Avenue G with the windows down. This is Lancaster’s famous musical road. “A musical road, you say? What is this sorcery!?” is what you’re most likely saying to yourself. Well, put simply, it’s a small chunk of highway punched full of divots, so when it’s driven over, it plays a famous song. What song? Guess you have to move and find out. Or search Youtube. You know what? Forget we said that last part, just move and see for yourself.

Location: With a great location in Los Angeles County, residents can spend the day in the Santa Clarita Valley or take a road trip to LA. In the mood for some sun and sand? Hop on the freeway. Any adventure is a drive away.

Apartment amenities: Many of the apartments in the Lancaster area feature great perks for its lovely residents. Pools (sometimes up to three on-site), private balconies and fitness centers are just some of the highlights. For those traveling with man’s best friend, most Lancaster living is pet-friendly.

Rumor has it that Lancaster’s city motto: “It’s positively clear,” was created because of the beautiful sky. However, one look around the city and it does become clear why residents love it here. Lancaster may not have a show named after it or streets filled with designer boutiques, but it does offer nature, community and that coveted SoCal scenery. So, whether you follow the yellow-brick road or Lancaster’s musical road, just make sure you get here. Life in Lancaster is waiting.