Share this Article

20 Cities Near Los Angeles, CA [2024]

August 11, 2023
Are you looking for an apartment in cities near Los Angeles? Find out more about commute times, average rent, and the LA lifestyle here!

If there’s one thing you should know before moving to Los Angeles proper, there are plenty of cities near Los Angeles to consider. Whether you're looking for lower rents, better opportunities for you and your family, or just more space, there are over 80 other neighborhoods within Los Angeles County to choose from, as well as additional choices in nearby Ventura and Orange counties.

Commuting is already a common aspect of Angeleno life, so moving to the suburbs won't necessarily mean sacrificing ease and convenience. In fact, in some cases, it might even shorten your commuting time. So, if you're seeking a more comfortable lifestyle outside one of the most popular cities in California, here are the top 20 places to explore.

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

1. Baldwin Park

best cities near los angeles baldwin park

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 17.8 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 26 minutes via I-10 W.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 34 minutes via Metrolink San Bernardino Line
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 56 minutes via San Gabriel River Trail
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,900
  • Population: 69,455
  • Median household income: $72,554
  • Walk score: 55
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 50

Baldwin Park is one of the most popular eastern cities near L.A. and part of the San Gabriel Valley. The city is known for its abundance of parks and recreational spaces, from Morgan Park to the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area. For cultural offerings, check out the Baldwin Park Historical Museum or the numerous local events and festivals that bring residents together throughout the year.

With convenient access to multiple Metrolink lines, a wide array of public schools, and budget-friendly apartments, Baldwin Park is an ideal spot in the greater L.A. area.

2. Redondo Beach

Redondo Beach cities near Los Angeles1

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 22.3 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 52 minutes via I-110 N.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 1 hour and 19 minutes via bus Nos. 13 and 4X
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 2 hours and 21 minutes via Ballona Creek Bike Path
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,950
  • Population: 68,918
  • Median household income: $123,874
  • Walk score: 75
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 64

Of all the cities close to Los Angeles with waterfront proximity, Redondo Beach offers the most vibrant coastal living experience. From the sandy beaches to the scenic pier, it offers a relaxed, beachy atmosphere that complements the fast-paced L.A. lifestyle.

From the Redondo Beach Pier, which offers waterfront dining and boutique shops, to the nearby South Coast Botanic Garden, there are plenty of things to do here. In the lively downtown area, you’ll find numerous events and festivals throughout the year. Overall, Redondo Beach strikes a perfect balance between coastal charm and urban amenities.

3. West Hollywood

West Hollywood cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 8.2 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 34 minutes via Beverly Boulevard
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 1 hour and 5 minutes via bus Nos. 4 and 70
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 55 minutes via Willoughby Avenue
  • Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,588
  • Population: 34,514
  • Median household income: $78,719
  • Walk score: 88
  • Transit score: 62
  • Bike score: 39

West Hollywood is home to the famous Sunset Strip. In its earlier days, the area garnered a reputation for its flourishing gambling and casino scene, but over time, the neighborhood has transformed into a trendy L.A. district with a lively atmosphere.

West Hollywood, known by locals as “WeHo,” and the cities nearby offer an array of nightlife options, restaurants, and recreational activities everywhere from Melrose Avenue to the Grove. Plus, with proximity to Hollywood and Beverly Hills, the fun never ends.

With so many available apartments on the Strip and tucked away in the hills, including several month-to-month apartments, you can truly tailor your living experience to your preferences.

4. Montebello

Montebello cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 10 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 23 minutes via CA-60 W.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 1 hour and 3 minutes via bus Nos. 40 and 33
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 50 minutes via W. Whittier Boulevard
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,950
  • Population: 60,569
  • Median household income: $66,584
  • Walk score: 66
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 53

Montebello is one of our favorite cities around Los Angeles in the San Gabriel Valley. Though it was established as an agricultural hub, this suburban community now serves as a gateway city with an array of parks and recreational spaces. Montebello boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a plethora of restaurants and shops to explore in places like Montebello Plaza and Montebello Town Square.

Throughout the year, Montebello and its surrounding neighborhoods come alive with numerous festivals and events. If you’re looking for a tight-knit community with plenty of great rentals in which to raise families, Montebello is the place.

5. El Segundo

El Segundo cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 19.7 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 37 minutes via I-105 E. and I-110 N.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 38 minutes via Metro C-Line and bus No. 4X
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 57 minutes via Ballona Creek Bike Path and Adams Boulevard
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,595
  • Population: 16,622
  • Median household income: $126,683
  • Walk score: 65
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 49

El Segundo sits between Manhattan Beach and LAX, offering proximity to the sparkling Pacific Ocean.

Affectionately nicknamed "Mayberry USA," El Segundo is renowned for its small-town charm and relatively affordable coastal living. Even so, you’ll find a plethora of attractions, including the Old Town Music Hall and the Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum.

Residents can forego the long commutes by working at local establishments like the Los Angeles Airforce Base or the Los Angeles Times. With an array of old mid-rise apartments and updated condos, it’s one of the best cities near Los Angeles, CA, for families and young professionals.

6. Culver City

Culver City cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 10.3 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 26 minutes via I-10 E.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 41 minutes via bus Nos. 108 and 4X
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 3 minutes via Venice Boulevard
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,295
  • Population: 39,515
  • Median household income: $105,346
  • Walk score: 76
  • Transit score: 48
  • Bike score: 71

Culver City hit its stride in the early 20th century as a prominent film and television hub, home to both Sony Pictures and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studios.

Though prices are on a quick rise compared to other cities near Los Angeles, California, it still stands as one of the more affordable neighboring areas, offering a range of attractions, from the Platform to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. Since Covid-19, the downtown area has exploded with a range of trendy gastropubs and cocktail bars, perfect for younger crowds.

In terms of housing, you’ll find a diverse selection of upscale and modern apartment buildings near I-405 and I-10 for easy commutes.

7. Norwalk

Norwalk cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 15.7 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 35 minutes via I-5 N.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 1 hour via bus No. 460
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 37 minutes via E. Florence Avenue
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,400
  • Population: 98,537
  • Median household income: $83,217
  • Walk score: 61
  • Transit score: 42
  • Bike score: 52

Norwalk is one of the best cities close to L.A. Here, you’ll find the Norwalk Arts and Sports Complex, with plenty of recreational facilities and sports fields, as well as the nearby Heritage Park, which offers serene walking trails and picnic spots.

The cultural diversity here is evident, from the vibrant dining scene to the many events at the Cerritos College Performing Arts Center. Overall, Norwalk's affordability, coupled with its proximity to multiple major metropolitan areas, makes it an appealing choice for those looking to rent near Los Angeles.

8. Beverly Hills

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 9.6 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 46 via Beverly Boulevard
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 1 hour and 2 minutes via bus No. 28
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 2 minutes via W. Third Street and Fourth Street
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,995
  • Population: 31,326
  • Median household income: $103,944
  • Walk score: 75
  • Transit score: 55
  • Bike score: 52

Everyone knows about movie-star-filled Beverly Hills. Of all the cities surrounding Los Angeles, this one faced the most explosive growth in the 1920s, becoming an epicenter for the arts, culture, and everything luxury.

Today, Beverly Hills offers a unique blend of urban amenities amid meticulous landscaping. Whether you’re looking for art galleries, fine dining, upscale shopping, or luxury apartments, you’ll find it here.

The city boasts iconic attractions, including the renowned Rodeo Drive and the exquisite Greystone Mansion and Garden. Renters have plenty of housing options here, including single-family homes, duplexes, and apartment buildings. Just expect to pay more than the average L.A. rent.

9. Glendale

Glendale cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 9.9 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 23 minutes via CA-2 S.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 13 minutes via Metrolink Antelope Valley Line
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 45 minutes via W. Sunset Boulevard
  • Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,355
  • Population: 189,221
  • Median household income: $74,488
  • Walk score: 71
  • Transit score: 45
  • Bike score: 52

Glendale is one of the most affordable cities near Los Angeles and the fourth-largest city in the county, nestled between the San Fernando Valley and the Verdugo Mountains.

You’ll find a wide array of attractions, from the outdoor mall experience at the Americana at Brand to the nearby nature walks at the Descanso Gardens. The area warmly welcomes both families and retirees, making for diverse demographics.

In terms of the housing landscape, you’ll find everything from new mid-rise apartment complexes to old L.A.-style bungalows. Pair that with convenient access to the wider metropolitan area via I-5, and you’ll always have the option to take your adventures beyond Glendale.

10. Bellflower

cities near Los Angeles - Bellflower

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 18 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 34 minutes via I-710 N.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 1 hour and 11 minutes via bus Nos. 141, 173, and 460
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 40 minutes via E. Florence Avenue
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,400
  • Population: 76,405
  • Median household income: $70,236
  • Walk score: 66
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 60

With a rich cultural history and family-friendly atmosphere, Bellflower provides a unique living experience compared to other towns near L.A.

Nature lovers can enjoy the wide variety of parks and recreational areas, such as T. Mayne Thompson Park and Simms Park, or go cycling up the historic Bellflower Bike Trail. The range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year is seemingly never-ending, from the Summer StreetFest to the nearby Downey International Food Festival.

Top that off with a lower cost of living than Los Angeles and proximity to major freeways, and it’s easy to see why Bellflower is such an appealing choice for renters.

11. Torrance

Torrance best cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 18.9 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 45 minutes via I-110 N.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 49 minutes via bus No. 4X
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 53 minutes via S. Hoover Street
  • Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,234
  • Population: 141,126
  • Median household income: $100,215
  • Walk score: 64
  • Transit score: 37
  • Bike score: 54

Torrance is one of the uniquely vibrant industrial-residential towns near Los Angeles that has grown tenfold since it was founded in 1912.

Here, you’ll find everything from sandy beaches to delightful dining options. While the city may not have bustling nightlife, its proximity to Los Angeles makes exploring the vibrant entertainment of the nearby metropolis easy. Plus, you can’t beat the gorgeous year-round weather and close-knit community.

As you probably already know, living near the waterfront is more expensive. Luckily, there are numerous apartment options in Torrance that lie further east, perfect for commuters on a budget.

12. Pasadena

Pasadena cities near Los Angeles1

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 10.8 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 20 minutes via CA-110/Arroyo Seco Parkway
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 41 minutes via Metro A-Line and bus No. 40
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 51 minutes via Arroyo Seco Bike Path
  • Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,412
  • Population: 134,211
  • Median household income: $89,661
  • Walk score: 80
  • Transit score: 66
  • Bike score: 54

While it might be nationally famous for hosting the Rose Bowl football game, there is so much more that the culturally rich city of Pasadena offers. Not only is it the home of the esteemed California Institute of Technology and NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab, but it also offers a delightful blend of 1920s architecture, a vibrant food scene, and numerous cultural treasures, such as the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. The Eaton Canyon Falls Trail provides opportunities for biking and hiking, while Old Pasadena and South Pasadena offer plenty of dining and shopping experiences.

The housing options in Pasadena are seemingly endless, from single-family homes in the hills to upscale apartments downtown. Plus, with close access to the I-210, commuting becomes less of an issue.

13. Pico Rivera

Pico Rivera best cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 11.8 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 26 minutes via I-5 N.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 1 hour and 14 minutes via bus Nos. 50 and 28
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 4 minutes via W. Whittier Boulevard and First Street
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,449
  • Population: 59,781
  • Median household income: $78,056
  • Walk score: 59
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 59

Pico Rivera is one of the cheap cities near Los Angeles, known for its abundance of parks and recreational opportunities, perfect for families and outdoors enthusiasts. From the scenic Pico Rivera Sports Arena to Smith Park, there’s ample space for picnics, sports, and family gatherings.

As for housing options, the city offers a mix of rental properties, including everything from cozy apartments to spacious townhouses. With a central location and a strong commitment to community, it’s a welcoming choice for those looking to rent near Los Angeles.

14. Agoura Hills

Agoura Hills cities near Los Angeles1

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 35.4 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 1 hour and 6 minutes via US-101 S.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 1 hour and 29 minutes via bus Nos. 422 and 76
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 3 hours and 57 minutes via Los Angeles River Bike Path
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,900
  • Population: 19,464
  • Median household income: $141,099
  • Walk score: 37
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 26

Though Agoura Hills gave rise to Linkin Park, this charmingly picturesque Santa Monica Mountains city is best known for its tranquil, nature-rich setting outside the bustling city. Chesebro Canyon and Malibu Creek State Park offer hiking and biking trails, and with proximity to Malibu Beach, you can enjoy sand and surf without a lengthy commute.

Agoura Hills boasts a vibrant local community featuring a range of restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops in the Agoura Hills Town Center and live music performances at The Canyon. Add the diverse range of rental options, and it’s easy to see why it’s an alluring choice out of the cities outside Los Angeles.

15. Santa Monica

Santa Monica cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 15.8 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 38 minutes via I-10 E.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 1 hour and 3 minutes via Metro E-Line and Metro J-Line 910/950
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 39 minutes via Venice Boulevard
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,295
  • Population: 89,947
  • Median household income: $99,847
  • Walk score: 83
  • Transit score: 60
  • Bike score: 88

Santa Monica is an iconic SoCal destination renowned for its stunning beach and vibrant dining and shopping scene. You get the laid-back coastal lifestyle paired with luxury apartments you might expect to find in Beverly Hills.

While tourists might flock here for the Third Street Promenade and the Santa Monica Pier, locals enjoy the adjacent coastal bike path, art exhibitions at Bergamont Station Arts Center, and Friday outings at the nearby Penmar Golf Course.

Santa Monica is a particularly attractive place for millennials and young professionals seeking beachfront living and a range of employer options, as the city is also home to major companies like Hulu, Activision Blizzard, and Edmunds.

16. Whittier

Whittier cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 20.1 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 32 minutes via CA-60 W.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 1 hour and 22 minutes via bus Nos. 7 and 460
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 17 minutes via Whittier Boulevard
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,600
  • Population: 84,496
  • Median household income: $80,306
  • Walk score: 64
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 52

Whittier is a charmingly historic city on the outskirts of Los Angeles. It's an ideal place for families, thanks to its beautiful parks and top-rated schools.

The city has a diverse dining scene, offering a wide range of delicious options, from El Cholo’s authentic Mexican food to the American classics at Scotty’s Family Restaurant. Moreover, you’ll find numerous cultural attractions, such as the Whittier Museum and Pio Pico State Historic Park.

Whittier's thriving local businesses, proximity to Los Angeles, and sense of community add to its overall appeal.

17. Newport Beach

Newport Beach cities near los angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 42 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 1 hour and 13 minutes via I-605 N.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 2 hours and 19 minutes via bus Nos. 57 and 54 and Metrolink Orange County Line
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 3 hours and 37 minutes via San Gabriel River Mid Trail
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,737
  • Population: 83,993
  • Median household income: $142,463
  • Walk score: 86
  • Transit score: 34
  • Bike score: 81

Home to “The Wedge,” one of the best surfing sites in the world, Newport Beach is the epitome of a Southern California beach town. You’ll find water recreation opportunities, upscale dining and shopping, and one of the best marinas in the region.

Though it’s only a short distance from Los Angeles, the city boasts its own thriving job market, with employers like Pacific Investment Management Company calling Newport Beach home. Modern, upscale apartments are plentiful here, and those seeking waterfront views can explore options along CA-1.

18. Venice

Venice cities near los angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 16.5 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 45 minutes via I-10 E.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 1 hour and 28 minutes via bus No. 33
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 28 minutes via S. Venice Boulevard
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,525
  • Population: 27,469
  • Median household income: $121,842
  • Walk score: 83
  • Transit score: 52
  • Bike score: 88

Over the years, the funky, hippie culture of Venice has made it one of the most unique small towns in Los Angeles. With an abundance of artist colonies, a health-focused community, and a thriving shopping and dining scene, there’s so much more to Venice than beachside activities.

Even so, biking, jogging, and surfing are the norm here, and you’ll find plenty of young professionals and families who take advantage of staying active daily. You’ll find numerous housing options near the famous Venice Boardwalk and Abbot Kinney Boulevard, though you can also look near the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve if natural surroundings are what you’re after.

19. Downey

Downey cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 12.8 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 28 minutes via I-5 N.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 43 minutes via Metro C-Line and Metro J-Line 910/950
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 1 hour and 10 minutes via CA 42
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,200
  • Population: 109,934
  • Median household income: $77,972
  • Walk score: 61
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 53

Downey might just be the most affordable city close to Los Angeles, providing easy access to both downtown L.A. and Orange County.

The city has a rich aerospace history dating back more than 70 years, which you can learn about at the Columbia Memorial Space Center. On the other hand, nature enthusiasts here enjoy the lush greenery and fish-filled lakes of Wilderness Park.

As a diverse, multicultural community, Downey is a very welcoming place for people of all backgrounds. Plus, with a wide range of rental options, including apartments and townhouses, the city caters to all lifestyles and budgets.

20. Alhambra

Alhambra cities near Los Angeles

  • Distance from downtown Los Angeles: 9.1 miles
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via car: 20 minutes via I-10 W.
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via public transport: 33 minutes via bus Nos. 487 and 76
  • Commute time to Los Angeles via bike: 45 minutes via Huntington Drive N. and N. Mission Road
  • Starting rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,650
  • Population: 80,259
  • Median household income: $73,035
  • Walk score: 71
  • Transit score: N/A
  • Bike score: 49

Alhambra, often referred to as the “city of homes” for its wide range of architectural styles, is an excellent option for those seeking more affordable living without compromising on urban amenities.

The diverse city boasts an array of attractions, including the lush green spaces at Garfield Park. Foodies can head to Alhambra's bustling Main Street for diverse dining options, which is a wonderful reflection of the city's multicultural population.

With easy access to downtown Los Angeles and an excellent public transportation system, Alhambra is a desirable choice for renters of all backgrounds.

Make Your Move: Start Apartment Hunting With Apartment List

Finding an apartment in Los Angeles doesn’t have to be hard. Whether you’re in search of beachfront living, family-friendly neighborhoods, or vibrant nightlife, there are countless cities close to Los Angeles from which to choose, each of which has unique amenities and attractions that cater to diverse lifestyles.

To simplify your apartment search, make sure to take our quiz to find the perfect match for your needs! With us, you’ll spend 5 minutes and save 50 hours searching.

Share this Article

Tristian Brown
SENIOR CONTENT ASSOCIATE
Tristian Brown is a Senior Content Marketing Associate at Apartment List, where he manages high-quality content that helps modern renters find the perfect home. He brings an immense wealth of knowledge to the team, having earned a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and European Management from the University of San Diego and EM Strasbourg Business School. Read More
Tyler Connaghan
CONTENT WRITER
For over a decade, Tyler Connaghan has excelled in content strategy, specializing in article writing and website content creation. Through his deep interest in knowledge and partnerships with notable real estate firms, he has refined his skill in producing content that highlights the rental sector's key aspects. Read More

Explore properties in Los Angeles, CA

1 of 23
1 of 25
1 of 19
1 of 21
1 of 100
1 of 40
1 of 26
1 of 70
1 of 26
1 of 33
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Stay up to date on the latest apartment hunting tips.
Next Up
Cost of Living in Los Angeles, CA 2023
14 Things to Know Before Moving to Los Angeles, CA
22 Best Places to Live in California [2024]
×
Your browser is no longer supported. Not all features may work as intended.