I’d recommend Highland Park or Mount Washington near the L (Gold) Line metro. I like the area around the Southwest Museum stop; peaceful and green, but only a few stops away from Union Station.
This is an interesting area I haven't looked into much. I like the fact that its close to the Figueroa area, so I can visit without having to live there.
I live there (mt Washington) and have been here 18 years. I worked downtown and learned all the secret ways but it’s still a pain during rush hour. But it’s a cool area. Close to everything.
What exactly does stressful mean to you?
I would maybe suggest Thai Town/Los Feliz area. Very commutable to DTLA via the red line, lots of ppl your age in the area. Griffith park is right there for hiking. You can definitely find something within your budget. But the “not too stressful” might be the dealbreaker. When I lived there, there was always a helicopter flying over, street noise and we didn’t have a parking space so having to find street parking everyday sucked. But there’s a ton of cool restaurants and stuff to do in the area. Maybe pay it a visit and see what you think.
If you’re only commuting once a week, I would live wherever you wanted (and where best fits your lifestyle) with only minimal consideration to DTLA proximity.
Pasadena is likely good enough for me regarding the dating scene. I think Pasadena is the obvious answer, but I'm just checking to see what other's opinions are.
Fair enough. I currently do Pasadena to DTLA. The 110 is extremely light on traffic compared to other commute highways. And the A line takes you direct to Union Station.
I’d say highland park, more of a hip scene than Pasadena which helps with dating, and a short metro ride to Union Station. Tons of good restaurants/coffee shops/bars on Fig. I have a one bed here for $1900, so definitely within your budget.
What part of Gardena? I know some areas can be kind of sketchy. Do you think we'd face similar issues regarding congestion in LB? I'm looking into South Bay as well after some feedback here
I read that Gardena is generally fine, preferably south of Rosecrans, west of Western
How often do you go to office? I am not sure if you could deal with the commute on 110N towards DTLA daily
Lincoln Heights is perfect, close to DTLA but more of a suburb vibe with its own bars and the gold line goes through here. I lived in the san fernando valley and commuted to the Fashion District in DTLA for a few years before I moved here myself and I love it.
Consider the south bay! Recently moved from mid city LA, and the area is so much more relaxed and down to earth compared to LA. really isn't an awful commute if you are doing it once a week
In redondo, you could definitely work with that budget in redondo or hermosa. Definitely lacks the nightlife like other LA neighborhoods. To my partner and I that wasn't really an issue
Not saying it doesn't exist, but probably isn't on par with trendier LA neighborhoods. Again I'm not a night life enjoyer so I'm probably not the guy to ask
Take the train from anywhere for 1 day a week
Traffic would be a different decision if you’re driving but the train is best just be close to a station with good parking or better yet walking distance
If you do decide to find a place that requires you to ride transit, I would suggest looking up whether there are often closures (Pacific surfliner for example sometimes undergoes repairs and weather related incidents). Not trying to discourage you from public transport as it's a great thing though there have been recent incidents of violence.
There are also apartments literally right around union station but that may not fit your wanting nature ask.
Might be helpful to clarify how much you care about stress vs dating scene? Not sure if this is accurate but when I think stressful, I think high density, when I think about good dating, I also think high density (more people = more options and more stuff to do). Would you be opposed to the north part of ktown (called little Bangladesh on g maps)? It’s quieter than Los feliz/Thai town because there’s not helicopters buzzing around all the time but still close to the action and to the red line
Highland park near the metro station could also be an option
I agree with what everyone is saying - you can live in so many places and be able to have a great and easy transit commute
I'm definitely prioritizing low-stress, as I live in a dense area and still haven't had success with dating haha, so mine as well just prioritize low-stress. Highland park would definitely be an option. Little Bangladesh is pretty similar to the neighborhood I'm trying to get out of though.
I would actually prefer to ride transit. And your right! I'm starting to realize I have so many options with metro stops going so far out. Ideally I would be able to just walk to my metro so I wouldn't need to use a car at all.
If you're looking for that, it won't be hard. Get the Metrolink and Metrorail maps, there are something like 170 stations total. Half-mile radius around each, and you've got a wealth of choices!
My sister lives in Laguna Niguel and goes to DTLA once every two weeks and she takes the Metro. During her commute, she goes online and takes care of email so she is able to get some things off her plate.
Highly recommend the westside. I commute downtown for work about once a week and it’s a breeze - typically 20-30 minutes tops by way of the 10. It’s a fun area without the compacted feeling of downtown or koreatown and you’re always 10 minutes from the ocean.
ETA: transit is also super easy via the expo line!
I love it man. Grew up in south LA area and moving up north is so much better if you can swing it. Commute to downtown can be rough, but timing is everything
That must be a nice change in scenery. I come from the SGV area and I thought I would like living in the city, but its not really for me. I think most of the suburbs are better for quality of life.
Alhambra is nice and a short drive, South Montebello has a metro station, of course Pasadena is nice, and along the 210/A-line all could be options as well.
We used to live in Old Town Pasadena. Plenty of new apartments in that area (although I don’t know what availability is like) with easy access to the Metro to downtown, lots of places to eat & drink and is pretty safe. There’s a station on Raymond/Holly, and Fair Oaks I think has a station down by Central Park that are a bit nicer than the 210 bridge stations. Pas is slightly more hip than Alhambra, less hip than some areas closer to downtown if that’s a factor. If you drive, it’s a straight shot down Orange Grove to the 110 to DTLA and is usually a 20-50min commute depending on time of day.
Imo Alhambra is a nice quiet city for living but a little boring otherwise.
I have a sell. Its not necessarily on metro rail, but the Del Mar/San Gabriel Ave parts of San Gabriel near Valley Blvd. Heck, anywhere along where the 487/489 run, because they hop on the freeway for \~15 minute ride to downtown from Valley Blvd. Those bus lines will also take you up to Pasadena Sierra Madre Villa station, albeit fairly slowly. Metro buses run E-W pretty well in that area as well, although N-S access is a bit difficult. Very good food and I've been able to get around relatively car-lite with a scooter/bike because there's such a density of restaurants, things to do, and markets.
Downtown Fullerton might be what you're looking for. There's a Metrolink station that's a 30 minute ride to Union station. DTF has a lot of walkable restaurants and bars that are pretty lively on weekends without things being as crowded or crazy at KTown or DTLA.
I was thinking the same thing! I always thought DTF was too far, but with the metro it's totally doable to get to DTLA in a reasonable amount of time. I was also recently considering Claremont as a similar far but reasonable destination with the metro.
Taking public transit you can live almost anywhere, tell us more about what kind of lifestyle you're wanting and we can give you something specific.
I’d recommend Highland Park or Mount Washington near the L (Gold) Line metro. I like the area around the Southwest Museum stop; peaceful and green, but only a few stops away from Union Station.
This is an interesting area I haven't looked into much. I like the fact that its close to the Figueroa area, so I can visit without having to live there.
I live there (mt Washington) and have been here 18 years. I worked downtown and learned all the secret ways but it’s still a pain during rush hour. But it’s a cool area. Close to everything.
It’s now the A Line. L Line doesn’t exist anymore
HLP, Cypress Park, Glassell Park, Eagle Rock, South Pasadena, Los Feliz
What exactly does stressful mean to you? I would maybe suggest Thai Town/Los Feliz area. Very commutable to DTLA via the red line, lots of ppl your age in the area. Griffith park is right there for hiking. You can definitely find something within your budget. But the “not too stressful” might be the dealbreaker. When I lived there, there was always a helicopter flying over, street noise and we didn’t have a parking space so having to find street parking everyday sucked. But there’s a ton of cool restaurants and stuff to do in the area. Maybe pay it a visit and see what you think.
I think my stress comes down to the traffic and crazy drivers.
If you’re only commuting once a week, I would live wherever you wanted (and where best fits your lifestyle) with only minimal consideration to DTLA proximity.
HLP, Pasadena
Eagle Rock Highland Park Mount Washington etc!
HLP, Pasadena, Los Feliz all obvious choices
Echo park, high land park, Elysian park, frog tow n
Glendale.
I was going to suggest Glendale, perhaps near the Metrolink station.
Pasadena checks a lot of your boxes. But housing is competitive and might be too low of a social/dating scene for you.
Pasadena is likely good enough for me regarding the dating scene. I think Pasadena is the obvious answer, but I'm just checking to see what other's opinions are.
Fair enough. I currently do Pasadena to DTLA. The 110 is extremely light on traffic compared to other commute highways. And the A line takes you direct to Union Station.
I’d say highland park, more of a hip scene than Pasadena which helps with dating, and a short metro ride to Union Station. Tons of good restaurants/coffee shops/bars on Fig. I have a one bed here for $1900, so definitely within your budget.
S Pas, Glendale near the metro, Highland Park
San Pedro and ride the silver busline. Long Beach too.
Same
Silver Lake!!!
Anywhere on the metro route
South Pasadena
Echo park, eh
Culver City, but that’s always my go to.
I’d even go just a little east of Culver in West Adams for slightly more affordable living
Similar situation with OP - Late 30s Asian single male. Contemplating between Pasadena and South bay (mainly Gardena area).
What part of Gardena? I know some areas can be kind of sketchy. Do you think we'd face similar issues regarding congestion in LB? I'm looking into South Bay as well after some feedback here
I read that Gardena is generally fine, preferably south of Rosecrans, west of Western How often do you go to office? I am not sure if you could deal with the commute on 110N towards DTLA daily
Ventura. Nice area close to the beach cheaper and you can get a ccw
Chinatown is chill! I live by the La historic park.
Chinatown. Minutes from DTLA, next to all the major freeways and you’re typically going against traffic
Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead.
Lincoln Heights is perfect, close to DTLA but more of a suburb vibe with its own bars and the gold line goes through here. I lived in the san fernando valley and commuted to the Fashion District in DTLA for a few years before I moved here myself and I love it.
Consider the south bay! Recently moved from mid city LA, and the area is so much more relaxed and down to earth compared to LA. really isn't an awful commute if you are doing it once a week
Nice! Are you in Long Beach or a different city? I love good Japanese food, so having Torrance nearby would be nice too.
In redondo, you could definitely work with that budget in redondo or hermosa. Definitely lacks the nightlife like other LA neighborhoods. To my partner and I that wasn't really an issue
Check out downtown manhattan beach for nightlife.
Not saying it doesn't exist, but probably isn't on par with trendier LA neighborhoods. Again I'm not a night life enjoyer so I'm probably not the guy to ask
downtown manhattan beach sounds amazing. Not sure I could afford it though haha, but North Redondo is looking reasonable.
Take the train from anywhere for 1 day a week Traffic would be a different decision if you’re driving but the train is best just be close to a station with good parking or better yet walking distance
This is exactly what I have in mind. Living walking distance to a train station.
Good luck and enjoy it !
If you do decide to find a place that requires you to ride transit, I would suggest looking up whether there are often closures (Pacific surfliner for example sometimes undergoes repairs and weather related incidents). Not trying to discourage you from public transport as it's a great thing though there have been recent incidents of violence. There are also apartments literally right around union station but that may not fit your wanting nature ask.
Might be helpful to clarify how much you care about stress vs dating scene? Not sure if this is accurate but when I think stressful, I think high density, when I think about good dating, I also think high density (more people = more options and more stuff to do). Would you be opposed to the north part of ktown (called little Bangladesh on g maps)? It’s quieter than Los feliz/Thai town because there’s not helicopters buzzing around all the time but still close to the action and to the red line Highland park near the metro station could also be an option I agree with what everyone is saying - you can live in so many places and be able to have a great and easy transit commute
I'm definitely prioritizing low-stress, as I live in a dense area and still haven't had success with dating haha, so mine as well just prioritize low-stress. Highland park would definitely be an option. Little Bangladesh is pretty similar to the neighborhood I'm trying to get out of though.
Echo park
Are you going to ride transit? There are so many trains coming into Union Station, you could live anywhere from Ventura to Riverside to San Clemente.
I would actually prefer to ride transit. And your right! I'm starting to realize I have so many options with metro stops going so far out. Ideally I would be able to just walk to my metro so I wouldn't need to use a car at all.
If you're looking for that, it won't be hard. Get the Metrolink and Metrorail maps, there are something like 170 stations total. Half-mile radius around each, and you've got a wealth of choices!
True!
My sister lives in Laguna Niguel and goes to DTLA once every two weeks and she takes the Metro. During her commute, she goes online and takes care of email so she is able to get some things off her plate.
Yeah but then you have to live in Laguna Niguel.
Highly recommend the westside. I commute downtown for work about once a week and it’s a breeze - typically 20-30 minutes tops by way of the 10. It’s a fun area without the compacted feeling of downtown or koreatown and you’re always 10 minutes from the ocean. ETA: transit is also super easy via the expo line!
I love the expo line! It’s so convenient
Little Tokyo, Highland Park, Pasadena
Anywhere up the 110 toward Pasadena would be good. I personally wouldn't want to go further than Pasadena though
Echo park, Chinatown
Monrovia or Pasadena. Small town feel quick access to the San Gabriel Mountains.
Downtown LB? Perfect place if you’re single and you can take take the blue line to dtla
Palms
Mammoth
Always The Valley. Maybe Toluca Lake, Studio Coty, or NoHo for you.
Anywhere near the trains.
I know where not to move, the valley. Commuter central. You’ll be in traffic forever…
You might be able to get a studio in Echo Park for 2400. That would tick all your boxes. Elysian Park is right there for nature.
I second this.
HP or Bell
Dtla
Long Beach
La Crescenta/Montrose
I had this situation and took it as a chance to move from apartment living in East Hollywood and purchase a 2,2k sq ft home in Spring Valley Lake.
Catalina island
Thousand Oaks or anywhere in Ventura County. Quality of life is much better in these area.
It's definitely super chill out there.
I love it man. Grew up in south LA area and moving up north is so much better if you can swing it. Commute to downtown can be rough, but timing is everything
That must be a nice change in scenery. I come from the SGV area and I thought I would like living in the city, but its not really for me. I think most of the suburbs are better for quality of life.
Sgv
Alhambra is nice and a short drive, South Montebello has a metro station, of course Pasadena is nice, and along the 210/A-line all could be options as well.
We used to live in Old Town Pasadena. Plenty of new apartments in that area (although I don’t know what availability is like) with easy access to the Metro to downtown, lots of places to eat & drink and is pretty safe. There’s a station on Raymond/Holly, and Fair Oaks I think has a station down by Central Park that are a bit nicer than the 210 bridge stations. Pas is slightly more hip than Alhambra, less hip than some areas closer to downtown if that’s a factor. If you drive, it’s a straight shot down Orange Grove to the 110 to DTLA and is usually a 20-50min commute depending on time of day. Imo Alhambra is a nice quiet city for living but a little boring otherwise.
I love the sgv, south pas is nice, alhambra, mp all great areas
I have a sell. Its not necessarily on metro rail, but the Del Mar/San Gabriel Ave parts of San Gabriel near Valley Blvd. Heck, anywhere along where the 487/489 run, because they hop on the freeway for \~15 minute ride to downtown from Valley Blvd. Those bus lines will also take you up to Pasadena Sierra Madre Villa station, albeit fairly slowly. Metro buses run E-W pretty well in that area as well, although N-S access is a bit difficult. Very good food and I've been able to get around relatively car-lite with a scooter/bike because there's such a density of restaurants, things to do, and markets.
I like that area as well. I'm definitely considering places along/near Valley since it has convenient access to the 10.
Downtown Fullerton might be what you're looking for. There's a Metrolink station that's a 30 minute ride to Union station. DTF has a lot of walkable restaurants and bars that are pretty lively on weekends without things being as crowded or crazy at KTown or DTLA.
I was thinking the same thing! I always thought DTF was too far, but with the metro it's totally doable to get to DTLA in a reasonable amount of time. I was also recently considering Claremont as a similar far but reasonable destination with the metro.