Living near Los Angeles doesn’t have to mean battling endless traffic.
Los Angeles offers an exciting mix of entertainment, culture, and incredible weather, but dealing with gridlocked highways every day can drain the fun out of it. Sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic for hours just to commute or run errands makes people wonder if the city’s perks are even worth it. Fortunately, there are nearby cities that provide all the perks of LA living—great food, access to beaches, and a vibrant scene—without the daily nightmare of congestion.
These cities offer the best of both worlds. They’re close enough to LA to enjoy its attractions but far enough to avoid the stress of constant traffic jams. Whether you’re looking for a more affordable home, better work-life balance, or a peaceful retreat with easy access to everything, these nine spots prove you don’t have to sacrifice lifestyle for convenience.
The LA experience is still possible—just without spending half your life stuck on the 405.
1. Pasadena delivers arts, culture, and charm with an easy commute.
Pasadena has everything—tree-lined streets, historic architecture, a thriving arts scene, and fantastic dining—all without feeling overwhelming, as reported by Rachel Hunter of Just Move to Pasadena. Home to the Rose Bowl and renowned museums like The Huntington, it offers a sophisticated, small-city vibe just a short drive from downtown Los Angeles.
Unlike many parts of LA, Pasadena has a well-connected public transportation system, including the Metro Gold Line, making commuting into the city much easier. Residents enjoy walkable neighborhoods, boutique shopping in Old Pasadena, and plenty of green spaces for outdoor activities. It’s a place where you can grab a coffee at an independent café, explore world-class art exhibits, and still avoid the traffic chaos that defines much of LA.
2. Long Beach gives you coastal living without the high price tag.
Long Beach has the ocean views, lively neighborhoods, and cultural attractions of Los Angeles, but with a much more laid-back atmosphere, according to to Bixby Knolls of Extra Space. The city’s waterfront location means easy access to beaches, boat tours, and the scenic Shoreline Village. The Queen Mary and Aquarium of the Pacific add a touch of history and entertainment, while the lively downtown area offers plenty of restaurants and nightlife.
One of the biggest advantages of Long Beach is its transportation options. The Metro Blue Line connects directly to downtown LA, making commuting relatively hassle-free. Unlike the more congested coastal areas of LA, Long Beach has a slower pace of life while still offering everything from art galleries to trendy breweries. It’s an ideal place for those who want a beach town feel without completely detaching from city life.
3. Glendale combines suburban comfort with urban convenience.
Glendale feels like a hidden gem nestled right next to Los Angeles. It’s a thriving city with top-tier shopping, highly rated restaurants, and access to the beautiful Verdugo Mountains for outdoor enthusiasts, as stated by the writes of the Daily Iowan. With The Americana at Brand offering a luxurious open-air shopping experience and a vibrant arts district, there’s never a shortage of things to do.
Glendale’s proximity to both LA and Pasadena makes it one of the best places for an easy commute. The city’s residential neighborhoods are quiet and well-maintained, providing a suburban feel without sacrificing convenience. Plus, it has a strong sense of community, making it a great place for families looking for a balance between city excitement and peaceful living.
4. Redondo Beach offers a relaxed seaside lifestyle with easy LA access.
If living near the ocean without the tourist-packed chaos of Santa Monica sounds appealing, Redondo Beach is a perfect choice. It has stunning coastal views, a charming pier, and plenty of outdoor activities, from surfing to biking along the Strand. The laid-back vibe makes it feel like a true escape from the hectic pace of LA.
Commuting from Redondo Beach is easier than many coastal cities, thanks to access to major freeways and nearby transit options. Unlike some beach towns where housing prices are astronomical, Redondo offers a mix of affordable and high-end homes, making it accessible for more people. With excellent schools, great seafood spots, and endless ocean breezes, it’s an ideal spot for those who want the best of both city and beach life.
5. Burbank is where entertainment meets suburban ease.
Burbank may be home to major studios like Warner Bros. and Disney, but it feels nothing like the hectic Hollywood scene. It offers a quieter, more family-friendly alternative to LA while still providing easy access to the industry’s biggest players. Locals enjoy charming downtown streets, fantastic restaurants, and plenty of parks for outdoor activities.
The best part? Burbank’s traffic situation is far better than most of Los Angeles. Its central location allows for quick access to the Valley, Pasadena, and even downtown LA without the daily gridlock. With top-rated schools and a thriving creative community, Burbank provides a perfect balance of career opportunities and a livable, relaxed environment.
6. Santa Clarita gives you space to breathe while staying connected.
Santa Clarita is one of the best places to escape the congestion of LA while still being within reach of the city. Known for its family-friendly vibe, excellent schools, and beautiful outdoor spaces, it offers a high quality of life with far less traffic stress. The area’s hiking trails, parks, and nearby Six Flags Magic Mountain provide plenty of recreational options.
Commuters benefit from the Metrolink train, which provides a direct route into Los Angeles without the hassle of driving. While some may hesitate at the idea of living farther from the city, Santa Clarita makes up for it with more affordable housing, safer neighborhoods, and a sense of community that’s hard to find in LA’s busier areas.
7. Claremont has a college town charm with a peaceful atmosphere.
Nestled at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Claremont is a picturesque town known for its tree-lined streets, charming downtown, and prestigious colleges. It offers a slower, intellectual vibe with a strong sense of culture, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to escape LA’s chaotic energy.
Claremont’s Metrolink station makes commuting into Los Angeles a breeze, and its well-kept neighborhoods offer a strong contrast to the city’s more crowded areas. With top-notch restaurants, boutique shops, and plenty of green spaces, it’s an ideal place for those who want a blend of suburban tranquility and urban sophistication.
8. Thousand Oaks offers a quiet, upscale alternative to city life.
For those who want to be close to Los Angeles without dealing with the noise and congestion, Thousand Oaks provides a perfect balance. It’s known for its excellent schools, low crime rates, and access to scenic hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains. The city’s mix of upscale shopping centers and quiet residential neighborhoods makes it an attractive option for families and professionals alike.
Although it’s a bit farther from LA than other cities on this list, Thousand Oaks makes up for it with easy freeway access and a much higher quality of life. With great restaurants, a thriving arts scene, and plenty of parks, it’s a place where people can enjoy everything LA has to offer—without living in the middle of the chaos.
9. Irvine combines business, culture, and livability in one package.
Irvine is one of the best-planned cities in California, offering a mix of economic opportunity, cultural attractions, and beautifully designed neighborhoods. With its top-rated schools, tech industry presence, and clean, safe environment, it has become a popular alternative to LA for professionals and families.
Although it’s located in Orange County, Irvine’s extensive freeway connections and transit options make getting to Los Angeles relatively easy. Unlike many parts of LA, Irvine’s traffic flow is far better due to its smart urban planning. With its mix of parks, restaurants, and business hubs, it offers a lifestyle that feels modern, efficient, and far less stressful than living directly in Los Angeles.
These cities prove that enjoying the Southern California lifestyle doesn’t have to mean putting up with LA’s worst traffic headaches. With great neighborhoods, strong local economies, and better commuting options, they offer the best of Los Angeles—without the gridlock.
10. Ventura offers coastal charm and affordability without the LA congestion.
Ventura is one of Southern California’s best-kept secrets. Nestled along the coast between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, it has everything you’d want in a California beach town—stunning ocean views, a relaxed vibe, and plenty of outdoor activities—all without the tourist crowds or sky-high prices of Malibu or Santa Monica. Whether it’s catching waves at Surfer’s Point, exploring the historic downtown, or taking a day trip to the Channel Islands, Ventura offers a lifestyle that feels like a permanent vacation.
Unlike LA’s constant traffic battle, Ventura provides a much more manageable commute while still keeping you connected to the region’s major cities. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner runs directly to Los Angeles, offering a scenic and stress-free alternative to freeway driving. Housing here is more affordable compared to LA’s coastal areas, and the slower pace of life makes it an ideal spot for those who want the perks of Southern California without the daily chaos.