Tips or advice about commuting in LA?

Question

My fiance' and I will be relocating to CA from Wisconsin. He just got a job in Irwindale, CA, and we are trying to figure out where the best place is to get an apartment. I want to look for jobs in the entertainment industry, for casting, and I know I will have the most luck near Hollywood, Century City, Burbank, etc. If we got an apartment in one of those cities, how bad would the commute be for my fiance, traveling to Irwindale, at around 5, or 6am every morning? Or, is there a city in the middle that will be easy for both of us to commute?

Please, only serious answers from people who live in CA, preferably near the LA area, and have experience with the drive.

Thank you!

Answer 1

Irwindale isn't far from Hollywood and Burbank.  As far as where to live, look into Arcadia, West Covina, El Monte, Alhambra, or, if you can afford it, Pasadena.  These cities will be central to both.

Answer 2

The commute that early in the morning wouldn't be all that bad. The best route to take would be US 101 North to SR 134 east to I-210 east. If you are looking for a midpoint, you might want to consider Pasadena or Glendale. Keep in mind that rush hour is from 7AM-9AM and from 4PM-7PM. Try to avoid commuting during these hours. And watch out for the "anti-gridlock zones" on the streets. If you park during rush hour in such zones, your vehicle WILL be towed!