What's the best city to live in SoCal for family live yet near media companies/auditions?

Question

Planning to move to So Cal and want to know if Glendale is better than West LA to raise a family but be close enough to be "in the action" of the media companies. I went to check it out a year ago and like West LA best but expensive. Is that too far to audition in Burbank? I would like occasionally auditioning or do extra/background work. Also traffic that's not too bad. I know LA has really heavy traffic but under 40 minutes each way would be good. and Good Elementary Schools. Any locals to So Cal feel free to contact me with any tips. [e-mail].

Answer 1

Glendale is better than West LA as it is closer to Burbank and further from the bad area. However, Glendale is more expensive than average for LA. And everywhere in LA is expensive.

Do understand that about 1 million of the 15 million people in LA are trying to audition for for roles. Also be aware that extra work barely pays minimum wage. The average annual earnings for members of SAG is about $8,000. And that includes the people who make millions a year.

The odds are about 1 in 50,000 that you can make a living in show business in LA.

As for commuting, in central LA, a 40 minute commute can be under 10 miles. I live in Orange County and have a 20 mile commute and it takes 40 minutes to an hour.

For an idea for typical rents, check out www.craigslist.org

Answer 2

Of the cities you mentioned West LA is the nicest, and most expensive (but, the schools aren't great). Glendale is gross and populated by mean, aggressive Armenian men. Burbank is very safe and family-oriented. Quite suburban. Good schools (not part of LAUSD, which is a  good thing!).  Auditions could potentially be all over the city (Burbank, Hollywood, Culver City, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, etc).  

Lots of houses are available for rent these days because of the economy -- in Burbank they're going for $2500-$3000 for a 2-3 bedroom house. Better than some of the new apartment buildings that have been constructed!  In west LA or the westside it's significantly more expensive.  

Unless you're a fairly successful actor or have a great agent I imagine you will not be going on auditions that often.  So I wouldn't worry about the commute.  

Answer 3

orange countynewport beach

Answer 4

I did extra work, but the pay is so insignificant, that it's really just a hobby....  Traffic is bad anywhere.  A 20-mile commute can actually take up to 2 HOURS during rush hour (from Corona to Orange County, is a good example)  ...  The Glendale area is probably the closest nice area to Burbank; but check out the housing costs on-line before you move.  And, make sure you have a well-paying job before you come.....