Are you considering moving to Glendale, CA? You’ve probably asked yourself: is Glendale CA a good place to live? This vibrant city in Los Angeles County is known for its strong Armenian community, safe neighborhoods, and prime location just north of downtown LA.
Nicknamed The Jewel City, Glendale was incorporated in 1906 and has grown into a cultural hub with deep roots and modern appeal. It’s also a major player in the entertainment industry, home to studios like DreamWorks Animation. The city’s name - derived from “glen” and “dale” - literally means “valley valley.”
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Where Is Glendale, California?
Glendale is in Los Angeles County in Southern California, located in the eastern San Fernando Valley at the base of the Verdugo Mountains. Although most residents enjoy Glendale’s central location, which connects Glendale to major LA hubs, one common question is, Is Glendale CA a good place to live when it comes to daily convenience? Yes, but do keep in mind thereis heavy traffic during peak hours.
The city borders several San Fernando Valley communities, including Burbank, Pasadena, La Cañada Flintridge, and Los Angeles neighborhoods like Atwater Village and Eagle Rock. It’s about 10 miles north of downtown Los Angeles.
Public transportation is available through LA Metro, with local and express buses as well as nearby access to the Metrolink commuter rail via the Glendale Station. Access to public transit often factors into the question, is Glendale CA a good place to live if you don’t drive?
Glendale CA Population
Glendale had a population of 196,543 in the 2020 Census, making it the fourth-largest city in Los Angeles County and 24th in California. However, estimates indicate a decline to approximately 187,823 residents by 2024, a 4.4% decrease over four years. The city spans about 30.6 square miles, resulting in a population density of roughly 6,448.5 people per square mile.
Glendale is a richly diverse city where no single background tells the whole story - a key detail when weighing Is Glendale CA a good place to live for people of all cultures.
About 67.4% of residents identify as White (62.3% non-Hispanic), but the cultural makeup doesn’t stop there - 13.3% are Asian, 9.1% come from other races, and 7.9% identify as multiracial. Black or African American residents make up 1.7%, and 0.5% are Native American. Meanwhile, nearly one in five Glendale residents (18.5%) is Hispanic or Latino.
Glendale Demographics
- Gender: 48% male, 52% female
- Median age: 43 years
- Median household income: $81,365
- Educational attainment:
- High school graduate or higher: 89%
- Bachelor's degree or higher: 45.5%
- Foreign-born population: 50.9%
- Married couples: 60% of households
- Poverty rate: 12.9%
Source: Census Reporter
For families and working professionals alike, these stats help answer is Glendale CA a good place to live based on stability and lifestyle.
Several accomplished individuals have called Glendale home, including actor Paul Walker, actress Eva Mendes, and all four members of the Grammy-winning rock band System of a Down, who met while attending school in the city.
Is Glendale CA safe?
Yes! For those wondering, Is Glendale CA a good place to live from a safety perspective? It’s one of the safer cities in Southern California. Based on the latest FBI data, Glendale's crime rate of 1,976 per 100,000 residents is 30.5% lower than the California average and 15.0% lower than the national average.
With only 150 violent crimes per 100,000 people, the city is 70% safer than the state average and 59.4% safer than the national average when it comes to violent crime. Even property crimes are 22.1% lower than the state average and 6.6% lower than the national average, at 1,826 per 100,000 residents - another factor to consider when asking, is Glendale CA a good place to live compared to nearby cities.
The Glendale Police Department has served the city since 1906 and has 233 sworn officers focused on public safety and crime prevention.
Glendale CA Cost of Living
For anyone asking, “Is Glendale CA a good place to live on a middle-class budget?”, Glendale's cost of living is 63% higher than the U.S. average, which makes it more expensive than other cities in Southern California, like Santa Barbara. Housing expenses, at 189% above the national average, are a reason for the high cost of living here. According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four would need to earn around $134,902 annually to maintain a modest yet adequate standard of living.
Typical Glendale Living Expenses
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $21.00
- Cappuccino: $5.90
- Gallon of milk: $4.65
- Dozen eggs: $5.25
- Gallon of gas: $4.89
- Average monthly utilities: $192.54
* Includes Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage
Source: Numbeo
California’s progressive income tax ranges from 1% to 13.3%, the highest in the U.S. Glendale’s property tax, managed by Los Angeles County, is 1% of assessed home value. Sales tax in Glendale totals 10.25%, including state, county, and city rates. These taxes add to the financial picture when asking is Glendale CA a good place to live from a cost perspective.
Glendale CA Real Estate | Homes for Sale in Glendale CA
Real estate plays a major role in answering is Glendale CA a good place to live for long-term homeowners. According to Redfin, the median home price in Glendale is approximately $1,187,500, which is significantly higher than the national median of $438,357. The average price per square foot is around $712, and homes typically sell within 36 days on the market.
For those interested in Glendale, CA homes for sale, the median sale price for single-family homes is around $1,422,500, for townhomes, it is $945,000, and for condos, $634,000.
If you’re more interested in renting an apartment, the average rent in Lakeville, according to RentCafe, is $3,023, and the average size is 862 sq. feet.
Best Glendale Neighborhoods
Neighborhoods are one of the biggest factors in answering the question: is Glendale CA a good place to live? The good news? There’s a fit for every lifestyle.
Known for its hills, eclectic homes, and creative vibe, Adams Hill offers a quiet feel with great views and easy access to the Americana at Brand.
Rossmoyne - Family-Friendly and Historic
Rossmoyne’s charming older homes, leafy streets, and top schools make it ideal for families wanting a peaceful suburban atmosphere. For those wondering, is Glendale CA a good place to live, neighborhoods like Rossmoyne make a strong case.
Verdugo’s tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and excellent schools are perfect for those seeking a calm, nature-filled environment.
Downtown offers walkable living with plenty of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, plus modern apartments for young professionals.
Glendale Weather
Glendale, California, has a Mediterranean climate (Köppen classification Csa), which is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Summers are typically warm and sunny, with average high temperatures in July around 87°F, ideal for those asking “is Glendale CA a good place to live if you love a Mediterranean climate?”. Winters are mild, with average lows in January near 45°F. Glendale receives about 17 inches of annual rainfall, mainly between December and March.
Glendale occasionally experiences poor air quality, especially during the summer and fall months, due to smog and wildfires. This environmental factor is one to consider when pondering is Glendale CA a good place to live year-round.
Things to Do in Glendale CA
Still wondering, is Glendale CA a good place to live? With so many attractions and amenities, the answer is a resounding yes. Glendale offers plenty of fun things to do for visitors and residents alike. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, cultural spots, or outdoor adventures, moving to Glendale CA means you’ll never run out of things to explore.
A top outdoor shopping and entertainment spot on Brand Boulevard, featuring upscale stores, dining, and a scenic fountain plaza with seasonal events.
889 Americana Way, Glendale, CA 91210, (818) 637-8982
One of Southern California’s largest malls, it features a wide variety of retailers, dining options, and entertainment, including a movie theater.
100 W Broadway Suite 100, Glendale, CA 91210, (818) 459-4184
Brand Park offers walking trails and picnic areas, while the Brand Library & Art Center, located in a historic building, hosts art exhibits, concerts, and workshops.
1601 W Mountain St, Glendale, CA 91201, (818) 548-2051
Additional Attractions in Glendale:
- Deukmejian Wilderness Park - A scenic park at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying panoramic views.
- Alex Theatre - A historic performing arts venue hosting concerts, plays, film screenings, and community events.
- Verdugo Park - A family-friendly park with sports fields, playgrounds, and plenty of space for weekend gatherings.
Glendale’s Parks and Recreation Department manages numerous parks and recreational facilities. Be sure to check the City of Glendale Events Calendar! Plus, thanks to the city's proximity to both Ventura County and Los Angeles, beach getaways and iconic outdoor spaces like Griffith Park are always within reach, perfect for a quick coastal escape or a scenic hike with skyline views. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the easy access to nature helps answer “is Glendale CA a good place to live for active lifestyles?”
Glendale Restaurants
From iconic bakeries to Mediterranean staples and family-run Italian joints, Glendale restaurants serve up a rich blend of flavors - another win for food lovers asking Is Glendale CA a good place to live. Here are some of the best places to eat in Glendale, CA.
A Glendale institution, Porto’s is famous for its freshly baked pastries, savory potato balls, and Cuban sandwiches. Expect long lines, but also expect it to be worth it. The family-owned bakery has been a local favorite for decades, drawing food lovers from all over Southern California.
315 N Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91203, (818) 956-5996
Zankou Chicken is a beloved local chain known for its juicy rotisserie chicken, garlic sauce, and flavorful Middle Eastern plates. Affordable, quick, and delicious, it’s a go-to spot for both takeout and casual dine-in meals.
1415 E Colorado St, Glendale, CA 91205, (818) 244-2237
This old-school Italian restaurant has been serving hearty pasta dishes, homemade sauces, and veal parm since 1977. It’s cozy, nostalgic, and packed with charm, perfect for a comforting dinner out.
1524 E Colorado St, Glendale, CA 91205, (818) 247-9777
Jobs in Glendale CA
Glendale’s diverse economy - anchored by healthcare, entertainment, and retail - is a solid point in favor of is Glendale CA a good place to live for job seekers. According to Payscale, the average salary in Glendale is $85,000 per year and approximately $24.54 per hour, as of May 2025. Major employers include:
For current openings, check out jobs in Glendale on Indeed or visit the City of Glendale Jobs Board.
Glendale Unified School District
Education quality is crucial when families ask is Glendale CA a good place to live for raising children. Glendale is served by Glendale Unified School District (GUSD), a highly regarded district with over 25,000 students across 32 schools.
While there are no major universities within city limits, Glendale is centrally located near some institutions, including:
Residents can access a wide range of resources through the Glendale Library, Arts & Culture system.
Glendale CA Statistics & Information
- County: Los Angeles County
- Glendale area: 30.61 sq mi
- Glendale zip codes: 91201–91210, 91214, 91221, 91222, 91224–91226
- Glendale area code: 747 and 818
- Glendale elevation: 522 ft
- Time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC -7 and -8)
The Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is the closest airport to Glendale, just 8 miles away. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is about 26 miles to the southwest.
Glendale CA Map
Thinking of Moving to Glendale CA?
Is Glendale CA a good place to live? Absolutely. Living in Glendale, CA, means enjoying scenic mountain views, a vibrant downtown, and some of Southern California’s best food, schools, and shopping.
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