Giving L.A. another try...I'm Pasadena bound. (Inglewood, Compton: apartment complex, rental)

[FarewellLA]

Now that 2008 is here, I have a fresh new outlook on life in LA (well, sort of). I've at least come to an understanding and appreciation for the place although I still feel it is grossly expensive and overcrowded. Still, part of me loves living here. So, I've decided to slow down the pace a notch and try PASADENA, which I've always loved. The only problem is Pasadena is huge and I'm not very familiar with what areas are "good" or "bad", which is why I've come here to ask for HELP.

My question is what are the general boundaries for the "good" areas of Pasadena vs. the "bad" areas (i.e., North of X, South Y, stay away from area Z). I'm also interested in knowing the same for So. Pasadena and maybe even Altadena.

Let me also tell you a little bit about what I'm looking for...

Ideally, I'd like to find a 1 or 2 bedroom rental (duplex or apartment complex) close (and safe) enough to walk to shops, movies, bookstores, etc. Nothing outrageously expensive but not a dump either. I'm female and 40-something.

If anyone has suggestions, please fire away. I'm beginning my search tomorrow.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Happy New Year to all.

[Charles]

Originally Posted by FarewellLA

So, I've decided to slow down the pace a notch and try PASADENA,
Ideally, I'd like to find a 1 or 2 bedroom rental (duplex or apartment complex)

What is your rental budget?

Where will you be working?

[sgvkev]

I know Pasadena very well... the bad areas are north of the 210 between Hill and the Rose Bowl (much of it looks like Compton and Inglewood) and unincorporated east Pasadena (gritty, LOTS of low rent hotels). The bad areas of Altadena are west of Lake and South Pasadena has no bad areas. The areas next to Old Town and South Lake are very good yet very pricey...

[FarewellLA]

Thanks SGVKEV...this will help guide me while I hunt tomorrow. Although based on your description, it will be quite obvious what areas to avoid (i.e., low rent hotels). Thanks again!