Working in Rosemead (Pasadena, El Monte, Alhambra: apartment, rentals, condo)

[Mr_Geek]

I have done my research and seen many older threads but the details are all slightly different from mine and I'd like to get updated replies as things change so quickly in southern California.

I have just gotten a job and will work in Rosemead near Rosemead blvd and the 60. I am looking for a place to rent and I'd like some suggestions. It will be me, my wife and my 1 year old son. Max rent about $2000 give or take a few. I only need a 2 bedroom place.

I'd like a somewhat easy commute (30 minutes or so) working the standard hours of 8-5. Maybe do 7-4. I'm considering San Gabriel, Temple City, Alhambra, South Pasadena, Arcadia and maybe even Sierra Madre.

What could $2000 get me in these areas? Would a small 2/1 house be possible on my budget in any of these areas? Are there other cities you recommend? Any other advice?

Thanks!

[pretendingtowork]

You would be hard pressed to find a house in Arcadia, South pas or Sierra Madre for $2000. Possibly in Alhambra, San Garbiel or Temple City. I would check out westsiderentals.com or craigslist.com so you can get an idea of market prices for rentals right now.

[genjy]

Rosemead is sort of one of the poorer and less safe cities in that area, so I would suggest avoid living in Rosemead if possible... same with El Monte, Montebello, and Baldwin Park.

I don't know much about rent prices, but out of the cities you are looking, I would choose in this order, taking into consideration that you have a family and want a short commute:

Arcadia
Temple City
Monterey Park
Alhambra
San Gabriel
Pasadena
Sierra Madre

[ccm123]

South Pasadena would be a great choice, but expensive. Safe with good schools. I lived there for a number of years and would move back if business took me back to SoCal.

I would also look into Pasadena, particularly the central and eastern sides, as it is close to Rosemead, giving you a nice commute to work. Great amenities close by: Old Town, museums, shopping, etc

[Mr_Geek]

Thanks for the suggestions so far. It probably won't make a difference but I forgot to mention in my initial post I will have access to the carpool lanes as a single rider.

I'm a bit torn because I'd really prefer a small house and would even up my budget a bit but the nicer areas I'm probably still priced out of.

[CA4Now]

Originally Posted by Mr_Geek

I'd really prefer a small house and would even up my budget a bit but the nicer areas I'm probably still priced out of.

What about trying a realtor to rent a house or condo? H/she could screen out any questionable areas. With a young child, you'd want something different than a single person might. Personally, I'd try for Sierra Madre or South Pas.

[Mr_Geek]

Originally Posted by CA4Now

What about trying a realtor to rent a house or condo? H/she could screen out any questionable areas. With a young child, you'd want something different than a single person might. Personally, I'd try for Sierra Madre or South Pas.

I'll keep an eye on those areas. I found I might be able to get a small house rental in Sierra Madre for my budget. South Pasadena I'll be in an apartment. I wonder what the commute would be like from Sierra Madre? It would be all streets.

[HyperionGap]

Rosemead blvd is actually a state highway and was planned to be the rio hondo freeway. I don't remember what the speed limit gets up to but there are portions where there are no intersections and I'm pretty sure it's at least 50 mph.

That said you should be able to get from Hastings ranch or Sierra madre to Rosemead in less than 20 minutes during off peak hours.

[Pacifico]

I hear great things about La Verne..

[Mr_Geek]

Originally Posted by Pacifico

I hear great things about La Verne..

La Verne is very nice however the commute at 8 and 5 would be miserable. It's about 22 miles from my work and would be going with the horrible traffic in the morning and afternoon.