New job in Woodland Hills - how's commute from Westlake Village? (Los Angeles: fit in, rentals)

[BlendyWee]

Thinking about relocating now, just got offered a job in Woodland Hills. Really considering Westlake Village, due to low crime rate, good schools, etc. Anyone want to weigh in? Wondering about the commute, hoping it's not too bad. Already checked on house rentals, rents seem to be the same in the entire area unless you go more into Ventura county.

I used to live in Newbury Park many years ago, my sister was actually born in Westlake Village - but our info is pretty out of date.

Thanks for the feedback.

[Charles]

What time are your normal work hours? I recall it backing up the Calabasas grade around 730AM or so but if it is just to Woodland Hills then it isn't that bad.
The 101 does slow down eastbound especially in the mornings when the sun is directly in the drivers' eyes. Not so bad westbound in the afternoon.
Check Sigalert.com Los Angeles Traffic Map during the time you expect to commute.

[BlendyWee]

Thanks - I believe my new hours will be somewhat flexible. Any good alternate routes if the 101 is backed up?

[Charles]

Originally Posted by BlendyWee

Thanks - I believe my new hours will be somewhat flexible. Any good alternate routes if the 101 is backed up?

I doubt any alternate route will save you much time if any. If you have flexible hours and can get in my 7AM then you will have no problems.

Las Virgenes (south) to Mulholland into Calabasas or to Topanga
Las Virgenes (north) to Moureau road to Calabasas Road to Ave San Luis

[BayAreaHillbilly]

Just get on 101. It's not that bad, going that short a distance. Imagine living in Moreno Valley and the likely commute.

[cricket_factor]

It's pretty much a breeze for me. I get on at Westlake Boulevard at 6:55 in the morning and exit at Topanga Canyon Boulevard. I reach Canoga Park at 7:25. Unless there is a major accident farther along the freeway, you shouldn't have much trouble.

[VLWH]

Originally Posted by BlendyWee

Thinking about relocating now, just got offered a job in Woodland Hills. Really considering Westlake Village, due to low crime rate, good schools, etc. Anyone want to weigh in? Wondering about the commute, hoping it's not too bad. Already checked on house rentals, rents seem to be the same in the entire area unless you go more into Ventura county.

I used to live in Newbury Park many years ago, my sister was actually born in Westlake Village - but our info is pretty out of date.

Thanks for the feedback.

Originally Posted by BayAreaHillbilly

Just get on 101. It's not that bad, going that short a distance. Imagine living in Moreno Valley and the likely commute.

I agree with BayAreaHillbilly, the distance is not that bad. If your hours are flexible then you should be able to see for yourself the best time that works for you. You can also look at Calabasas and Agoura hills, they are closer to Woodland Hills and I would suspect the same in regards to low crime and schools.

[BlendyWee]

That's excellent, commute sounds similar to what I have in AZ, commuting from Mesa to Scottsdale. I'll have a look at Calabasas and Agoura Hills too. Thanks, great info!!

[osuzana]

Westlake is only 15 minutes from W.H. but by 5 pm. to around 7 pm it can take you 45 minutes to get home. It usually clogs up around Calabasas and forget about shorts cuts...it's not a secret and everyone thinks it will be quicker...not. I lived in W.H. and if you are single it is much more conducive to that lifestyle than Westlake, Agoura, or Oak Park which are primarily occupied by families. Warner Center is a good spot and very walkable with lots of options for rentals or buying. I lived in Westlake when I was single and found it very boring and that I didn't fit in being single.

[BlendyWee]

It's good to know what the options for families or singles are - we're looking for a more family oriented area. Perhaps we'll check out Agoura & Oak Park too.