Southeast Los Angeles County, Los Angeles County
Lakewood, Los Angeles
A planned community known for its parks and family character
Lakewood is an incorporated city in southeast Los Angeles County, known as a planned community with extensive parks and a strong family character. As an independent city, Lakewood has its own government and services. The city was one of the first planned communities in the country, with a grid of residential streets, parks, and shopping centers. Lakewood's combination of affordable housing, parks, and community makes it a popular choice for families.
History & Local Character
Lakewood was developed in the late 1940s and early 1950s as one of the first large planned communities in the United States. The city incorporated in 1954. The Lakewood Plan, a model for contracting city services from the county, was developed here and became influential in California municipal governance. The city has maintained its residential character and strong community identity.
Neighborhoods & Communities
Lakewood's neighborhoods are primarily residential, with single-family homes on grid streets. The city has several shopping centers, including the Lakewood Center mall. The city's parks and schools are integrated into the residential neighborhoods, giving the city its planned community character.
Housing & Real Estate
Lakewood's housing market offers a range of single-family homes and some apartments. Prices are moderate for Los Angeles County, making the city popular with families. The market is competitive, and the city's parks, schools, and family character are draws.
Restaurants & Shopping
Lakewood's dining scene includes a mix of American, Mexican, and international restaurants along the commercial corridors and in the shopping centers. The city offers a range of family-friendly dining options, and the Lakewood Center area has additional restaurants.
Schools & Education
Lakewood is served by several school districts, including Long Beach Unified School District and Bellflower Unified School District, depending on the area. The quality of schools varies by neighborhood. The city is near Cal State Long Beach and Long Beach City College for higher education.
Parks & Recreation
Lakewood is known for its extensive park system, with numerous neighborhood parks integrated into the residential areas. The city maintains recreation facilities, community centers, and the Lakewood Golf Course. The city is near the beach cities and the San Gabriel River for additional recreation.
Transportation & Accessibility
Lakewood is connected by the 405, 605, and 91 freeways. The city is served by LA Metro bus lines and Lakewood Transit. The city does not have rail service, but the location makes it convenient to Long Beach, the South Bay, and the rest of southeast Los Angeles County.
Local Businesses
Lakewood's economy includes retail, healthcare, and services, with the Lakewood Center mall as a major commercial destination. The city supports a range of small businesses, including restaurants, retail shops, and professional services along the commercial corridors.
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Nearby Attractions
- Lakewood Center mall
- Lakewood parks
- Lakewood Golf Course
- Long Beach (nearby)
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Extensive park system and family character
- Moderate housing prices for Los Angeles County
- Planned community with integrated parks and schools
- Convenient to Long Beach and the South Bay
Considerations
- Traffic on the 405 and 605 freeways
- No direct rail service
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some areas are car-dependent
Lakewood FAQs
Is Lakewood part of the City of Los Angeles?
No. Lakewood is an independent, incorporated city within Los Angeles County, with its own government and services.
Is Lakewood a planned community?
Yes. Lakewood was developed in the late 1940s and early 1950s as one of the first large planned communities in the United States, with parks and schools integrated into the residential areas.
Is Lakewood affordable?
Lakewood offers moderate housing prices for Los Angeles County, with a range of single-family homes, making it popular with families.