Moving to Glendale

Uncover the charm of suburban living in vibrant Glendale, CA! Famous for its delightful Mediterranean climate, rich cultural heritage, breathtaking mountain views, and a bustling downtown area, Glendale captivates hearts with an impeccable mix of urban and residential bliss. If moving to this Southern Californian jewel is on your horizon, you've made a splendid choice. Our comprehensive Glendale relocation guide promises to whisk you through every essential detail, from neighborhoods to schools, leisure spots, and more, making your transition absolutely smooth. So, let's embark on this excitement-filled journey to your future home city.

Moving to Glendale, CA landscape image

What to Know Before Moving to Glendale

1. Glendale is Home to a Medley of Cultures

California is known for its rich cultural diversity and nowhere is this more evident than in Glendale. The city is home to a vibrant blend of cultures from around the world. You'll find the largest Armenian population outside of Armenia here, making the city a haven for exotic foods, rich traditions, and unique cultures.

2. The Dining Scene is not to be Missed

Foodies, rejoice! Glendale's dining scene is as eclectic as its population. From authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Raffi's Place to upscale dining at Bourbon Steak, there's no shortage of delightful culinary experiences. Don't miss out on the city's specialty - the glazed donut ice cream sandwich at Colorado Donuts. It's a treat, we promise!

3. You're Actually Moving to the Third Largest City in LA County

Many imagine Glendale to be a small town nestled next to LA, but in reality, it's the third largest city in LA County. With over 200,000 residents, Glendale boasts of unique neighborhoods, excellent infrastructure, and a bustling retail scene.

4. Glendale Sports an Interesting History

Yes, that's right! Glendale is not just another 'city'. It holds some fascinating pages of history, including being the birthplace of the first Baskin-Robbins ice cream store, and hosting the first ever "Cops and Doughnuts" event.

5. Be Mindful of Parking Regulations

One thing they don't tell you about Glendale: parking can be tedious. Many residential streets require parking permits, with Thursday and Friday street-cleaning days adding to the no-parking restriction list. But don't let this discourage you! Once you figure out the rules, it becomes a part of everyday Glendale life.

6. Glendale Loves Its Festivals!

Last but not least, Glendale sure knows how to throw a party! The city hosts a splendid array of festivals throughout the year. From the Chocolate Festival in February to the Cruise Night car show in July to the Glendale Arts & Culture Festival in fall, there is always something fun happening in town.

Now you're all set and ready to dive headfirst into your Glendale adventure. Remember, moving here is not just moving to a city, it's an invitation to be part of a diverse cultural community, brimming with history, food, and festivities. Welcome home, dear friend!

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Pros and Cons of Living in Glendale

Pros of Living in Glendale

Great Weather

Glendale, California boasts an excellent climate characterized by warm, sunny weather almost all year. This makes it an ideal area for those who enjoy the outdoors and participating in activities like hiking, biking, or just taking in the beautiful scenery.

Excellent School System

The city is home to many high-quality schools, making it an excellent place to raise a family. From public to private institutions, there are plenty of options that offer competitive and diverse educational programs.

Safe Neighborhoods

Glendale is known for its low crime rates and safe neighborhoods. The city's police department is also highly rated, providing a strong sense of safety and security for its residents.

Diverse Food Scene

Residents of Glendale enjoy a rich and diverse food scene. From an array of world cuisines available at the many local restaurants, foodies will surely appreciate the culinary diversity offered in this city.

Strong Sense of Community

Another advantage to living in Glendale is the strong sense of community among residents. The city regularly hosts community events, festivals and parades which makes it easier to meet new people and foster a sense of belonging.

Cons of Living in Glendale

High Cost of Living

It is no secret that California's cost of living is fairly high when compared to the national average, and Glendale is no exception. Everything from groceries to healthcare may cost significantly more than in other states.

Traffic and Commuting

Like many cities in California, Glendale struggles with heavy traffic congestion - especially during rush hours. Coupled with limited public transportation options, commuting can be a major source of frustration for many.

Air Quality

Unfortunately, Glendale sometimes suffers from poor air quality due to pollution. This can often lead to public health advisories, especially during periods of high heat.

Limited Nightlife

Although Glendale has a variety of restaurants, its nightlife scene may not be as vibrant or diverse as in other major cities. If you are someone who enjoys a bustling nightlife, this might be a drawback.

Risk of Earthquakes

As with all of California, Glendale is susceptible to earthquakes due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire. This is a risk that residents must accept when living in this region.

Modern day picture of Glendale, CA highlighting pros and cons of living in Glendale, CA

Is Glendale a Good Place to Live?

Glendale, CA is a great place to live because of its perfect balance of urban sophistication and suburban comfort, coupled with its accessible amenities, great schools and a thriving arts scene. You'll enjoy the scenic beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains, indulge in retail therapy at the famous Americana at Brand, and soak in the melting pot of diverse cuisines from the city's wide array of restaurants. All in all, if you fancy a lively neighborhood vibe sprinkled with quiet, peaceful pockets of green, Glendale, CA will make you feel right at home!


What Is Glendale Famous For?

Forest Lawn Memorial Park

One of the most well-known cemeteries in the world, The Forest Lawn Memorial Park is more than just a resting place. It is also a staple destination in Glendale, housing three of America's finest display of art -- the three beautiful chapels of The Wee Kirk o'the Heather, The Church of the Recessional, and The Great Mausoleum.

The Brand Library & Art Center

This public library turned art center is a hub for artists and art enthusiasts. Housed in the mansion of Leslie C. Brand, one of Glendale's pioneers, the library features a collection of over 110,000 items dedicated to fine arts and music, a dedicated gallery space for local and international artists, and a recital hall that hosts music and dance performances throughout the year.

Alex Theatre

You can't visit Glendale without checking out the historic Alex Theatre! Established in 1925, this theatre offers a wide range of performances including musicals, dance performances, comedy shows, and film screenings. Its Art Deco architecture also makes it a must-see.

Glendale Galleria Shopping Center

Shopaholics unite! The Glendale Galleria is one of Southern California's largest and most popular shopping destinations. With a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and even a kids' playground, this shopping center is sure to satisfy all your shopping needs and more.

Capital building of Glendale, CA in artistic rendering

Overview of Tax Rates

Property Tax

In Glendale, CA as of 2023, the general property tax rate is 1% of the assessed value of the property, which is average as compared to the other parts of the US where property tax rates range from 0.2% to 2.4%.

Sales Tax

The sales tax rate in Glendale, is 9.5% as of 2023, which is high compared to the national median of 7.12%. However, it is important to note that sales tax can vary depending on the type of purchase.

Income Tax

As for the income tax, California has a progressive tax rate ranging from 1% to 13.3%, depending on income levels. While residents of Glendale abide by this state tax, they do pay an additional city tax making it one of the states with the highest income tax rate when compared to other US states where the average state-level income tax rate ranges from 0 to 9.09%.


Housing Market

Compared to broader US housing markets, Glendale, CA presents unique opportunities and challenges. Over the past year, it has experienced housing price increases surpassing national averages, with median home prices around $989,000, due to limited inventory and high demand. The rental market fluctuates, providing a diverse range of options with a median rent of approximately $2,495. Increased development and the city's strategic location can offer investors long-term growth potential. Potential buyers or renters should note Glendale's higher cost of living and the robust competition that characterizes its housing market.


Cost of Living

The cost of living in Glendale, CA is relatively high compared to other cities in the United States. The prime factor driving this expense is the high cost of housing. Additionally, the costs of goods and services, transportation, health, groceries, utilities, and miscellaneous expenses also contribute to this situation. Despite the high costs, Glendale's quality of living, excellent educational facilities, and vibrant cultural scenes make it an attractive city. Nevertheless, it is crucial to have a well-thought-out financial plan when considering moving to Glendale, CA.


Weather & Natural Disasters

Located in Southern California, Glendale enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average high temperatures peak in July and August in the low 90s (degF), while winter lows in December and January hover around the mid-40s (degF). The city, like the rest of Los Angeles County, benefits from an abundance of sunshine, averaging close to 300 sunny days a year. As for natural disasters, Glendale is prone to wildfires due to its dry, warm climate in the summer and fall. Moreover, it's located in a region known for seismic activity, hence earthquakes are a common risk. Nonetheless, Glendale remains an attractive location due to its comfortable climate and abundant sunshine.

Typical weather in Glendale, CA

Economy & Job Market

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Health Care and Social Assistance

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

Information

Finance and Insurance

Retail Trade

Fondly known as \'The Jewel City\', Glendale, CA is a trove of job opportunities. Historically, Glendale\'s economy was largely anchored by the manufacturing sector, particularly in aerospace and automobiles, with companies like Lockheed Martin having a predominant presence during the mid-20th century. However, like diamonds to silver, the economy has since taken a pivot. As of today, health care and social assistance, professional, scientific, and technical services, information, finance and insurance, and retail trade top the list. Even entertainment industry is not a far cry with major TV studios residing in close proximity.

If you are planning to explore job opportunities in the \'Jewel City\', equip yourself with a geode hammer, because Glendale is a smorgasbord of growing employment opportunities just waiting to be cracked open! As per the latest data, the unemployment rate here lies below the national average, hinting at a vibrant and thriving job market. While opportunities abound across various sectors, positions in health care, professional services and finance tend to have higher demand. So whether you\'re a doctor, tech whiz, financial advisor, or aspiring shop owner, Glendale might just be the golden ticket you\'re looking for!

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Traffic and Transportation

Hey there, future Glendalians! Fasten your seatbelts as we dive into the journey of traffic and transportation in Glendale, CA. A city that hustles and bustles, the average commute time here is around 25.9 minutes, slightly above the US average but hey - more time to enjoy that podcast, right? City slickers and environmental conservationists alike can rejoice with several wallet-friendly public transportation options including the Glendale Beeline buses, and the Metrolink train service.

Feeling jet-set? Use the Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, less than 10 miles away or the grander LAX which is about 30 miles away. With direct flights and connections globally, it's your one-stop ticket to anywhere your heart desires! So whether you're a road warrior or sky explorer, Glendale's got you moving!

What is the traffic like in Glendale, CA?

Best Neighborhoods in Glendale

1. Adams Hill

Adams Hill is a hidden gem tucked between freeways and hills at Glendale's southern side. It is one of those picturesque neighborhoods you'd expect to find in a movie, with tree-lined streets curling through hilly terrains, consisting of intricate Spanish and mid-century style homes. For those who love a quiet blend of natural beauty and architectural charm, this is your place. Plus, Adams Hill is within walking distance to restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques lined up along Glendale Blvd--so you'll never be too far from the action.

2. Rossmoyne

Next stop, we have Rossmoyne. Arguably one of the most historical neighborhoods in Glendale, Rossmoyne spells elegance and class. It's characterized by spectacular Spanish Colonial and Tudor Revival homes, complete with immaculate lawns and well-groomed hedges. Perhaps the most eye-catching aspect is the lush, verdant nature surrounding the area, including the famous Verdugo Mountain. Want some weekend fun? The nearby, heartwarming Montrose Shopping Park, teeming with shops, cafes, and farmers markets, has you covered!

3. Montecito Park

Located in the northeastern part of the city, Montecito Park is the epitome of suburban tranquility combined with city convenience. This intimate neighborhood flaunts a variety of homes reflecting multiple architectural styles - from traditional to contemporary. Additionally, it's home to multiple parks and open green spaces, perfect for picnics, biking, or walking the dog. With excellent schools and ease of access to downtown Glendale and surrounding commercial areas, it's a popular choice among families.

4. Downtown Glendale

Think vibrant street life that's buzzing with excitement, and you have Downtown Glendale. It's considered Glendale's urban heart, a hub of entertainment, dining, and shopping. From the renowned Americana at Brand to the historic Alex Theatre, there's always something happening here. Don't be fooled by the hustle and bustle, though; there are quieter residential corners featuring modern condominiums and apartments. A bonus? Its walkability score is through the roof, making grocery runs or cafe visits an enjoyable stroll away.

5. Chevy Chase Canyon

If you're looking for a neighborhood that offers peace and solitude without compromising on scenic beauty, look no further than Chevy Chase Canyon. Nestled amidst chattering trees and striking canyons, it's the city's slice of wilderness. Homes here are an eclectic mix of quaint cottages and grand estates, all boasting splendid views. It's a hiker's paradise too, thanks to the many trails in the nearby Wilderness Park. For the golfer, the neighborhood's signature golf course is a cherry atop this serene sundae.

There you have it, a peep into five of the best neighborhoods in Glendale, CA. Reflect upon your lifestyle and preferences before you pick a neighborhood. Rest assured, whether you're a solitude-loving introvert, a family-oriented individual, or a fun-loving extrovert, Glendale has a neighborhood that calls out to you. Welcome home!

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Things to Do

Welcome to Glendale, California - A bustling town that promises unlimited fun and excitement. No need to pack your week with high-strung Los Angeles itineraries. Settle down and enjoy the simple pleasures Glendale, locally known as 'The Jewel City', has to offer. Here's your ultimate list to the top 7 things to do in Glendale!

1. Shop Till You Drop at Americana at Brand

This open-air shopping center is a must-visit. Boasting some of the best retail stores, fusion cuisine, and twinkling lights that add a festive air, Americana at Brand proves to be more than just a shopping trip. The live music and water fountain shows create a magical atmosphere you're sure to enjoy.

2. Indulge in a Movie Night at Alex Theatre

For all the movie and history buffs out there, the Alex Theatre is a treat. With its art deco design and historical significance in the entertainment scene of the 1920s, this theatre is not just for catching vintage flicks. It's also a place where you can attend musicals, ballets, and symphony concerts.

3. Get in Touch with Nature at Deukmejian Wilderness Park

There is nothing as tranquil as hiking in Deukmejian Wilderness Park. Breathe in the crisp, fresh air while you hike through the beautiful trails. The views of the canyon and hills are nothing short of breathtaking, making this one of the most serene experiences you can have in Glendale.

4. Pay Homage at Forest Lawn Memorial Park

It might sound strange, but trust us, Forest Lawn Memorial Park is well worth a visit. This celebrity cemetery is an art-filled sanctuary that houses the remains of several notable figures like Walt Disney and Michael Jackson. Sprawling over 300 acres, this place offers extraordinary panoramic views, artistic showcases, and historic exhibits.

5. Traverse through The Neon Cruise

This one's a hidden gem not known to many. The Neon Cruise is arranged by the Museum of Neon Art. The museum has a collection of neon signs and offers nighttime bus tours that celebrate the luminous history of LA's neon heritage. You will love this radiant and enthralling journey through the 'City of Angels'.

6. Devour Delicious Pastries at Porto's Bakery

Porto's Bakery is a local obsession. It serves mouth-watering traditional Cuban pastries and cakes. Don't forget to try the Guava Cheese Strudel and their famous Potato Balls - these are local favorites that have earned Porto's a place in the hearts of residents and visitors alike.

7. Discover Scholl Canyon Hike and Gnome Homes

This might be Glendale's best-kept secret. The Scholl Canyon Hike to Gnome Homes is an adorable discovery. Hikers and walkers can spot tiny gnome homes carved into tree trunks, staircases made of rocks, and small figures all over the trail. This delightful surprise takes the hiking experience to a whole new level.

And, we've reached the end of this whimsical journey encapsulating the very best of Glendale. Keep this list close, and rest assured, you'll never run out of things to do in this charming city. So, plug into the laid-back rhythm of 'The Jewel City' and let the fun begin in Glendale. Welcome to your new home!

Things to do in Glendale, CA?

Find Movers for Your Glendale Relocation

As you prepare for your move to vibrant Glendale, consider easing your transition with the expert help of a trusted moving company. Great Guys Moving simplifies your search by connecting you with premier movers recognized not only for their high-quality service but also for their affordable rates. Submitting your move details will promptly commence your personalized quotes from legally licensed and insured moving companies equipped for your relocation needs. For a seamless move to Glendale that caters to both your service expectations and budget, don't hesitate to request your free moving quote through Great Guys Moving today.

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