Living in Torrance, CA in 2024

Torrance sits in sunny southern California, blending urban ease with quiet suburban spots. It’s near the less crowded Pacific beaches. This city is perfect for those who want a mix of city fun and peaceful living. Torrance is rated high for its schools, diversity, nightlife, and family-friendly. It’s also great for outdoor activities. Torrance is known for being safe and great for families. But, some areas have seen more car thefts lately. Still, the city is known for its strong community, nature access, and cultural mix. It welcomes those who love the city and those who prefer the suburbs. Torrance might just be the spot that meets all your California living needs. Whether you’re considering a move to Torrance or simply curious about what this city offers, this detailed guide will explore everything you need to know about living in Torrance, CA.

Living In Torrance, CA

Torrance is in Southern California. It combines peaceful suburbs with city life. This city is known for its mix of homes and its friendly community feel.

An Overview of Suburban Living

Torrance has areas for homes and shops living together well. Many people own their homes, which brings a stable feeling. You can find various homes here, from houses to condos, to fit your needs.

Peaceful Neighborhoods and Community Spirit

Torrance is loved for its calm neighborhoods. People enjoy walking, biking, and attending events together. The city maintains lovely parks and green areas, perfect for families and anyone wanting a quiet life.

Enjoy quiet living close to everything you need in Torrance. It’s great for young workers, families, or those retiring. With a great mix of homes and business spots and a lively community, it’s a top pick in Southern California.

Public Schools and Education

Torrance, a bright California city, shines because of its excellent public schools, which win top marks. Many think the local education system is just incredible. This is thanks to the hard work of the teachers and staff, who make sure every student gets the best education in a caring place.

The latest news on test scores in Torrance is good. The schools here got an average of 61%, which is way higher than the national number. In these schools, there’s one teacher for every 21 students, which means every student can get special help. Torrance has 33 public schools, 26 private schools, and nine colleges, which gives families a lot of choices when looking for a good education.

Torrance’s focus on learning shows in what its people achieve. 93.2% of Torrance residents finish 8th grade. 92.5% get their high school diplomas. And 47.1% have college degrees. For comparison, nearby Manhattan Beach, with 35,064 people, has an 83% test score average.

Location	Population	Average School Test Score
Torrance, CA	144,430	61%
Manhattan Beach, CA	35,064	83%
Thornton, CO	144,186	32%

Torrance’s elementary, middle, and high schools stand out. They make the city famous for its top-quality learning. Families coming to Torrance know their kids will get the best start, which sets them on the path to a successful future.

Crime and Safety Considerations

Torrance, CA, is often seen as a safe place to live. However, there are worries about crime and safety, and people should be aware of these concerns.

The city’s crime rate is 29 crimes for every 1,000 residents. This is higher than the national average. You have a 1 in 34 chance of being a crime victim. It’s more risky in Torrance than in 80% of California’s areas of the same size.

In detail, violent crime affects 3 out of every 1,000 people. The chance of this happening to you is 1 in 369. Yet, property crime is more common. It happens to 27 out of every 1,000 people. There’s a 1 in 37 chance you could be a victim. Car theft is a big issue, too. The odds of your car being stolen stand at 1 in 191.

Certain areas are seeing more car theft and other illegal actions.

Torrance gets a “C+” for being pretty safe overall
The crime rate is higher than the national average
You have a 1 in 34 risk of being a crime victim
This is higher than most places in California
3 out of 1,000 residents face violent crime
27 out of 1,000 deal with property crime
Your car may be more at risk here than in other places
There’s not enough police, causing more crime lately

Torrance is generally safe. But the high crime stats and safety worries are real. Anyone thinking of moving should think this through. Know the risks and be careful. Then, you can enjoy living in Torrance without as many worries.

Housing and Real Estate Market

Torrance, CA, is a lovely place for families. Its real estate market is booming. Yet, homes here cost a lot more than the U.S. average. The median home value is about $962,300.

The cost of renting here is also high, at $2,437 a month. This makes it hard for some folks to live here, especially near the beach.

Affordable Housing Options

Even though Torrance is expensive, there are affordable areas. You might find smaller homes, townhouses, or condos for less. Just don’t expect beachfront views.

For more options, consider Walteria, Anza, and Lincoln. These places have great schools and are family-friendly.

Home Values and Rental Rates

The average house in Torrance costs almost $1.25 million. Condos are about $999,000, and townhouses run at $814,500. Houses here sell fast, usually within a day, which shows their popularity.

Living in Torrance can be tough on those cutting costs. Yet, there’s a wide range of homes to consider. Think hard about your needs when looking for a place here.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Torrance, a suburb in Los Angeles, is full of fun. It has many bars and restaurants for people to enjoy. The city is known for its excellent local spots, although it’s not as big as Los Angeles.

Torrance has top places for a fun night out. The View Music Bar is a hit, with cool lights and sounds. It plays many types of music. The Southland Bar is also great. It is known for its lovely look, excellent service, and different kinds of music each night.

Looking for a place to dance? Check out the Rock It Nightclub. It has DJs and live music. It’s open Wednesday through Saturday and Sundays. They have a dancing and bottle service available.

There are many dining spots in Torrance. You can find sushi, cafes, and more from around the world. The Del Amo Mall is a must-visit. It has shops, movie theaters, and lots of food choices.

Torrance’s art scene is also lively. You can visit galleries or see live music. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a quiet night. Torrance has something for everyone to enjoy.

In the end, Torrance offers a mix of small and big fun spots. No matter what you’re up for, you’ll find it in Torrance. It’s a great place to enjoy your evening.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Torrance, California, is known for welcoming families. Its many parks and places to play bring everyone together with fun events all year.

Torrance keeps families in mind with its schools and safety. This makes it a great spot to raise kids. Families love living here because of these essential things.

Torrance has over 400 restaurants where you can try different foods.
The Del Amo Fashion Center is a big mall with lots of shops and places to have fun together.
Torrance also has 15 hotels for people visiting, located nicely for easy travel.
The Western Museum of Flight is a great place to learn about planes. It’s fun for both kids and adults.

Torrance is big on green spaces and natural areas. The South Coast Botanic Garden and Madrona Marsh are two unique places. They’re home to many plants and birds for nature lovers.

Attraction	Key Highlights
Annenberg Treehouse at Wilson Park	A 2,500-square-foot wooden structure for fun and play. It’s made for everyone, no matter their abilities.
Torrance Beach	This beach is perfect for families because it’s not too crowded. There’s lots of room for sports and water activities.
Del Amo Fashion Center	On its south end, it has a play area for little children. This mall is an excellent place for family fun.

Torrance works hard to be family-friendly. It offers many parks, events, and things to do for people of all ages. The excellent schools and safe neighborhoods make it a top choice for living and raising a family.

Diversity and Cultural Richness

Torrance, California, is a lively city known for welcoming everyone. It is home to over 147,000 people. The community shines with its mix of Asian and white cultures. Torrance has earned an “A+” for its outstanding diversity and inclusivity.

This city shows off its diverse heritage through fun events and festivals. People can enjoy a mix of Asian and Pacific Islander cultures. Highlights include the Torrance Cherry Blossom Cultural Festival and the Japanese Cultural Festival. These events offer traditional music, dancing, food, and arts, reflecting Torrance’s unique identity.

The city’s mix of cultures isn’t just seen at festivals. Its business scene thrives with various industries. From making things to high-tech, there’s something for everyone. This mix attracts both businesses and skilled workers, making Torrance teeming with cultures.

Although Asian and white groups make up a big part of Torrance, there’s also a mix of African American, Hispanic, and multiracial residents. Some feel the need for more diversity to avoid isolation. Yet, most agree that Torrance is still a place that values everyone’s contribution.

You can explore the unique eateries, join colorful festivals, or enjoy the calm neighborhoods. Torrance’s diverse and rich culture is always around you. It’s where people blend their heritage to make a welcoming community for all.

Employment Opportunities

Torrance, California, has many jobs in different areas. It’s a great place for anyone looking for work. Its good location and helpful business policies have attracted many big companies, making finding a job here a good choice.

Major Industries and Job Market

Torrance is known for aerospace, healthcare, making things, and tech. These places provide many job opportunities. The average income here is pretty high, showing the strong job market.

More jobs are always coming to Torrance. The city adds jobs faster than most places. This is because Torrance supports businesses, invests in the city, and wants the best companies to come. These efforts help professionals of all kinds find work and grow their careers.

Industry	Employment Rates	Job Growth Trends
Aerospace	18.2%	6.7% (last five years)
Healthcare	14.6%	8.4% (last five years)
Manufacturing	12.9%	3.2% (last five years)
Technology	10.4%	11.3% (last five years)

There are always new jobs in Torrance. It’s exciting for people with any kind of work experience. The city’s strong economy and many industries mean there are lots of ways to build a career here.

Weather and Outdoor Activities

Torrance is along the beautiful Southern California coast. Its climate is wonderful for outdoor fun all year. Over 300 sunny days and temperatures rarely below 60°F mean there’s always a reason to be outside.

Torrance Beach is a perfect gem with 1.5 miles of sand. It’s peaceful, with plenty of room for swims and walks. Cyclists love the 22-mile Strand Bike Trail from Torrance Beach to Will Rogers State Beach in Malibu.

Torrance also treasures its 33 parks and nickname, “City of Trees.” These green spots are great for picnics or relaxed walks. The Madrona Marsh Nature Preserve and Pine Wind Japanese Garden are especially lovely.

Torrance’s lively spirit is seen in its outdoor events and festivals. The city has the Annual Torrance Beer Run and the Cherry Blossom Festival. There are also places to learn, like the Western Museum of Flight, and play, like the Dig It-themed play space.

Torrance is a top pick for coastal life with its great weather, outdoor activities, and community events. It’s a mix of natural beauty, cultural fun, and new things to do every day.

Exploring Torrance’s Outdoor Offerings

Torrance Beach: A 1.5-mile stretch of uncrowded coastline great for fun in the sun
Strand Bike Trail: A 22-mile cycling path that leads from Torrance Beach to Malibu
Madrona Marsh Nature Preserve: An urban wetland full of wildlife and perfect for bird-watching
Pine Wind Japanese Garden: A beautiful garden that shows Japanese culture
Torrance Summer Nights: Free outdoor events like concerts and movies in summer
Torrance Antique Street Faire: A big monthly market with over 200 vendors

Embracing Torrance’s Active Lifestyle

Participate in the Annual Torrance Beer Run, celebrating the city’s vibrant craft beer scene.
Attend the Cherry Blossom Festival at Torino Plaza, showcasing Torrance’s cultural diversity.
Explore the aviation history at the Western Museum of Flight
Engage in interactive play at the Dig It indoor construction-themed play space
Attend live performances and events at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center
Discover the local history at the Torrance Historical Society

Cost of Living Considerations

Torrance, California, offers a high quality of life. However, suburban living might be costly. Recent data gives Torrance a “C—” for the cost of living, which is 89% higher than the national average.

The city’s high home prices and rent increase its living costs. The median home price is $962,300, more than triple the national figure. Renting can also be expensive. The $2,132 median rent is 90% higher than the country’s average. Finding affordable housing, especially near the beach, might be hard.

Metric	Torrance, CA	National Average	Difference
Median Home Price	$962,300	$223,800	331.4% higher
Median Rent	$2,132	$1,124	90% higher
Grocery Costs	12.2% higher	N/A	N/A
Transportation	24.3% higher	N/A	N/A

While Torrance’s living costs are high, so is the quality of life. Its quiet areas, great schools, and job market appeal to many. Those who can afford it find the city worth it. However, the big price tag is a key concern for many people.

Thinking about moving to Torrance? Do your homework on homes and rents. Check your budget. Think about the cost versus what the city offers. With the right planning and insights, Torrance can be a great home.

Health and Fitness Amenities

Torrance, California, is known for great health and fitness. It’s perfect for people who love staying active. The city has many gyms, parks, and more for staying fit.

The parks are amazing, with trails and sports areas. They make it easy for people to exercise outdoors. You can enjoy walks in beautiful parks or coastal hikes.

There are also many top-notch gyms in Torrance. Places like 24 Hour Fitness and Anytime Fitness are very popular. They have modern equipment and offer fitness classes.

The Torrance-South Bay Family YMCA is a favorite for many. It has an indoor track, pools, and even a climbing wall. The YMCA has special classes for different groups, like seniors and families.

Abundant parks and outdoor recreational areas for hiking, walking, and sports
Variety of top-rated gyms and fitness centers, including 24 Hour Fitness, Anytime Fitness, and Equinox
Torrance-South Bay Family YMCA, a comprehensive community wellness center with a wide range of amenities and programs
Specialized fitness and health services, such as personal training, group classes, and therapeutic offerings
Convenient access to healthy dining options, including nutritious lunches and home-delivery meals for seniors

Torrance focuses on a healthy lifestyle and is a top spot for fitness and wellness. The city has what you need to be healthy and active regardless of your fitness level.

Transportation and Commuting

Torrance, California, is a place where getting around is key. With its suburban feel and quiet streets, how you get to places changes. It all depends on where you live and how you like to travel.

Public Transit Options

Torrance has its way of getting around, which is called Torrance Transit. It connects to the Los Angeles Metro, letting people travel conveniently and affordably. Bus tickets cost about $1, reaching spots like the University of Southern California (USC) takes about 55 minutes.

Walkability and Bike-Friendliness

Walking and biking are easy and enjoyable in Torrance. The city has paths and roads perfect for families to stroll or ride bikes safely. It’s a great way to see the town and feel part of the community.

But not every place in Torrance is the same for walking and biking. Some spots might need a car for errands or heading to work. Still, the city works hard to offer good ways to move around, no matter how you like to travel.

Commute Mode	Torrance	Lakewood
Car (alone)	75.0%	78.8%
Carpool	5.9%	9.0%
Mass Transit	1.4%	1.2%
Bike	0.5%	0.4%
Walk	1.4%	1.2%
Work from Home	13.5%	8.1%

The table shows how people in Torrance and Lakewood get to work. More use their cars, but Torrance has many who work from home. This shows a variety in how people in the city handle their morning routine.

Is Torrance a walkable city?

Living in Torrance, CA, offers different experiences depending on what you prefer. Some people like living in a city where you can walk to most places you need to go. Torrance has a Walk Score of 70, meaning it’s pretty good for walking around. It also has a Bike Score of 57 if you enjoy biking. Public transportation like buses (Metro – Los Angeles and LADOT) is available, but it’s not as extensive as other areas, with 37 Metro stops and 16 LADOT stops in Torrance.

For those with electric vehicles, Torrance is convenient with 44 charging locations, including different types of chargers like level-1, level-2, and fast charging points. And if you need to travel by plane, Los Angeles International Airport is the nearest option.

Choosing where to live often depends on personal preference—whether you prioritize walkability, access to nature, or the convenience of driving to your favorite spots. Torrance offers a mix of these options for residents to consider.

Conclusion

Living in Torrance, CA, combines city life with peaceful surroundings. The area has a tight-knit feel and many opportunities to enjoy nature. It is also rich in different cultures. Pros include great schools, places to stay healthy, and a welcoming vibe.

But it’s not all perfect. Living expenses, such as home prices and safety worries, might make some people think twice. Torrance is great for young pros and families who seek a calm, close-knit life in sunny Southern California. Yet, it might not be for everyone because of the money and safety issues. Deciding to move here depends on what matters most and what you can spend.

So, when considering making Torrance your home, consider its good and not-so-good sides. Think about what kind of life you want. This will help you determine whether Torrance meets your needs.

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FAQs about Living In Torrance, CA

What are the pros and cons of living in Torrance?

Torrance boasts a pleasant climate, stunning beach views, and a low crime rate, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Additionally, the city offers excellent schools and a strong sense of community. On the downside, the cost of living in Torrance can be higher than the national average, and the traffic can be hectic during peak hours. However, many residents find that the benefits of living in Torrance outweigh these minor inconveniences.

How is the job market in Torrance?

Torrance is home to several major employers, including Honda, ExxonMobil, and Toyota, offering many job opportunities. The city has a thriving business environment and is known for its strong manufacturing and healthcare industries. The median household income in Torrance is higher than the national average, making it an attractive place for career growth.

Is Torrance safe?

Safety is a top concern for anyone considering a move to a new city. Torrance prides itself on its low crime rates and effective law enforcement. The city consistently ranks as one of the safest in Southern California, providing residents with peace of mind and a secure living environment.

Are there recreational activities in Torrance?

Living in Torrance means being surrounded by a wealth of recreational opportunities. The city has numerous parks, hiking trails, and golf courses for outdoor enthusiasts. Torrance Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Additionally, the city hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year, promoting an active and vibrant lifestyle.

What are the housing options in Torrance?

Torrance offers diverse housing options to suit different needs and budgets. There is something for everyone, from single-family homes in family-friendly neighborhoods to condominiums and apartments near the beach. However, it’s important to note that the cost of real estate in Torrance can be relatively higher than in some other California cities.

How are the schools in Torrance?

Torrance is known for its excellent public and private schools. The city’s school district consistently ranks among the top in the state, providing students with a quality education. From highly-rated elementary schools to renowned high schools, families can feel confident in the educational opportunities available in Torrance.

What is the community like in Torrance?

Torrance is a diverse and inclusive community that prides itself on its rich cultural tapestry. With various cultural events and festivals, residents have ample opportunities to celebrate different traditions and heritage. Additionally, the city offers numerous community organizations and recreational activities, fostering a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie.

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