Los Angeles neighborhood guide
Montebello
Vertical tick marks the LA neighborhood median.
Rent in Montebello
Rent control: Montebellohas no local rent-stabilization ordinance we track, so California's statewide cap (AB 1482) is the main protection. It limits annual increases on most buildings at least 15 years old, with exemptions. Verify a building's status before signing.
General information, not legal advice.
How Montebello scores for you
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Montebello is a city in Los Angeles County, located about 8 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the Gateway Cities area. It sits between East Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley, offering a quieter, more residential character than inner-city neighborhoods while remaining within reach of the broader region.
The city is car-dependent and suburban in feel. Most errands require a vehicle, and public transit options are limited. Air quality is a significant consideration here, as Montebello ranks in the top quartile statewide for diesel PM exposure, and traffic volumes are above average for the region.
Living here
Day-to-day life in Montebello centers on driving. You'll find grocery stores like Ralphs, Vons, and Albertsons within the city, along with restaurants ranging from taquerias to chain fast food, and a handful of coffee shops. Parks including Rio Hondo Park and Grant Rea Park offer green space for recreation. However, getting anywhere beyond immediate errands typically requires a car.
The city is quieter and less dense than many LA County neighborhoods, which appeals to renters seeking a calmer environment. The tradeoff is that the suburban sprawl means longer trips for work, entertainment, or services not found locally. Air quality and traffic are concerns worth weighing against the residential peace the area offers.
Who it's for
Montebello suits renters who prioritize affordability and a quieter, family-oriented residential setting over walkability and transit access. It works well for those with reliable cars, flexible work arrangements, or jobs in the San Gabriel Valley that put this location on a reasonable commute path. It is not ideal for renters without a vehicle or those seeking an urban, walkable lifestyle.
Environment & livability
Air quality: moderate diesel PM exposure for California.
Above the state median, linked to mild long-term respiratory risk in some studies. Worth considering for sensitive households.
Traffic exposure: above-average traffic corridor exposure.
Higher traffic proximity correlates with elevated noise, diesel emissions, and reduced pedestrian comfort on nearby streets.
Tree cover: very limited tree cover, predominantly concrete.
Low canopy areas tend to run hotter and feel more exposed. Research links tree cover to lower ambient temperatures and improved pedestrian comfort.
Walkability: most errands require a car or transit.
Lower intersection density and fewer destinations within walking distance, typical of suburban LA/OC areas.
Transit: minimal transit access, car strongly recommended.
Very infrequent or no meaningful transit nearby. Car dependency is high in this area.
Environmental data from CalEnviroScreen 4.0 and the EPA Smart Location Database. Informational only, not professional advice for a housing decision.
Who lives in Montebello
Population
55,962
Renters
57%
of households rent
Median age
39
Median income
$76k
per household
Census ACS 5-year estimates.
Around Montebello
Ralphs · Vons · Albertsons · Superior Grocers
Marin Cafe · Starbucks · 7 Leaves Cafe
Taqueria Don Lencho #1 · In-N-Out Burger · Tomato Korean Restaurant · Carl's Jr.
Rio Hondo Park · Grant Rea Park · Chet Holifield Park · Taylor Ranch
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Finding a place in Montebello
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a car to live in Montebello?+
Yes. Montebello ranks 262nd of 319 areas in walkability, meaning most errands require a car or transit. Public transit is minimal, with no rail stations nearby. A vehicle is strongly recommended.
What is the air quality like in Montebello?+
Air quality is a significant concern. Montebello ranks 272nd of 318 areas for air quality and ranks in the top quartile statewide for diesel PM exposure, making it one of the more polluted areas in the region.
What amenities are within walking distance?+
Within a short walk you'll find about 2-3 restaurants, 1-2 grocery stores, and 1 coffee shop on average, though many errands will still require a car. Parks are scattered throughout the city for recreation.
How far is Montebello from downtown Los Angeles?+
Montebello is about 8 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, a trip that typically takes 20-40 minutes by car depending on traffic conditions.
Is Montebello walkable?+
Montebello ranks #292 of 346 LA neighborhoods for walkability. In practice, most errands require a car or transit.
What is the average rent in Montebello?+
Current residents of Montebello pay a median rent of about $1,633 per month (Census ACS). Asking rents for new leases typically run higher.
How is the air quality in Montebello?+
Montebello has moderate diesel PM exposure for California, based on CalEnviroScreen 4.0 diesel particulate data (percentile 66 of 100, lower is cleaner).
Which LA neighborhoods are similar to Montebello?+
Based on walkability, rent levels, amenities, and environment, the most similar neighborhoods to Montebello are Signal Hill, Azusa, South El Monte and Willowbrook.