Los Angeles neighborhood guide
South Whittier
Vertical tick marks the LA neighborhood median.
Rent in South Whittier
Rent control: South Whittierhas 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.
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South Whittier is an unincorporated community in Los Angeles County, located just south of the city of Whittier in the San Gabriel Valley. With a population of about 56,400, it's a established residential area offering a quieter alternative to more central parts of the region.
The community is primarily car-dependent, with limited public transit options and moderate density. Most daily errands can be handled locally, though you'll want reliable transportation for work and activities outside the immediate area.
Living here
Day-to-day life in South Whittier revolves around car travel. While you can walk to some nearby shops and restaurants, most residents drive for regular errands. The area has several grocery options including El Super, Food 4 Less, and Stater Bros. within a short drive, plus casual dining spots like El Pollo Loco and Wingstop. Parks like Amelia Mayberry Park provide neighborhood recreation space.
Traffic is moderate and manageable compared to much of Southern California, ranking below the state median. Air quality is better than average for the region, with diesel PM exposure below the California median. You won't have easy access to Metro rail or bus transit, so owning a car is strongly recommended.
Who it's for
South Whittier works best for renters who need a quiet, suburban setting and have reliable transportation. It suits families and people working in the San Gabriel Valley or nearby areas who prioritize a car-friendly environment and don't depend on public transit. If you need walkable neighborhoods or frequent rail access, you'll want to look elsewhere in the county.
Environment & livability
Air quality: below the California median for diesel PM exposure.
Air quality here is better than average for the state. Worth noting if you have respiratory sensitivities.
Traffic exposure: moderate traffic exposure, below the state median.
Traffic proximity here is better than average for California.
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: walkable for some errands, car useful for others.
A mixed walkability area. Good for quick trips on foot, but some destinations will require driving or transit.
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 South Whittier
Population
53,437
Renters
31%
of households rent
Median age
35
Median income
$99k
per household
Census ACS 5-year estimates.
Around South Whittier
El Super · Food 4 Less · Stater Bros. · Walmart Supercenter
Starbucks
Wingstop · El Pollo Loco · Five Guys · Jamba
Amelia Mayberry Park · Adventure Park
24 Hour Fitness Sport · Planet Fitness
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Similar neighborhoods
South Monrovia Island
#157 of 346 for walkability
South San Gabriel
#244 of 346 for walkability
East Whittier
#216 of 346 for walkability
Valley Glen
~$2,488/mo
#123 of 346 for walkability
Next to South Whittier
Finding a place in South Whittier
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Frequently asked questions
Is South Whittier walkable?+
South Whittier is walkable for some errands, but a car is useful for many daily tasks. You'll find coffee shops, restaurants, and grocery stores within a short walk or drive, but most residents drive for routine shopping and activities.
How is transit access?+
Transit is minimal in South Whittier, with no nearby Metro rail stations. A car is strongly recommended, as public bus service is limited and unreliable for most commuting needs.
What's the air quality like?+
Air quality in South Whittier is below the California median for diesel PM exposure, meaning it's cleaner than average for the region. This is one of the area's advantages for those sensitive to air pollution.
What's traffic like?+
Traffic exposure is moderate and ranks below the state median, so you'll face less congestion than many other Southern California communities. Most daily commutes are manageable, though rush hour on main thoroughfares can slow you down.
What is the average rent in South Whittier?+
Current residents of South Whittier pay a median rent of about $1,886 per month (Census ACS). Asking rents for new leases typically run higher.
How is the air quality in South Whittier?+
South Whittier has below the California median for diesel PM exposure, based on CalEnviroScreen 4.0 diesel particulate data (percentile 46 of 100, lower is cleaner).
Which LA neighborhoods are similar to South Whittier?+
Based on walkability, rent levels, amenities, and environment, the most similar neighborhoods to South Whittier are South Monrovia Island, South San Gabriel, East Whittier and Valley Glen.