In the northernmost part of Los Angeles County, bordered by towering San Gabriel Mountains to the south, is an area that feels more like the desert than the City of Angels: West Palmdale. Located in the Antelope Valley, West Palmdale offers its residents large, affordable homes, many outdoor recreational opportunities and lovely mountain views.

Along the residential streets, you’ll find mostly Contemporary homes with Spanish-style influences, like barrel tile roofs and stucco facades in warm colors. Some homes buck that style and feature brick or clapboard exteriors with shingle roofs, but nearly all offer petite front yards with landscaping and back yards roomy enough for a pool or large patio. Short driveways lead to multi-car garages, and the wide streets provide additional room for parking if needed. Sidewalks are abundant, offering an ideal place for an afternoon stroll. Prices range from $405,000 for 1,900 square feet to $1.2 million for 5,200 square feet. If you’re looking for a home with a bit less upkeep, you can find condos and town houses with prices ranging from $360,000 for 1,200 square feet to $525,000 for 2,000 square feet.

Kids in the area attending public school may begin their education at Rancho Vista Elementary, then head to Hillview Middle and Quartz Hill High. Rancho Vista and Hillview are both part of the Westside Union School District, and Quartz Hill is part of the Antelope Valley Union High School District. Quartz Hill also serves approximately 3,000 students from ninth to twelfth grade and rates an A- on Niche.

Residents have several parks to choose from when they want to get outside in the fresh air. Among them is Marie Kerr Park, located off 30th Street, the largest park in the area and full of amenities. Spend an afternoon shooting hoops at the basketball courts or cheer on a local Little League team at the ballfield. There's a playground for younger kids, complete with a tot lot, while older kids can spend time at the skate park. On especially hot days, you can cool off at the pool or spend some time inside at the recreation center, which offers an indoor basketball court and organized activities for kids ages six to 14. Marie Kerr Park is also home to the Palmdale Amphitheater, which hosts family movie nights and a concert series each summer. Golf and tennis enthusiasts may consider joining the Antelope Valley Country Club, which offers an 18-hole golf course designed by William F. Bell and five tennis courts.

You won't have to travel far for shopping; West Palmdale has multiple shopping centers where you can cross everything off your weekly to-do list. The largest retail hub is near the intersection of 10th Street Northwest and Rancho Vista Boulevard. Pick up daily essentials at Target, groceries at Trader Joe’s and home improvement supplies at Home Depot. Nearby, you’ll find the Antelope Valley Mall, where you can shop at popular retailers like H&M and Dick’s Sporting Goods. When you’re in the mood to dine out, you’ll have your pick from dozens of local and small chain restaurants, including Los Originales Bar and Grill, which serves traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, fajitas and burritos, as well as a full cocktail menu. Las Originales’ Palmdale location also offers the Las OG Lounge Bar if you want to dance the night away after dinner. This 21+ hotspot features a live DJ, full bar, VIP booths and bottle service.

For your commute, you’ll have easy access to SR-14, which runs through the area and will connect you to I-5 to the south. From there, the rest of LA County will be at your fingertips.