Dominguez Hills Village, Carson, CA

Dominguez Hills Village sits on the east side of Carson next to the Cal State Dominguez Hills campus, on land that once belonged to Rancho San Pedro. In 1910, crowds packed nearby Dominguez Hill for the country's first big air show, an event now marked by a state historical landmark. Houses in the neighborhood are largely midcentury single-family homes, mostly single story, set back behind short lawns. Many have been updated over the years with additions or new exteriors. The streets are laid out in tidy residential blocks, with light industry along the edges. Garages face the street, and many lots have gated driveways and low front walls. The university campus is the closest thing to a big park. CSUDH has open lawns and walking paths, the Leo F. Cain Library, and the Dominguez Hills Farmers Market sets up on campus. Dignity Health Sports Park, home of the LA Galaxy, is a short walk or drive away. Central Avenue is where you eat. Tummy Stuffer does sandwiches, Pho1945 serves pho, and Tacos Puebla and The Flame Broiler round out quick meals along the same stretch. It's a practical row, geared to a fast lunch between classes or a takeout dinner on the way home. Errands mostly require a car. Groceries are a drive west to Avalon Boulevard or University Drive, and the 405 and 91 freeways are close for commuting. On game days, the Galaxy Express shuttle links the stadium to the Harbor Gateway Transit Center, which also serves as the closest rail connection the rest of the week. The tradeoff is limited shopping nearby and industrial neighbors such as the General Mills plant, which bring trucks through the area. Still, living in Dominguez Hills Village means the college, the stadium and the farmers market are all right at the end of the street.