Living in Ventura County, Working in LA? Let’s Find a Home That Makes Commuting Easier

Let’s be honest — LA traffic is legendary for all the wrong reasons. But if you’re like many people who want more space, better schools, and a slower pace of life, Ventura County offers the perfect escape from city chaos. The best part? You don’t have to give up your LA job to live here — you just need the right neighborhood to make your commute manageable.

Whether you prefer cruising down the freeway with ocean views or hopping on a stress-free train, Ventura County has plenty of communities that balance small-town charm with big-city access. Let’s explore the best spots to call home if you need to commute to LA (but still want to feel like you’re on vacation when you get back).

Top Ventura County Neighborhoods for LA Commuters

Camarillo — The Sweet Spot Between LA & Ventura

Camarillo is a commuter’s dream. It offers a peaceful, suburban vibe with plenty of shopping, dining, and top-rated schools — but it’s close enough to LA that the drive doesn’t feel endless.

Commute Time to LA: ~50 minutes (via US-101 S)
MetroLink Access: Yes! Camarillo has a station with direct trains to LA.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Easy access to the 101 freeway for a straight shot into LA.
• A thriving community with great parks, golf courses, and the Camarillo Premium Outlets.
• Spacious homes at more affordable prices compared to LA’s suburbs.

If you want that perfect mix of convenience and comfort, Camarillo might just steal your heart.

Moorpark — Small-Town Vibes with Big-Time Transit Options

Moorpark feels like a hidden gem for commuters. It’s a little further inland, but the trade-off is a quieter atmosphere, affordable homes, and the bonus of a MetroLink station that makes getting to LA a breeze.

Commute Time to LA: ~55 minutes (via CA-118 E)
MetroLink Access: Absolutely — the Moorpark station connects you directly to LA Union Station.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Beautiful parks and safe neighborhoods make it a great place to raise a family.
• The MetroLink train lets you skip the freeway entirely.
• Smaller-town feel, but still close to shopping and restaurants.

If you want to avoid the stress of traffic altogether, Moorpark’s train access is a game-changer.

Thousand Oaks — Upscale Living Close to the City

Thousand Oaks is known for its luxury homes, stunning natural scenery, and top-notch schools. It’s one of the closest Ventura County cities to LA, which makes the drive shorter — and the quality of life here is unbeatable.

Commute Time to LA: ~45 minutes (via US-101 S)
MetroLink Access: Not directly, but freeway access is so good you might not need it.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Gorgeous neighborhoods with large homes, many with home office space.
• Plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking in Wildwood Park to exploring the Gardens of the World.
• Upscale dining and shopping without needing to head into LA.

If you’re looking for luxury living with an easy commute, Thousand Oaks delivers.

Commuting Perks: Transit Options & Time-Saving Hacks

Ventura County makes commuting easier with plenty of options:

• MetroLink Trains: Hop on and relax while you ride straight into downtown LA.
• Carpool Lanes on US-101 & CA-118: Shave time off your drive by carpooling or using rideshare apps.
• Park & Ride Lots: Park closer to home, then take transit the rest of the way to save money (and sanity).

The best part? Even if your commute takes a little longer, you get to come home to quiet streets, ocean breezes, and room to breathe.

Is Ventura County Right for Your Commuter Lifestyle?

Imagine leaving the hustle of LA behind at the end of the day and heading home to a beachside sunset or a peaceful backyard with mountain views. That’s the beauty of living in Ventura County — you get the best of both worlds.

If you’re ready to ditch the city grind but still need to keep your LA job, let’s find the perfect home that makes your commute as smooth as possible. I’d love to help you explore neighborhoods, navigate your options, and find a place that feels like home — even if you’re only there after 5 PM. 

Ventura County is full of possibilities, and your dream commuter-friendly home might be closer than you think. Let’s start the search!