La Mirada Local Insider

Discover one of Southern California’s best-kept secrets. Situated at the crossroads of Los Angeles and Orange County, La Mirada offers suburban charm, rich cultural diversity, and family-friendly amenities—all while being just minutes from major attractions like Disneyland, the beaches of Orange County, and the energy of Los Angeles.

Key Facts:

• City Established: 1960
• Population: 46,156
• Median Age: 43
• City Motto: “Dedicated to Service” 
• Median Household Income: $139,260 (well above the national average)
• Fun Fact: La Mirada means “the look” in Spanish, a nod to its origins as a planned utopian community developed in the 1950s.

Demographics:

• 44.7% Hispanic/Latino 
• 26.4% White (non-Hispanic) 
• 22.9% Asian 

Sources: City of La Mirada and Data USA 

“La Mirada is very safe and very clean. Basically a perfect suburbia.” – Cephyn, Reddit.

La Mirada City Highlights

• Safety Score: 82.33/100 – Ranking among California’s safer cities using comprehensive metrics, including crash frequency, severe injuries, impaired driving, and vulnerable road user safety, with particularly strong performance in DUI prevention
• Crime Down 11% – Part 1 crimes decreased from 981 (2023) to 875 (2024), with catalytic converter thefts dropping 62% and package theft incidents concentrated around 5 AM
• Affluent Diverse Suburb – Median household income of $139,260 (nearly double the national average) with 76% homeownership rate and 97/100 diversity score across Hispanic (44.7%), White (26.4%), and Asian (22.9%) populations
• Strategic Location – “The Gateway City” sits at LA-Orange County crossroads, offering 32-minute average commutes with quick I-5, I-605, and SR-91 freeway access to Disneyland, beaches, and downtown LA
• Family-Focused Community – Home to Biola University, Splash! Aquatics Center, 12+ parks, Saturday farmers market, and La Mirada Theatre, earning praise as “perfect suburbia” from residents

History & Origins of La Mirada

Once filled with citrus orchards and olive groves, La Mirada grew from Andrew McNally’s planned utopia into a thriving suburban city. Known in the 1950s as “the nation’s completely planned city,” the legacy shows in its well-maintained streets, parks, and neighborhoods. 

Check out these historic landmarks when you’re in the area:

• The Carriage Barn – A hub for city history and community events.
• The George House – La Mirada’s oldest residence. 
• The Neff House & Estate – Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tours of this historic estate are offered on the third Saturday of every month from 2 to 4 pm. 

Fun fact: Biola University still preserves the last contiguous olive groves in the region.

Top Things to Do in La Mirada

Splash! La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center 

Whether you’re swimming laps, enjoying water slides, or attending aquatic fitness classes, this modern facility is a year-round destination for water enthusiasts.

La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts 

As one of the city’s premier cultural landmarks, this theater offers a wide variety of performances throughout the year, including concerts, Broadway shows, and local productions.

La Mirada Community Regional Park 

A central hub for outdoor activities, this park features walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields, offering something for everyone. It’s perfect for family outings, exercise, or simply relaxing in nature.

La Mirada Symphony Orchestra 

Enjoy a night of classical music performed by the talented La Mirada Symphony Orchestra. The group frequently hosts concerts and events that highlight both popular and classical works.

La Mirada Farmers Market 

Held every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm at the La Mirada Activity Center, the Farmers Market offers fresh produce, artisan goods, and live entertainment. It’s a great way to support local vendors and enjoy fresh, seasonal food.

Seasonal Events: 

• Summer Concerts in the Park – Enjoy free outdoor concerts during the summer months at La Mirada Regional Park. A family favorite, this event features a variety of musical genres and is perfect for a relaxing evening with family and friends.
• Chili Holiday Celebration – La Mirada hosts several festive events around the holidays, including a chili fest at Splash!, a tree lighting ceremony, and a toy drive. 

Best kid-friendly destination: Splash! 

Best date night venue: La Mirada Theatre 

Best place to tee off: La Mirada Golf Course 

“Our family moved here … I know a lot of people say south of Whittier Blvd can be, generically, worse neighborhoods. For our experience, it’s been nothing but kind neighbors, beautiful holiday decorations, lovely parks.” – mperez247, Reddit.

Best Restaurants & Cafés in La Mirada

La Mirada’s food scene has grown considerably in recent years. Reflecting its diverse population, you can find a variety of cuisines and authentic flavors—from vibrant Mexican and Korean BBQ, to fresh sushi, Italian comfort food, and even hidden gems serving Peruvian, Thai, and Mediterranean dishes.

Local Restaurants 

1. The Korean fusion menu at Somethin’ blends flavors in an unexpected yet irresistible way. Known for its vibrant brunch offerings. 

Why locals go: Minimalist design, delicious pasta, and creative cocktails. 

“The restaurant is spacious, clean and modern, and the service was great. No wait on a Friday night. I am adding this to my list of go to places for dinner.” – Mo, Yelp 

@borderlinecook

📍Somethin’ in La Mirada, CA #pasta #cafe #lamirada #gambas #italian

♬ πρωτότυπος ήχος – Spiros Zorpidis – Spiros Zorpidis

2. For sushi lovers, Sushiholic is a must-visit. This local gem serves impeccably fresh sushi and flavorful teriyaki that keeps regulars coming back for more.  

Why locals go: No-frills spot serving both traditional and experimental sushi. 

3. Quick and friendly service, affordable prices, and delicious Indian food make Curry Hut a popular place for students. 

Why locals go: Generous portions of spicy Indian curries at great prices. 

4. With large portions of Mexican favorites, Tom’s Tailgate is a perennial favorite. 

Why locals go: Nachos, burritos, tacos, and taquitos – all made fresh. 

5. A haven for Korean BBQ lovers, RIBS & CO – Authentic AYCE KBBQ offers all-you-can-eat meats, served with traditional sides, in a lively atmosphere that makes every meal feel like a celebration. 

Why locals go: Premium meats in an elevated space. Popular for special occasions. 

6. Plates of loco moco, chicken katsu, and ribs are on the menu at Big Bros Hawaiian Grill. No flight to Hawaii necessary. 

Why locals go: For a taste of the islands, Big Bros can’t be beat. 

Local’s Tip: “La Mirada is mostly family-owned mom and pop restaurants.” – Stefan from LifeHacksLA 

Coffee & Cafés 

• Civitas Coffee – Community-driven coffee shop specializing in carefully brewed coffee, matcha, and tea drinks. 
• Enchanted Coffee Bar – Specialty lattes and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating make this coffee shop a popular hangout spot. 
• Dutch Bros – Popular drive-thru coffee chain with an extensive menu of coffee and non-coffee options. 
• Cream & Sugar Cafe – Friendly neighborhood spot serving excellent coffee, acai bowls, and sandwiches.

Life in La Mirada

La Mirada offers suburban tranquility with big-city perks, making it appealing to families, professionals, and students alike. Residents praise the city for its “quiet neighborhoods, excellent parks, and strong sense of community.” 

Cost of Living Snapshot

• Median home price: $809,310
• Homeownership rate: 76%
• Renters: 24%
• Average commute: 32 minutes

Source: City of La Mirada 

Community and Neighborhood Life

Locals appreciate the safe and clean streets, as well as the low crime rates, compared to neighboring areas. Many comment on “friendly neighbors, holiday decorations, and local parks that fill up with family events and Quinceañeras on weekends”.

Weekend activities often center around La Mirada Regional Park, the Farmers Market, and community events that offer a chance to connect with neighbors.

Reviews cite the “strong presence of Latino and Asian communities,” influencing local cuisine, festivals, and everyday life.

Grocery and food prices are a bit higher than national averages—a loaf of bread is about $4, milk is around $5 per gallon, and a casual dinner for two averages $82.

“A huge perk of living here is its close proximity to Buena Park and Anaheim, which are packed with entertainment options.”

Stefan, lifeHacksLA

Biola University’s Role in the Community

Located just minutes from the heart of La Mirada, Biola University is a private Christian university offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Its campus brings a youthful energy to the city and contributes to the community’s cultural and educational offerings.

“The presence of Biola University contributes to a well-behaved student demographic. Residents benefit from a variety of accessible grocery stores and dining options.” – ManyWaters777, Reddit.

City Services & Essentials

La Mirada City Hall
13700 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada, CA 90638
Phone: (562) 943-0131
Hours: Mon – Thursday, 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. Every other Friday, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm.

La Mirada Community Sheriff’s Station
13716 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada, CA 90638
Phone: (562) 902-2960
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 am to 7 pm; Saturday – Sunday, 8 am to 3 pm. Closed Holidays (except July 4th)

La Mirada Post Office
14901 Adelfa Dr., La Mirada, CA 90638
Phone: (714) 521-1097
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. Saturday, 9 am to 12 pm. Closed Sundays.

La Mirada Public Library
13800 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada, CA 90638
Phone: (562) 943-0277
Hours: Tuesday – Wednesday 12 to 8 pm. Thursday – Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Getting Around in La Mirada

Public Transit Options 

While La Mirada is primarily a car-dependent community, there are several public transportation options available for residents and students who prefer not to drive:

• OCTA (Orange County Transportation Authority)  – Bus routes 29 and 38 connect La Miradans to Huntington Beach and the Cerritos area. 
• Norwalk Transit – The Norwalk Transit System provides additional local bus services, connecting La Mirada to the Norwalk Metrolink Station and the Metro C Line station. 
• Montebello Bus Line – Route 50 runs from Downtown Los Angeles and Montebello to La Mirada. 
• Metrolink – For commuters traveling longer distances, the Norwalk/Santa Fe Springs Metrolink Station is nearby, offering access to downtown Los Angeles and other major employment hubs in Southern California. 

“La Mirada Transit offers curb-to-curb public transportation to the public for rides originating within the city. Big plus for senior citizens or people with disabilities.”

Stefan, lifehacksla

Freeway Access

La Mirada’s central location makes it easy to access major freeways, facilitating both short and long-distance travel:

• Interstate 5 (I-5) – The I-5 Freeway is one of the primary north-south routes in Southern California, providing access to downtown Los Angeles, Anaheim, and beyond. It’s just minutes from La Mirada, making it a convenient option for commuters.
• Interstate 605 (I-605) – The I-605 Freeway runs north-south along the eastern side of La Mirada, providing access to areas like Baldwin Park and Long Beach, as well as connecting to other key freeways.
• State Route 91 (SR-91) – For residents heading to Orange County, the 91 Freeway provides a quick route, connecting La Mirada to cities like Fullerton, Anaheim, and Riverside.

Traffic Hotspots to Know

Like many cities in Los Angeles County, La Mirada experiences traffic congestion during peak commuting hours. Some of the most common traffic hotspots include:

• Imperial Hwy & La Mirada Blvd Intersection – Known for congestion during morning and evening commutes, this busy intersection is a critical spot for those traveling in and out of the city. Drivers should be aware of frequent traffic delays and potential bottlenecks.
• Rosecrans Ave & La Mirada Blvd – Another busy intersection, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times, as well as when local businesses are active. It can be a challenge during peak hours.
• I-5 and I-605 Interchanges – These freeway interchanges are crucial points for commuters, but they can become congested during peak traffic periods. Planning travel times accordingly can help avoid delays.

Safety & Accident Hotspots in La Mirada

Like any city, La Mirada has its fair share of accidents. Locals frequently complain about the intersection of Imperial Highway and La Mirada Boulevard, one of the busiest intersections in the city. Drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists are encouraged to exercise caution, especially at night. 

At DK Law, we frequently see how accidents can be caused by a few seconds of negligence. Whether that’s texting and driving or speeding through a red light, it’s never worth the consequences. 

Traffic Safety & Dangerous Intersections

Dangerous Intersections:

• Leffingwell Rd & La Mirada Blvd 
• Imperial Hwy & Valley View Ave 
• Imperial Hwy & Biola Ave 
• El Espejo Rd & Rosecrans Ave 

Local Driving Tips:

• Avoid 605 on-ramps during rush hour—major bottlenecks.
• Watch for new traffic signals on Santa Gertrudes Ave.
• Imperial Highway has frequent incidents; drive defensively.

Crime Trends & Local Concerns

• Overall: Part 1 crimes decreased from 981 in 2023 to 875 in 2024.
• Thefts: Package theft peaks around 5 am; catalytic converter thefts dropped 62% but still occur.
• Scams: Elderly distraction scams reported between 11 am and 3 pm.
• Areas for Caution: Encampments near Imperial/Marquardt (Coyote Creek area), occasional fire risks.

Hospitals & Urgent Care in La Mirada 

Imperial Primary Urgent Care
15625 Imperial Hwy, La Mirada, CA 90638
Phone: (562) 902-3000
Provides immediate care for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses.

PIH Health Hospital – Whittier
12401 Washington Blvd, Whittier, CA 90602
Phone: (562) 698-0811
Full-service hospital offering emergency, surgical, and specialized care.

Whittier Hospital Medical Center
9080 Colima Rd., Whittier, CA 90605
Phone: (562) 945-3561
Full-service hospital offering emergency, surgical, and specialized care.

Why Locals Love La Mirada

La Mirada strikes the rare balance between family-friendly suburbia and big-city convenience. Residents enjoy:

• Clean, safe neighborhoods.
• Quick trips to Disneyland, beaches, and LA nightlife.
• Tight-knit cultural community with strong family values.

But locals will tell you: safety matters. The city has its share of risky intersections and occasional crime concerns, so staying informed is key.

When Accidents Happen: DK Law’s Role

Whether you’re a resident of La Mirada or just visiting, safety is a top priority. If you were involved in an accident that resulted in an injury, DK Law is ready to fight in your corner. We know the city’s traffic patterns, its high-risk intersections, and the unique challenges of navigating insurance and legal systems in a diverse community.

We handle cases including:

• Accidentes de Carro at dangerous intersections like Imperial & La Mirada Blvd.
• Slip & Falls at shopping centers, parks, and community facilities.
• Responsabilidad de las instalaciones cases at local businesses, theaters, or entertainment spots.

Why La Mirada Families Choose DK Law:

• We speak your language (English, Spanish, Korean, and more).
• No upfront costs—you only pay if we win.
• Deep local knowledge of La Mirada streets and businesses.
• Commitment to maximum compensation for your recovery.

Llame hoy for a free case review. We’ll meet you at your home, the hospital, or our office—because in La Mirada, community comes first.