Neighborhoods in LA vary greatly and depend on what you value. For example, if you want good schools, yard and say house under 700k, and want to commute to Santa Monica. Your best bet is West San Fernando Valley, such as Woodland Hills and parts of Calabasas.
Thousand Oaks would reduce house costs to 400-600k, but add 20-30 mins to an already hour-long drive. Forget public transit.
If you don't need to go to SM/Venice/West LA, then going south might be better. Orange County has a lot to offer and probably a bit cheaper.
If you are ok with Condos/Townhomes, either direction, 2-3 br condo can be had for less than 400k, sometimes less than 300k.
Most condos on the west side are more like 600-900k and above, so the drive can save you 50%, but it really sucks. (Did the drive for 6 years.)
Hmm, a few of these are not even in the same county, 700k too rich. Middle-class is more like 300k. Most choices around say, 300k are around Downtown or South Central and have bars on the windows, which is what I was slightly exaggerating by calling them "near skid-row." I'm guessing nearby schools are in similar condition.
Greater LA area covers at least 3 counties. How's that a problem?
If you want sub 300k in a safe area with shorter commute, then you have to stick to condos. If you have to have a house, commute is required. Valencia, Santa Clarita, Sylmar, all have houses in $300k or less.
Homeless explosion has as much to do with inadequate mental health care as any economic situation. Homelessness is such a complex topic that no comment on a thread could ever do it justice. Try talking a chronically homeless person into accepting a free apartment - you'd be surprised at the answer and concerns.
