California Downey
Moving to Downey, California
Downey, California offers young professionals an energetic blend of suburban comfort and metropolitan access. Located just 15 minutes southeast of downtown Los Angeles, Downey combines walkable neighborhoods with proximity to major freeways and transit options like the Metro Green Line, making it easy to commute or explore the greater LA area.
Housing in Downey spans stylish mid-century homes, modern townhouses, and sleek apartment communities—providing something for every lifestyle and budget. Tree-lined streets and family-friendly neighborhoods add to the city’s inviting charm.
Downey is also rich in green spaces, featuring over a dozen community parks, bike-friendly streets, and the Rio Hondo trail—perfect for jogging, cycling, or relaxing outdoors. Local gyms, yoga studios, and wellness centers support a health-conscious and active lifestyle.
The city’s cultural and creative scene is on the rise, anchored by the Columbia Memorial Space Center and highlighted by vibrant public art installations like the Downey Doodle-icious mural. A growing food scene—ranging from classic diners and taco trucks to modern bistros and iconic stops like Porto’s Bakery—makes dining out a daily delight.
Signature events such as the Downey International Food & Music Festival and summer night markets bring the community together with live entertainment, art, and local flavor. With a strong local economy, access to job opportunities across greater LA, and a diverse, tight-knit community, Downey is an ideal home base for young professionals looking to build their future while enjoying a relaxed and creative Southern California lifestyle.
Downey by the numbers
City population
City rank of cost of living
Median home price
Planning a Long-Distance Move?
Discover Downey: Top Attractions and Things to Do
Local Experiences
Local Experiences
Downey, California blends the charm of a close-knit community with the creative energy of Greater Los Angeles. Its lively downtown offers locally owned shops, diverse dining spots, and a growing arts scene. Whether you're catching a live concert at the park, browsing an outdoor market, or exploring a vibrant mural alley, every day in Downey offers something new to experience and enjoy.
Creative Culture & Local Flavor
Downey’s roots in aerospace innovation are now complemented by a blossoming cultural identity. Local pride shines through in public art installations like the Downey Doodle-icious mural and initiatives like the Art in Public Places program. Historic architecture, classic diners, and modern boutiques line downtown streets, blending past and present in a uniquely SoCal way.
Arts & Entertainment
From community theater performances at the Downey Theatre to science-focused exhibits at the Columbia Memorial Space Center, Downey encourages curiosity and creativity. Pop-up art shows, cultural events, and the city’s own night markets bring fresh energy to public spaces. Live music at Furman Park or summer movie nights on the lawn help turn everyday evenings into memorable outings.
Community Events & Festivals
Downey’s calendar is filled with events that bring people together. From the Downey International Food & Music Festival to summer Concerts in the Park, the city offers regular opportunities for residents to gather, celebrate, and connect. Local farmers markets, car shows, and seasonal parades highlight the community's creative spirit and inclusive energy.
Sports and Recreation
Sport and Recreation
Downey, California is a city where staying active is part of the lifestyle. Whether you're a dedicated athlete, a weekend runner, or just love being outside, Downey offers a wide range of recreational options for all ages and fitness levels.
Local Sports & Community Pride
While Downey doesn’t host major professional teams, the city takes pride in its high school athletics and vibrant local sports culture. Schools like Downey High School and Warren High School regularly draw crowds for exciting football, basketball, and baseball games that foster strong community spirit. Youth leagues and recreation programs are widely available, keeping kids and teens active throughout the year.
Downey also hosts city-wide sports tournaments and events, ranging from basketball showcases to soccer camps, providing opportunities for friendly competition and community engagement.
Parks, Trails & Outdoor Activities
Downey features over 12 city parks, each offering something unique—from splash pads and shaded playgrounds to sports fields and open green space. Local favorites like:
-
Wilderness Park – A peaceful nature escape with walking trails and a duck pond
-
Furman Park – A hub for family picnics, concerts in the park, and community sports
-
Apollo Park – Featuring tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and a rec center
Downey also connects to the Rio Hondo Bike Trail, a scenic, paved path perfect for biking, jogging, or leisurely walks that stretches through neighboring cities.
Downey Parks & FacilitiesCommunity Sports & Fitness
Downey promotes wellness through affordable fitness and recreation programs offered at community centers like the Barbara J. Riley Community & Senior Center. This hub offer everything from yoga and Zumba to adult sports leagues, martial arts classes, and open gym time.
The city also maintains basketball courts, tennis courts, and skate parks, encouraging residents of all ages to stay active. In the summer, Downey's swim programs and open pool hours are especially popular for families and youth swim leagues.
Golfers can head just outside the city to Rio Hondo Golf Club or nearby Los Amigos Golf Course for a laid-back round of golf with Southern California sunshine.
Adventures
Adventures
Downey, California offers a lively mix of suburban comfort, cultural charm, and accessible outdoor fun. From local parks and trails to fascinating aerospace history and community-focused events, there’s always something new to explore in this Southern California gem.
Nature & Outdoor Exploration
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of ways to unwind in Downey. Wilderness Park offers shaded walking paths, duck ponds, and picnic spots ideal for quiet nature escapes. Furman Park is a favorite among families, with its sports courts, playgrounds, and summer concerts in the park. The Rio Hondo Bike Trail provides a scenic route for cyclists and runners, connecting Downey with neighboring cities and offering a peaceful break from the urban bustle.
Community spaces like Apollo Park also feature athletic fields, open-air fitness areas, and recreation centers that host year-round programs for all ages. Thanks to Downey’s mild, sunny weather, outdoor fun is always in season.
History, Culture & Day Trips
Downey has deep roots in the aerospace industry—most notably, it was home to the facilities where the Apollo space modules and Space Shuttle components were built. Today, that legacy is preserved at the Columbia Memorial Space Center, an interactive museum and STEM hub that offers fun, educational experiences for all ages.
The city’s growing cultural identity is reflected in public murals, local art shows, and events at the Downey Theatre, which hosts everything from community plays to national touring acts. Grab a pastry at the legendary Porto’s Bakery before browsing the boutiques and eateries in the walkable downtown core.
Columbia Memorial Space Center
Looking for day trips? Downey’s central location makes it easy to explore Southern California. Downtown Los Angeles is just 15 minutes away, offering world-class museums, pro sports, and nightlife. Nearby destinations like Long Beach, Pasadena, and Orange County offer beach vibes, botanical gardens, and historic landmarks—all within a 30–45 minute drive.
Seasonal Events
Seasonal Events
Downey, California celebrates the seasons with a year-round calendar of events that bring the community together and highlight the city’s diverse culture, creativity, and local pride. From festive holiday traditions to vibrant summer nights and autumn celebrations, every season offers a unique way to connect and enjoy the spirit of Downey.
Winter to Spring
The year kicks off with festive winter events like the Downey Christmas Parade, where floats, marching bands, and local organizations light up downtown in a colorful display of holiday cheer. Families also gather for Tree Lighting Celebrations and winter markets, where you’ll find local crafts, treats, and community performances.
As spring arrives, the city comes to life with Earth Day festivals, community cleanups, and garden workshops hosted by local organizations. The Downey Farmers Market returns in full swing, offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and a great weekend tradition. Spring also welcomes events like Easter egg hunts in the park and seasonal pop-up fairs throughout the city.
Summer to Fall
Summer in Downey means music, food, and community fun. The Downey International Food & Music Festival is a standout event, filling downtown with live music, global cuisine, and local vendors. Families gather for concerts at Furman Park, bringing a laid-back, picnic-style vibe to warm summer evenings.
The Fourth of July Fireworks Show, held at Discovery Sports Complex, lights up the night with a dazzling display that draws residents from all over the area. As fall sets in, Downey celebrates with harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and family-friendly Halloween events like Trick-or-Treat on Downey Avenue and haunted house experiences at local community centers.
Community Resources
Downey, California, provides residents with strong access to high-quality healthcare through a robust network of hospitals, clinics, and wellness services. From routine checkups to specialized care, the city’s medical providers are committed to supporting the physical and mental well-being of the community at every stage of life.
Major Hospitals
PIH Health Hospital – Downey
As the city’s primary hospital, PIH Health is a full-service facility offering emergency services, surgical care, maternity services, and specialty departments such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The hospital is known for patient-centered care and advanced medical technology, and it serves as a key healthcare provider for Southeast Los Angeles County.
Kaiser Permanente Downey Medical Center
Located just outside the city limits, Kaiser Permanente’s expansive campus offers comprehensive services to members, including urgent care, pediatrics, women’s health, internal medicine, and chronic disease management. The facility is part of a larger integrated care model that emphasizes preventive care and long-term health planning.
Kaiser Permanente Downey Medical Center
Mental Health & Community Wellness
Downey places a growing focus on mental and emotional wellness. Local clinics and counseling centers provide access to therapy, psychiatric care, and addiction support services. Resources such as The Whole Child and Pacific Clinics serve youth and families through early intervention programs and community-based behavioral health services.
Downey also offers access to LA County Department of Mental Health services, including crisis response teams, telehealth options, and referrals for ongoing support. Schools and community centers often partner with local providers to expand access to mental health education and services.
LA County Department of Mental Health
Urgent Care & Preventive Services
For immediate, non-emergency needs, Downey offers several urgent care centers and walk-in clinics that provide care for minor injuries, illnesses, and routine diagnostic services. Facilities like Concentra Urgent Care and CareNow Urgent Care offer extended hours and fast, affordable treatment options.
Preventive care is promoted through local vaccination clinics, screening events, nutrition and fitness programs, and health education initiatives led by both private and public healthcare providers.
From emergency and specialized care to community wellness programs, Downey's healthcare system is designed to support the physical and mental well-being of its residents throughout every stage of life.
Downey, California is known for its strong commitment to education, offering a wide range of quality learning opportunities for students of all ages. From well-regarded public schools to private and faith-based institutions, as well as accessible higher education options nearby, Downey supports academic achievement and personal growth throughout the community.
Public Schools
The Downey Unified School District serves the city with numerous elementary, middle, and high schools recognized for their dedicated staff, diverse programs, and commitment to student success. Schools such as Downey High School, Warren High School, and Williams Elementary offer robust academic curricula, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, STEM initiatives, athletics, and arts programs. The district emphasizes college and career readiness, providing students with pathways to vocational training, dual enrollment, and leadership development.
Downey Unified School District
Private & Faith-Based Schools
Downey hosts several respected private and faith-based schools that focus on personalized education and values-based learning. Schools like St. Raymond Catholic School and Saint Pius X Elementary offer strong academic programs in nurturing environments that encourage character growth alongside scholastic achievement.
Higher Education & Lifelong Learning
While Downey itself does not have a major university campus, it benefits from its close proximity to several renowned institutions in the greater Los Angeles area. Nearby community colleges such as Rio Hondo College and Cerritos College provide affordable associate degrees, career training, and continuing education programs designed to meet the needs of adult learners and professionals.
Additionally, universities including California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) and the University of Southern California (USC) are within easy commuting distance, offering extensive undergraduate and graduate programs across a variety of disciplines.
Downey, California offers residents a wide range of public services and utilities designed to keep the community safe, efficient, and well-connected. Whether you’re new to the area or have lived here for years, Downey provides essential resources to support daily life and improve quality of living.
Government & Safety
Downey prioritizes public safety and community engagement through dedicated city services. The Downey Police works proactively to maintain neighborhood safety with crime prevention programs, rapid emergency response, and community outreach initiatives. The Downey Fire Department provides fire suppression, emergency medical services, and disaster preparedness programs to protect residents and businesses throughout the city.
Transportation
Getting around Downey is straightforward thanks to multiple transportation options. The city is served by the Downey LINK Transit System bus routes, connecting residents to nearby communities in Southeast Los Angeles County. Major highways like the I-5, I-605, and I-105 offer easy access to Los Angeles, Orange County, and beyond.
For rail travel, the nearby Metro stations provide commuter rail access to downtown Los Angeles and other parts of Southern California.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located about 15 miles west of Downey, is the nearest major airport offering extensive domestic and international flights.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Vehicle Registration and Licensing
In Downey, vehicle registration and driver licensing are managed by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Residents can complete renewals, apply for new licenses, and manage vehicle titles online or at nearby DMV offices. California requires periodic smog inspections for most vehicles to comply with state emissions standards.
Your Expert in Long Distance Moves to Downey, California
Contact us or get in touch with a local agent
Request a Quote & Get a Free Moving Checklist!
This city guide is provided as a service by Atlas Van Lines.