Apartments for Rent in Downey, CA
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Renter's guide to Downey, CA

Considered one of the Gateway Cities, Downey is a small city in the southeast of the LA metropolitan area. It’s a city of longtime innovation and was home to the Apollo and Space Shuttle space programs, with much of the equipment designed and manufactured within the city. In many areas, it leans more urban than suburban, though it retains a strong sense of community, and is popular with young professionals and families alike.

With a population of 113,358, Downey is among the top 20 most populated principle cities in the LA metro area. However, with an area of 12.57 sq. miles, it’s not as densely populated as neighboring Gateway Cities, such as Maywood and Huntington Park. Compared to LA proper, it’s around 40 times smaller in terms of physical size. Located just 13 miles southeast of Downtown LA, it’s conveniently served by 4 major freeways, making travel in any direction easy, with popular spots such as Long Beach, just 14.5 miles south.

Downey has a semi-arid climate, which translates to hot summers and warm winters, with very little precipitation throughout the year. July is normally the hottest month, with averages of around 85°F, while January is the coldest, with lows of around 46°F. The city generally receives around 14 inches of rainfall per year and enjoys 287 sunny days.

Tips for renting in Downey, CA

Things to do in Downey, CA

Downey is home to 8 small parks, each with varying facilities. Dog walkers can enjoy the dog park at Rio San Gabriel Park, which also offers a kids' playground, picnic areas, and sports fields. Nearby Wilderness Park is slightly larger, and great for kids and adults alike, with 2 man-made ponds for fishing or feeding the ducks, plus numerous well-lit jogging and walking tracks.

Those keen on anything space related will love the Columbia Memorial Space Center, which features numerous kid friendly, interactive exhibits and a Space Shuttle simulator. Alternatively, take in a show at the Downey Theatre, with performances both local and from around the world. The theater is also home to the iconic Downey Día de los Muertos Art Festival.

Downey, CA employment & economy

Residents of Downey enjoy a higher than average median household income of $68,162. In 2017, Downey was recognized as the Most Business Friendly City in LA, and the city’s biggest employers include Kaiser Permanente, the Stonewood Center, and the Downey Unified School District.

The most common occupations include office and admin support roles, sales associates, and management occupations, while the highest paid jobs held by local residents include legal occupations, law enforcement supervisors, and health and technical occupations. The 2 largest industries in Downey are health care and manufacturing, closely followed by retail trade.

Education in Downey, CA

Downey is served by the Downey Unified School District, with 42 public schools within the city limits. Of the 3 high schools — Downey High, Warren High, and Columbus High — Downey High School is the top-rated and is ranked #419 best public high school in California. There are 4 public middle schools in Downey, and 13 public elementary schools. Griffiths is the top-rated middle school, while Lewis takes the top spot for elementary schools.

In addition to public schools, there are also 11 private schools in Downey. Calvary Chapel Christian School is the top-rated private school, and ranks #300 best high school in California, though it accepts students from K-12.