2024 Best Colleges for Middle-Class Students in the Los Angeles Area

• Pasadena, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  133 reviews

Alum: I was in the Class of 1996. I had such a difficult time due to personal issues. I wish someone had been able to explain to me that it is okay to take a break. That would have been better than failing out and then taking a break. Also, peer support at the counseling center would have made a difference.... Read 133 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $30,162

• SAT range 1530-1580

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  420 reviews

Alum: Pomona College was a very transformative space for me. The small class sizes and strong sense of community among professors and students really helped me thrive. I was surrounded by intellectually curious peers and inspiring professors during my four years. Beyond academics, there were an abundance of research and work opportunities to help explore my passions and potential career interests that I would not have been able to do in a larger school. I was able to pursue athletics at the collegiate level, work as a teaching research assistant, and organize community events— the opportunities were endless if you really searched for them. I also cannot forget how beautiful the campus was and how amazing the dining hall food was! Beyond the Pomona College community, you also have access to a consortium of four more top undergraduate colleges (Claremont McKenna, Scripps, Harvey Mudd, and Pitzer) where you can take classes at and connect with a whole new network of students and professors.... Read 420 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $17,000

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  5,528 reviews

Junior: I came into UCLA as a transfer student and immediately joined the transfer summer program. The support I received from the program was incredible. I was able to form a community, make new friends, and explore the seemingly endless opportunities UCLA has to offer. Within the first month, I had an opportunity to join a physics lab. This is something that I wanted to do since I began my college journey. To be able to have this opportunity at UCLA is something that I have only dreamt of until now. Additionally, the people that you meet here at UCLA are all incredible and smart in their own ways. I have met tons of ambitious students with their own unique goals and career aspirations. It seems like this is a place filled with endless opportunity!... Read 5,528 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $13,393

• SAT range —

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  429 reviews

Freshman: People at CMC are welcoming, driven, intelligent, and fun to be around. There are a variety of social communities present on campus from kids that went to prep school, international school, charter schools, and public schools. Professors make themselves so accessible, and for many of my freshmen courses I am required to meet with them 1 on 1 before writing an essay. Everyone agrees that the professors truly care about their students. The social life can be really fun—Monte Carlo, Oktoberfest, and 601 are all a blast (especially because cmc is a wet campus and half the student body is part of a varsity sport). The campus is gorgeous being in the mountains with brand new facilities with much more on the way that is expected to be finished between 2024 and 2027. Not to mention it’s connected to a great college town with access to golf courses, beaches, and parks. Ultimately, you get all the benefits of a small and mid sized school in one… as long as you can manage a ton of work.... Read 429 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $21,663

• SAT range 1420-1530

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  4,227 reviews

Junior: The campus community thrives on inclusivity and support, with individuals eager to engage in meaningful conversations and lend a helping hand. UCI has a myriad of club opportunities available. No matter your interests, there is an organization that caters to your passions that provide avenues for personal development and also serve as platforms for making lifelong friendships with like-minded individuals! The campus boasts a wide array of support resources aimed at ensuring the success and well-being of every student. Academic support centers, tutoring programs, and career services are readily available, empowering students to excel in their studies and prepare for their future endeavors. A big plus is that within a short walking distance there is a lot of dining options. Additionally, the convenience of nearby grocery stores and transportation to them ensures that students can easily access the essentials they need, making life on campus incredibly convenient.... Read 4,227 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $11,633

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  501 reviews

Junior: I think one thing that sets Oxy apart from other schools is the relationship you will build with your professors and peers in a class setting. My professors are always really accessible and encourage everyone to go to office hours and ask questions. Because of the small class size and collaborative setting where I am able to talk to my classmates, I've met some of my closest friends in my classes at Oxy. Everyone here is super involved and passionate about something they do on campus. This creates a really fun and supportive culture where we all go to everyone's club events, music performances, and sports games. Oxy really takes advantage of its location in Los Angeles. I've had field trips to Downtown LA and City Hall, and there are lots of opportunities to get off campus like free tickets to the Kings game last week! I chose Oxy because I wanted to be a part of a community that cares about what they are doing and that is exactly what I've found here.... Read 501 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $43,047

• SAT range 1340-1490

• Long Beach, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  4,826 reviews

Alum: This school is full of wonderful people. There a lot of students from all over the world with a brilliant personalities. If you don’t fit in, they will help you to fit in and succeed. A lot of students from economically successful social groups in the third college generation. I witnessed freshmen who drive Maserati and Tesla. Some professors are incredible, polite and have a tendency to like all of their students and treat them like if they were their kids. The parking lots are great. You be late for 30 minutes before classes and always find a free spot. I’m so glad I graduated from that place. Beaches are nearby and it’s a beach life. If I will ever have kids, I will send them to CSULB instead of sending them to an expensive private college where they can experience bad influence from spoiled classmates or toxic environment of faculty and administration. Don’t hesitate and Go Beach!... Read 4,826 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $9,171

• SAT range 1020-1240

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  646 reviews

Junior: I think that overall, Pitzer offers an incredible education and a supportive community of students who genuinely care for each other. There's such a diverse range of courses, not to mention the incredible access you get to courses throughout the Claremont Consortium. However, sometimes it feels as though the administration is out of touch with the needs of the student body. There's been times where students, particularly minority students, have felt their needs disregarded by administration despite pressure from the student body. It's another thing I admire about Pitzer - students aren't afraid to speak their mind, and organize for causes they believe in.... Read 646 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $19,153

• SAT range 1300-1450

• Pasadena, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,789 reviews

Freshman: Pasadena City College while not a highly connected community, is a very pleasant and friendly one. Students tend to keep to themselves and professors are very eager to help their students succeed and are far more willing to communicate with their students than in my previous college experiences. It will not be easy! You will need to put in hard work, and utilize all resources available to you should you want to pull off those A grades. The campus is sweet and small, relatively quiet and nestled right next to many boba shops and fast food options for busier students who need a quick meal to tide them over. Be it working night shifts, day shifts, or anything in-between; if you are willing to communicate with professors they will do all in their power to accommodate you. Overall while students tend to keep to themselves, some of the best friendships I've made were through PCC. I discovered both my patience and my grit with the Pasadena Lancers, proud to have been apart of the family... Read 1,789 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,466

• SAT range —

• Walnut, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,946 reviews

Sophomore: Mt. SAC has given me a sense of belonging in college, a newfound appreciation for education, and guidance for the rest of my life. The support programs and clubs gave me a community in higher education. The teachers, counselors, and fellow students gave me a newfound appreciation for education. And my guidance for the rest of my life came from the Mt SAC. events, counselors, student programs, and courses. I couldn't be more grateful!... Read 1,946 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,774

• SAT range —

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  3,660 reviews

Freshman: My experience at UCR has been great so far. First, I love the diversity we have here on campus! I was able to meet people from everywhere, and everyone is very friendly, so it was really easy to make a few friends along the way. Most of my professors have been great, and I could tell that they were really passionate about what they were teaching. Although I am not the biggest fan when it comes to long lectures, I feel like I am actually learning something, rather than when I was in high school. I also love the abundance of events that occur daily. The organizations/clubs are really awesome too, with most of them sounding very interesting to join. I am currently in two clubs and they are really fun. My only critique would probably have to be some professors not actually teaching, making it a less fun experience. But overall, I am happy I chose to be a student here, and I can't wait to see what the future holds!... Read 3,660 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $13,502

• SAT range 1080-1280

• Fullerton, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,248 reviews

Senior: My first year was all online due to COVID. I had extremely supportive and accommodating professors. The workload was very doable, just make sure to communicate with your professors whenever you miss something or do not understand. In my second year, I lived in the on-campus apartments. It is fairly regulated on campus, and people can be shy but is a very safe and healthy environment. Everyone loved their RA's because they were so sweet. My third year was living in campus-affiliated apartments, which was amazing. You have more freedom, but can still walk to school. The campus is very large which means there are endless opportunities for students. We have some of the best departments regarded in the state with some of the most reputable professors. Join clubs as well! Being part of clubs with your interests and meeting new people that way completely changes your college experience. It is the easiest way to connect with people! There are several food places on campus and the gym is big!... Read 5,248 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $4,939

• SAT range 1000-1180

• Glendale, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  680 reviews

Sophomore: I love this school! Overall it's been a great experience being a student at GCC. The professors are mostly good, the classes are engaging and I've learned a lot, and the school administrators are very helpful. I've worked with many counselors and I feel very supported by my school, and I'm always learning about new groups or scholarship opportunities. The transfer center is also great and offers many resources for students looking to transfer with an Associates degree.... Read 680 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,823

• SAT range —

• Santa Monica, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  2,143 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a on campus Santa Monica College student. The energy on campus is very positive along with friendly students. The campus is also very diverse wit both students and teachers! There are a lot of food and drink choices all over the campus as well! The patio area near the cafe has a vast amount of tables and seating areas. Most of the class rooms look new and updated with both the buildings structure and the technology. The school also offers a large variety of different classes and the class options are very flexible to complicated schedules. Santa Monica College also offers a significant amount of extra help for students with learning disabilities. Most of the staff is friendly, welcoming, and helpful. There are also many clubs, fairs, and events on the Santa Monica campus. I personally believe that Santa Monica College is one of the best community college options available in California.... Read 2,143 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,380

• SAT range —

• Norwalk, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,331 reviews

Niche User: The best decision I have ever made was to attend Cerritos College for my summer courses. My teachers' and counselors' support throughout all of my classes helped me finish with excellent grades. The college environment in Cerritos is diverse and conveniently located. It is convenient for us students to grab a bite to eat before class because the campus is close to many restaurants. The level of safety is incredible, with constant security ensuring that all students are secure during class hours and during various important events. At Cerritos College, the students are approachable and make it simple to form relationships. Sports in Cerritos are exciting and enjoyable, especially football games. #GoFalcons!... Read 1,331 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,557

• SAT range —

• Orange, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  377 reviews

Alum: The overall way the campus is set up and run is great. I enjoyed my classes here, and I had great professors! The classes are good quality for the most part, especially if you are going for general education. One downside is that they don't offer as many options for majors as other colleges do. Lots of clubs and activities happening here on a regular basis! The campus itself is pretty small, but the area is nice. It's usually a pretty safe place to be, even at night. Being a two year school, there isn't a lot of student housing or apartments nearby, which can make commutes a little difficult. Overall a great place to get started with school if you don't know where to go!... Read 377 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,879

• SAT range —

• Cypress, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  1,047 reviews

Sophomore: I love Cypress College! I came here after being at a 4-year university for a bit, because I wanted to save money. Cypress hasn't disappointed. They have plenty of programs that help students of different backgrounds. I've been fortunate to have all my textbooks paid for by the VRC. The STEM Program also provides amazing resources to students, including books loans and other perks. Campus provides free breakfasts and lunches for all students. If you're involved in clubs, there's so much potential to build a community for yourself. I generally feel safe on campus. Surrounding area has a lot of good restaurants and stores. Academics are good, but I've only had experience with STEM. I'm sure quality varies by professor since many are adjunct/not tenured; make use of RateMyProfessors. Overall I've had a wonderful experience here. Community colleges are a great financial decision, and Cypress College makes it a great educational and social experience as well.... Read 1,047 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,951

• SAT range —

• Moorpark, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,200 reviews

Junior: Moorpark is a great college with a lot of options for classes and great programs. I am currently enrolled in their radiologic technology program and it is so amazing. The professors are great and the program really makes you prepared to work in a hospital setting. I also did my pre requisites for the program at Moorpark and have received a Associates from Moorpark College. The only change I would like to see if counselors who are more helpful and caring. I had many poor experiences with the counselors there and know many students that agree with me. Overall it is a great school and I would highly recommend it to anyone, especially for radiology!... Read 1,200 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,856

• SAT range —

• Northridge, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  5,017 reviews

Alum: What I enjoyed from California State University, Northridge is that a lot of the professors are very considerate of the students and they also know how to teach the subject pretty well, whether it be kinesiology classes, or general education classes. The diversity in this school helps you feel like you belong in a higher education school. I also appreciate the amenities that come with paying your tuition, such as the Student Recreational Center, the Oasis Center, and the Oviatt Library. The Student Recreational Center is a gym with 3 floors, indoor rock-climbing, indoor basketball, indoor volleyball, indoor soccer, indoor track and even has a recreational pool! The Library was four floors and very resourceful. The rest of my 5 years there were mostly online due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the school was very supportive throughout this time. The only change I would like to see would be to have more consistency with Canvas for some professors, otherwise my experience at CSUN was amazing.... Read 5,017 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $8,708

• SAT range 900-1110

• Compton, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  390 reviews

Sophomore: The college itself is a supportive one that has good intentions! My only issue is how and the time things are resolved. Besides those issues, it’s a magnificent college with plenty of opportunities which allow the students that attend to flourish and or succeed! I would recommend this college if you already have an idea and or plan of what you intend to achieve. The reason why, is because community colleges are very easy to lose track of what your goals and aspirations are due to not having an idea and or plan of what one must complete.... Read 390 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,875

• SAT range —

• Fullerton, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,409 reviews

Sophomore: I liked the environment and campus. The school had a lot of resources that helped me in classes. I made a lot of friends and new people. I had the opportunity in multiple classes to communicate and get to know New people. The campus is close and small. Getting around classes was pretty simple. If I was ever lost, there was someone always willing to help me. The food on campus is great! They also had a Jamba Juice that was not open and still isn’t to this day. The idea of it is awesome though, I love Jamba Juice. They should open it. I do enjoy the life outside of school. We are so close to cal state Fullerton. There are a lot of fun things to do and places to visit where you will find students from all over. My professors here at Fullerton college are all very unique. Some very outgoing, some very calm and simple, some are even hilarious. The variety of personalities at this school is very unique. The diversity is beautiful. The education is great and simple. Lots of cool courses also... Read 1,409 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,191

• SAT range —

• Long Beach, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,748 reviews

Sophomore: Long Beach City College (LBCC) is widely recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and inclusive environment. The college offers diverse programs and courses, supported by knowledgeable and supportive faculty members. LBCC's emphasis on practical experience through internships and hands-on learning opportunities is commendable. The college fosters a sense of belonging and encourages students from different backgrounds to engage in meaningful dialogue. However, some students have expressed a desire for improved technology and modern facilities on campus. Additionally, streamlining administrative processes and enhancing communication channels could further improve the student experience at LBCC. Overall, LBCC provides a quality education with dedicated faculty and a diverse community, and with continued efforts to upgrade infrastructure and improve administrative procedures, the college can further enhance the student experience.... Read 1,748 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,550

• SAT range —

• Costa Mesa, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,156 reviews

Alum: OCC is one of the biggest and, arguably, one of the best community colleges in the nation. They boast a large variety of majors and programs for students to explore. My experience with the counselors have been amazing, as they helped me complete the credits I needed for transfer and discover the right major for me. As a two-year college, the classes offered are mostly lower division general education classes. OCC offers an associates degree or certification for almost every major available. The facilities on campus are well maintained with brand new buildings across campus, including the college center, student union, literature & language building, and (my favorite) the planetarium. You’ll be able to meet and learn along side a diverse population of students coming to study from across the country and the world. With a beautiful campus, a large variety of majors, and amazing staff, I couldn’t recommend OCC more!... Read 1,156 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,836

• SAT range —

• Irvine, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  821 reviews

Sophomore: The professors I have had are all AMAZING! They provide online and in-person education and require that students be vaccinated if they have in-person classes. It is a super clean campus and they try very hard to bring all the students together even though it is a community college; they plan events and have food drives as well as ceremonies for those who are transferring out. The only thing that I think they can work on is hiring more competent counselors. The counselors do not know enough to help you succeed when transferring to other universities, which can cause you to stay at IVC for more than the estimated two years.... Read 821 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,860

• SAT range —

• Pomona, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,233 reviews

Senior: Cal Poly is an amazing school, there is a lot of problems with it when it comes to the size of the campus and the difficulty of the classes. However, I think overall going to CPP has been great and I have become a better person because I went here. Some professors are worse than others but I have met absolutely some of the best professors ever here and even some of them helped me get into the professional career. I think if you go to college seriously and want to really better your life this is a great school. Also the social life in Cal Poly is great too! lots of parties, and good times to be had here if you live on dorms or around the campus! I love it here and I have really grown since going to CPP. I recommend it to anyone especially in engineering or science fields.... Read 3,233 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $12,942

• SAT range 1010-1250