2023 Best Community Colleges in the Los Angeles Area

• Walnut, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  1,892 reviews

Freshman: This is one of the best California community college, has a vast and diverse range of classes, excellent professors and facilities, friendly staff, renovated business and computer classrooms, seamless online classes, and cozy campus atmosphere. Mt. Sac definitely shows for being rated as a top community college. Upon first arrival I was impressed with how lovely and amicable all the staff, counselors, and professors were. With great classes, support, and experienced professors you are sure to be able to transition to a 4-year university transfer well!... Read 1,892 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,297

• SAT range —

• Pasadena, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,751 reviews

Sophomore: The staff and counselors are extremely friendly. They all share one common goal, and that is to see the students succeed. The course rigor will prepare you for transfer and you will meet like minded peers. There is a honors program that will prepare you for transfer, it will also expose you to many careers along with research opportunities. The clubs here are great for all sorts of careers. The location is perfect, there are great boba spots and restaurants near by. By participating in many clubs, you will get to work alongside students from California Institute of Technology. The professors are very nice and understanding, if you struggle with a class there are ample of opportunities to get help from professor or tutoring services provided by PCC. During the pandemic, the school helped many students with financial aid, they provided me with a laptop to keep, gas money, grocery money, and free food at pantry. Overall, my experience would be a 10/10!... Read 1,751 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,465

• SAT range —

• Orange, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  366 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 366 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,344

• SAT range —

• Santa Monica, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  2,098 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 2,098 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,625

• SAT range —

• Moorpark, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,167 reviews

Graduate Student: It was a great stepping stone for someone in my position. I had to work part-time and even full-time throughout my education experience post high school. I also didn't know what exactly I wanted to major in as I had a variety of personal passions. I was able to attend a great community college with amazing faculty, decent sized classes and well-cared for grounds in a positive environment whilst figuring it out. I was able to leave Moorpark debt-free, degree under belt, and maturity and wisdom to continue on in my educational pursuits. I now know for certain what direction I'm headed in academically and have had ample opportunity to financially prepare for the university of my choosing. I am glad I had such a well-cared for community at Moorpark College while I transitioned from dependent high schooler to an independent young adult advancing in her educational and career choices.... Read 1,167 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,703

• SAT range —

• Norwalk, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  1,300 reviews

Junior: During my tenure at Cerritos, I encountered a considerable sense of monotony and repetitiveness in the academic sphere. However, I utilized the school's diverse range of courses to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of my personal and professional aspirations. The atmosphere surrounding the school was exceedingly convivial and inclusive, with students exhibiting a willingness to offer guidance and assistance upon request. Nonetheless, one particular aspect that warrants improvement pertains to the dissemination of pertinent information to the student body. On numerous occasions, I remained unaware of significant events until the eleventh hour, preventing me from adequately accommodating them into my schedule. Consequently, I suggest a revamp of the notification system to facilitate timely communication of vital information, enabling students to plan effectively and maximize their participation in such events.... Read 1,300 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,514

• SAT range —

• Mission Viejo, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,260 reviews

Sophomore: Saddleback College is a great community college to attend, though it should be noted that the on-campus experience (clubs, etc.) has been hampered by COVID-19 and vaccine mandates. I drive 20 minutes to come here as opposed to attending my local school because I find that professors are consistently more flexible, people are more interesting, and their music program is the best of its kind. I'm a CDE Major, and the only thing I can say is that I wish more CDE classes were offered in-person instead of online. Online classes tend to be just an amalgamation of PDFs and internet videos, so no real learning is accomplished. Lastly, I'd like to point out that their DSPS department is super helpful: I absolutely love my counselor; she helps me with all aspects of school and life. My advice to the Saddleback student would be to seek learning opportunities (work, volunteering) outside of school because you probably won't get it here due to COVID.... Read 1,260 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,867

• SAT range —

• Glendale, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  661 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Glendale Community College has been so beneficial towards my future in such a short amount of time so far. I am currently in the middle of my freshman year taking general education courses towards my future major; and must I say, GCC has a variety of courses to offer. The teaching styles are very diverse and open to your type of learning styles whether it is in-person, online, or hybrid. The coordination between professors and students is phenomenal. The professors at GCC devote their time to help share their love, intelligence, and passion to their students to help guide for their own future. Not only are the teaching styles adjustable to every one, the programs GCC provides for further help or learning opportunities are prominent. Besides the academic environment, GCC is located in a safe area with a beautiful campus! The campus is experiencing new renovations which is allowing to bring the campus back to life! Overall, GCC has been an exceptional opportunity!... Read 661 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,727

• SAT range —

• Costa Mesa, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  1,119 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 1,119 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,499

• SAT range —

• Cypress, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  1,020 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 1,020 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,516

• SAT range —

• Irvine, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  801 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 801 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,797

• SAT range —

• Fullerton, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,375 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 1,375 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,941

• SAT range —

• Santa Ana, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  778 reviews

Freshman: What I like about Santa Ana is the financial help they give to students. There are so many resources to be able to get help if you cannot pay for college. Also, the professors are amazing they really do care about you and about succeeding! They also are there to help you if you have any problems or questions. The campus is beautiful they have been adding new buildings and remodeling it. My favorite building is the Johnson student center you can go there and do your online class, study, or do homework. I also like that Santa Ana has many options for diffrent subjects in tutoring. I also love that they have a mesa program for my engineering major!... Read 778 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,658

• SAT range —

• Santa Clarita, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  984 reviews

Graduate Student: To a potential Cougar, College of the Canyons is the college to attend for a quality and affordable educational experience. Do not wait and enroll now because you will not be disappointed! The teachers are well versed, understanding, and committed to helping students graduate. This super huge and clean campus is jam-packed with bountiful opportunities for you to cultivate yourself into a successfully empowered individual who is skilled in their line of education and knows how to apply their wisdom to help their community. I received two associates in psychology and sociology under the associate's degree transfer program. I am currently attending California State University Northridge- the transfer process was a breeze. Are you still here? Go ahead and enroll. And one last thing, if you are a foster youth the R.I.S.E scholar's program is a life saver for current and former foster youth. College of the Canyons makes graduating college a wonderful experience.... Read 984 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,032

• SAT range —

• Glendora, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  772 reviews

Freshman: I personally feel there are a lot of resources at Citrus college and that they are truly there to help you achieve your goals. I hardly ever ran into a bad professor and the school genuinely felt like a community while I was attending. I highly recommend attending for General Education courses however there are a wide range of certificates available to earn there as well. Online learning was not a problem either as there were many accommodations made for me— a student with a disability. The professors all did seem to be doing their part with their students’ best interests in heart. I recall never being nervous to ask for an extension or popping in for their office hours because I was always met with a smile and welcoming aura. For anyone unsure of whether Citrus College is the right fit for them, I would say to give the school a chance because it just might be exactly what they are looking for! Furthermore, Citrus College is a place where you get back double of what you put into it.... Read 772 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,394

• SAT range —

• Huntington Beach, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  520 reviews

Freshman: First and foremost, the campus is beautifully laid out. Lots of nature, trees and hidden study spots. The teachers are compassionate and generous with study help and don't pile on homework like in high school. The work can pile up.. if you procrastinate so don't. My favorite thing about this college is by far their three story library. It really makes me feel like a college kid! The best spot is the second story on the frontside of the building. There is a long line of desk against a huge window view of the trees and nature making it a prime study spot!... Read 520 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,881

• SAT range —

• Yucaipa, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  522 reviews

Graduate Student: I very much enjoyed attending Crafton Hills College. The professors and facility were incredibly helpful in helping me pursue my degree, and I would have never been able to complete it without them. Despite the three major changes I went through, having to move to remote learning, and how intense everything had gotten during the pandemic, the entire campus workforce was supportive and encouraging nonetheless. If I had to do the college experience all over again, I would not hesitate to attend Crafton again!... Read 522 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $20,223

• SAT range —

• Compton, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  376 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 376 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,402

• SAT range —

• Whittier, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  845 reviews

Junior: Rio Hondo is such a great institution! From the great lab facilities to the great lunches at the café. Rio Hondo offers great staff and a set of wonderful professors who give you the help you need for success. The transfer center also has played a huge roll in my educational path. They are all friendly and very helpful with all the steps needed to transfer to any university. The difference between Rio and other junior colleges they sacrifice their time and refuse to give up on their students. Their love of success for their students is remarkable. In conclusion, I would highly recommend Rio Hondo Community College for its excellent staff and great help for all students on their journey to success!... Read 845 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,220

• SAT range —

• Long Beach, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  1,712 reviews

Junior: The most caring and educational college i have ever been too. The amount of support that the students get from staff is phenomenal. Long Beach City College wants to help their students succeed in all aspects of life! They promote Mental Health and offer an avenue of programs and services for students having a difficult time with their studies. Such as success centers, programs for disabled students, basic needs and mental health services.... Read 1,712 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,583

• SAT range —

• Oxnard, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  326 reviews

Sophomore: I love the affordability, especially with the California Community College Grant! My professors have all been reasonable, if not excellent for the most part. As an asynchronous/online student I have not had much opportunity to meet with my peers, and I feel like my professors have not done enough to get us to connect so we can help each other out. The campus isn't exactly extravagent, but I can't say much since I've only taken one in-person class here. Overall, my experience here has been positive and though I have had to figure things out myself in some cases, going here has saved me time and money.... Read 326 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $3,509

• SAT range —

• Wilmington, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  534 reviews

Freshman: I attended courses here in High School and had a great professor! It made me want to attended here after I graduated. I was confused on what I wanted to do, but Los Angeles Harbor College has a great support team. Their website and student portal is a bit difficult to navigate honestly. But I will say they have a great support team, professors, and counselors. I am glad they keep the classes up to date, as in the courses they have to offer. I am an Education major and I feel very supported here at Los Angeles Harbor College. I am very glad I chose to attend my local community college. I was conflicted on whether or not to attend a university straight after high school, due to finical reasons and yes even in community college I have the same struggles. Overall I am happy with my choice and I feel like I will succeed here at Los Angeles Harbor College. I cannot wait to continue my journey here. I am grateful to learn about Early Childhood Education and transfer in two years. Thank you!!... Read 534 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,831

• SAT range —

• La Puente, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  6 reviews

Freshman: I am enrolled in the psychiatric technician program at this school, and overall my experience with this school has been positive. The three teachers that i have had are caring, more than any other college i have been a part of. The administration goes through great lengths to make themselves available. My administrative representative actually reached out to me to about scholarship opportunities. overall, this has been the best college experience that i have had.... Read 6 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $2,434

• SAT range —

• Torrance, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,521 reviews

Alum: I enjoyed my time at El Camino! It was a great stepping stone as a transfer student into a college work load and professors are very good at their jobs considering they all come from respected universities to teach here. I think there can be improvement on student life. It is not very social and people come to do there classes and they leave. Unless you’re an extroverted, social person, you probably won’t make many friends. However I had an overall positive experience at El Camino and will recommend to anyone who would like to transfer to a 4 year.... Read 1,521 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,111

• SAT range —

• Ventura, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  740 reviews

Junior: VC was an amazing JC to attend they really cared about their students and made you feel welcomed! All the teachers and counselors were super helpful. Walking around the campus was easy to find the classes and they had good taco trucks on campus! I attended VC for 5 years and always felt at home. When the pandemic hit all the teachers were super helpful and understanding about the circumstances families were going through. They made it an easy transition from going from class to online as it was a jurassic change for all of us. Being apart of a sport as well the trainers took good care of us athletes! There is an amazing view of the ocean and the weather was always perfect there! All the resources were easy to access and they truly care about each student! You definitely see a lot of familiar faces which was always nice. It helped me save money too! and transfer now to CSUN where I will be continuing my education thanks to Ventura College it was an great experience! that I won’t forget... Read 740 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,347

• SAT range —