Somerset - Glendale, CA

Glendale remained sparsely populated until 1904 when the railroad linked the town with the rest of Los Angeles. Two years later, the city incorporated, and neighborhoods began taking shape.

Somerset developed as a farm operated by Glendale's pioneer Sherer family. After World War I, part of the property became a sanitarium serving war veterans. In the 1920s, developers began transforming the area into a residential neighborhood, purchasing portions of the farm. During the 1970s, the Glendale Freeway connected through Somerset, giving residents access to both downtown Los Angeles and the Ventura Freeway.

Somerset doesn't contain any museums, but the Glendale Historical Society, located in Brand Park, tells the city's history. The neighborhood also doesn't contain an arts scene. However, every June, the Montrose Arts & Crafts Festival features over 300 artists, musicians and entertainers.

Primarily a residential neighborhood, Somerset provides a low-key dining and nightlife experience.

Operating in Glendale since 1967, Scarantino’s presents traditional Italian fare in a family atmosphere. Try the lasanga served al dente, and save room for a cannoli. Expect a 15- to 30-minute wait for weekend dinners as this local favorite is very popular.

Indra Thai appeals to families wanting great Thai food at a reasonable price. Order one of the noodle dishes, such as pad thai or drunken noodles at this hidden gem. This great meal also won't burn a hole in your wallet as most entrées cost under $10.

For nightlife, you must travel outside Somerset to find activity. Just west of the neighborhood sits the Complex, a small performance venue hosting up-and-coming bands. Most shows range from $5 to $10. Karaoke runs every Monday night with no cover charge and a free second drink if you bike to the venue.

Dave's On Broadway provides weekly open mics for stand-up comics, open performances and karaoke. Happy hour occurs every night from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., featuring $1 off of domestic beers and $3 well drinks.

Most residents living within proximity of the Ventura and Glendale Freeways choose driving as their primary mode of transit. Side streets and businesses provide ample free parking, but finding space along Colorado Boulevard can be troubling.

Metro provides the most viable transit option, with lines accessing many parts of Los Angeles for $1.75, including two hours of transfers. The Rapid Bus has a stop on Broadway and Verdugo Avenue, connecting commuters with Pasadena and downtown Glendale. For the locals, the Glendale Beeline navigates the side streets for only $1 a ride.

Taxis do not largely frequent the neighborhood, but Uber, Lyft and other ride-share programs remain available. Cabs are most likely to be found near the Eagle Rock Plaza or Glendale Adventist Medical Hospital.

Many do not choose to walk because of the available parking in the neighborhood. Somerset contains no bike lines, but some streets are shared. Cyclists still ride on the major streets despite riding along high-speed traffic.

Somerset does not provide any significant open space within its tiny constraints. Windsor Mini Park serves as the neighborhood's only public space, providing a small children's playground, few park benches and patch of grass.

North of Somerset lies Scholl Canyon, featuring a variety of activities along Glenoaks Boulevard. This region contains a large children's park, ball fields and a golf course. Many cyclists also train up this challenging incline.

For those with more active lifestyles, Griffith Park lies 3 miles to the east. Recreationalists enjoy its extensive running trails, cycling lanes, equestrian facilities and golf courses.

There are no dog parks in Somerset, but residents take the Glendale Freeway into Silver Lake for the area's most accessible space.

While Somerset doesn't host any significant annual events, Glendale's Cruise Night attracts thousands to Brand Avenue every July, featuring classic rock performances and blocks of vintage cars.

The cost of living in Somerset is 8 percent lower than Glendale but 2.1 percent higher than Los Angeles. Expect to get value over most goods and services with the many discount stores lining Colorado Boulevard. Rent in Somerset averages to $1,226 a month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Compared to the national average, gas prices in Los Angeles cost about 22 percent higher. Expect to pay a few pennies less at the two gas stations in Somerset. Going out for a beer typically costs $3 to $5. Travelling to downtown Los Angeles takes 1 hour, costing $1.75 via Metro buses including transfers.

Somerset doesn't provide many shopping opportunities. Small businesses line Colorado Boulevard, selling discounted goods, but most residents drive to Eagle Rock Plaza or downtown Glendale to find a variety of stores.

The Kids Furniture Superstore sells a wide selection of children's goods that doesn't make you feel like you're in a big box store. While the store targets online sales, it welcomes shoppers and offers competitive pricing against other children's retailers.

Head to downtown Glendale to find most of the nearest boutiques and high-end stores. Zie Boutique features contemporary women's clothing and accessories. Shoppers can also peruse Zie's online store. Other popular boutiques include Sabrina's and Trousseau Boutique. Ralphs functions as the only major supermarket. Seafood City, located in Eagle Rock Plaza, attracts many locals looking for fresh fish and Asian food.

Somerset doesn't host its own farmers market, but residents either head to the downtown Glendale Market on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. or to the Eagle Rock Farmers Market, held on Fridays from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.