El Monte is a picturesque residential and business community nestled in the San Gabriel Valley. The city slogan is “Welcome to Friendly El Monte” and is evident is the warm and welcoming neighborhoods and convenient amenities located throughout the community. Located just 12 miles from downtown Los Angeles and with easy access to Interstates 605 and 10 it has become a popular commuter community. Residents also take advantage of train and bus service and the El Monte general aviation airport.

The friendly neighborhoods of El Monte are a testament to the city slogan. There are lovely communities with affordable housing of various styles and sizes. There are developments of single family homes with lovely yards and patios for relaxing. Well designed and maintained mobile home parks provide residents with clubhouses and pools. There are also townhouse and condominium complexes that offer units of varying styles and designs with amenities such as fitness facilities and pools and spas.

There are 30 public schools in El Monte. There are 22 elementary schools some serving grades kindergarten through sixth grade and others educate students through the eight grade. One public school offers instruction for grades kindergarten through twelfth grade and there are two middle public schools and five public high schools. Nineteen private schools are also available. There are 14 private preschools, two private elementary schools, one private high school, and two private schools that provide instruction for grades kindergarten through twelfth grade.

Residents enjoy services provided by 12 city facilities supervised by the Parks and Recreation Division. The division coordinates school clubs, social activities such as dances for young teens, nutritional awareness and fitness programs, hosts field trips, and sponsors recreational activities. There are also adult sports programs and communities events and festivals. Athletic leagues include baseball, softball, golf, and basketball. The community boasts an Aquatic Center with three pools that provides swimming lessons, recreational swimming, and hosts competitions.

The city parks are well maintained and offer residents beautiful areas for picnics and play. Visitors enjoy well equipped playgrounds and picnic areas, sports fields, basketball courts, and walking and hiking trails. Recreation Centers also provide indoor recreation, activity, and meeting rooms. Arceo Park has a band shell used for outdoor concerts and events.

Dining opportunities in El Monte is almost endless. There are seafood restaurants, steak houses, fine dining establishments that offer a wide array of cuisines, cafes, bistros, diners, delicatessens, bakeries, and fast food eateries. Hungry residents can make reservations for a luxurious dining experience, enjoy their favorite dishes at a quaint bistro or alfresco at a local cafe, grab a burger or wings at a sports pub, or take home mouth watering deli sandwiches or pizza to relish as they relax on the patio.

Shoppers enjoy a well designed corridor of shops along El Monte Street and South El Monte Street. The are box stores, discount retailers, specialty shops, and boutiques. Another popular destination is the Downtown Valley mall an outdoor shopping venue that includes shops and businesses. Other malls include Five Points Shopping Center, Victoria Center, and El Monte Center. A local Farmer's market provides fresh fruits and vegetables and there are an abundance of grocery stores and specialty markets.

In addition to community events and festivals locals enjoy their choice of movies at local theaters. They are also conveniently located to theaters, concert arenas, famous attractions, and professional sports.

Residents of El Monte enjoy lovely neighborhoods, backyard barbecues, and a wide variety of convenient shopping, dining, and entertainment options. There are an abundance of parks that offer beautiful green spaces for picnics and fun as well as classes, activities, and athletic competitions. Welcome to friendly El Monte indeed.