Gardena

Gardena is a residential city in Los Angeles County in southwestern California, covering an area with several neighborhoods and commercial streets. The built environment ranges from single-family homes to smaller commercial spaces, crossed by wider traffic routes and quieter residential blocks.

The city was founded in September 1930 to secure local governance and lower taxes for residents compared to surrounding areas. In the following decades, families of Japanese descent settled here and established businesses after World War II, helping to shape the economic profile.

Japanese American communities have built deep roots here over generations, shaping the local landscape with small businesses, restaurants and cultural institutions. The presence of Japanese companies shows in daily life through bilingual signage and services, making the area accessible for both language groups.

Most city services can be handled online, making it easier to pay fees, obtain documents or submit applications. For in-person matters, weekday office hours are listed on the official website.

One part of the city holds a wetland preserve with native plants, maintained as a protected area providing habitat for different animal species. Despite the dense development around it, visitors can walk through this natural space and watch birds.

Location: Los Angeles County

Inception: 1930

Elevation above the sea: 15 m

Shares border with: Los Angeles, Torrance, Alondra Park, Hawthorne

Website: https://cityofgardena.org

GPS coordinates: 33.89361,-118.30778

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:42