Seeking advice -- commute to Palmdale?

Hi all. I accepted a job offer in Palmdale and I'm trying to decide where to live. The commute from Santa Clarita sounds a little rough but I'm sure there's more to do on weekends than in AV. My budget is about $3k/month for a 2-3 bedroom.

Profile: 30 male, single, gay, enjoys city amenities but more of an outdoorsy guy than a nightlife kinda person

I've visited other parts of LA but not SC or Palmdale/Lancaster, so planning to take a trip soon to scope everything out. Just looking for some initial thoughts/opinions, especially if you do the commute yourself!