<p>Newton,</p>
<p>Bias will inevitably enter into any discussion, but UCLA’s physics program is generally seen as top tier or right on the margin. UCI’s is on the margin at best, but probably closer to second tier. </p>
<p>If you feel that you’d rather commute, however, then commute. Just be aware of the fact that you might make your ability to get into a top PhD program more difficult. It might not sound fair, but name of undergrad does matter a bit when it comes to PhD admission, particularly when it comes to your recommendations.</p>