Los Angeles is a captivating city that draws people from diverse backgrounds. As the second-largest city in the United States by population, it offers a vibrant tapestry of cultures, an unparalleled quality of life, and abundant opportunities for anyone seeking a fresh start or a change of pace.
With its rich tapestry of neighborhoods, each boasting a unique character and charm, Los Angeles presents a wide array of options for anyone seeking to call this city home.
From trendy enclaves brimming with energy to upscale communities exuding elegance, the neighborhoods in Los Angeles cater to every lifestyle and preference imaginable.
Whether you’re a young professional chasing your dream career, or just someone looking for a quiet neighborhood to settle down in during retirement, this city has got you covered. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles.
North Hollywood, Ca
Located in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, North Hollywood is a bustling and dynamic community that offers a mix of housing options, from cozy apartments to spacious single-family homes.
With a median home value of around $700,000 and an average rent of $2,200 for a two-bedroom apartment, this neighborhood strikes a balance between affordability and convenience.
Apart from that, the relatively low crime rate, with violent crime and property crime rates well below the national averages, makes North Hollywood a haven for families and young professionals alike.
Moreover, the neighborhood boasts a thriving healthcare system, with several reputable hospitals and medical centers, ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for residents.
Glendale, Ca
Glendale is located right at the heart of Los Angeles County. Known for its luxurious housing options like luxury apartments and large stately homes, this neighborhood doesn’t come cheap.
The median home value is around $900k with an average rent being about $2.7k per month (for just a two-bedroom apartment). But why? Why do people pay so much to live here? The low crime rate can explain the high prices.
Violent and property crime rates remain well below national averages. The city also boasts excellent healthcare facilities like Glendale Memorial Hospital and Health Center ensuring that residents have access to top-notch medical care.
While the overall cost of living exceeds the national average, a strong sense of community and a high socioeconomic status make Glendale more than worth it for those seeking affluent lifestyles.
Santa Monica
With its iconic sandy beachfront and calm, relaxed atmosphere, Santa Monica is a coastal gem that attracts people from all walks of life. Whether you're looking for a cozy apartment or a luxury beach home, this desirable community offers a range of homes at different price points.
The average home value in Santa Monica is about $1.5 million, while the average rate for a two-bedroom apartment is roughly $3,500. Both are on the pricier side because of the high demand and the sought-after beachfront location.
However, Santa Monica is one of the safest places in Los Angeles, as both violent and property crime rates fall below national averages.
The neighborhood also boasts top-notch healthcare with institutions like UCLA Medical Center, and Santa Monica right down the street.
Combining its picturesque setting with vibrant social spaces and recreational opportunities galore makes it an ideal place to call home for those looking to experience true coastal living.
Beverly Hills
When you imagine luxury and wealth, Beverly Hills should be what comes to mind. Here you’ll find upscale shopping districts like Rodeo Drive, fine dining establishments, and plenty of celebrity sightings—some even call it "the most luxurious neighborhood in America."
With stately mansions and high-end condominiums being the norm here, housing options cater well to those with deep pockets.
The median home value in Beverly Hills hovers around $3.5 million. But if you’re considering renting instead of buying, expect to pay an average monthly rental fee of between $4K and $5K for a two-bedroom apartment.
Another thing residents love about this neighborhood is its security: violent crimes are very rare here compared to other parts of Los Angeles.
In addition to all that money sloshing around this exclusive enclave’s borders, Beverly Hills hosts some of L.A.’s best hospitals as well.
So don’t worry about finding good medical care nearby when you’re in a pinch. People from all over the globe are attracted to the area’s luxurious lifestyle and world-class amenities but you must be prepared to spend big if you want to live here.
Pasadena
Pasadena is a picturesque and historic city that exudes sophistication and charm. Known for its stately homes, tree-lined streets, and world-class cultural attractions, this neighborhood offers a range of housing options, from cozy bungalows to grand estates.
The median home value in Pasadena is around $1.1 million, while the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,900, reflecting the desirability and exclusivity of this neighborhood.
While housing costs are high compared to the national average, Pasadena boasts a low crime rate, creating a safe and secure environment for residents.
Besides, this neighborhood is home to excellent healthcare facilities, such as Huntington Hospital, ensuring residents have access to top-notch medical care.
Pasadena's strong sense of community, rich cultural offerings, and well-regarded educational institutions make it an ideal choice for families and those seeking a well-rounded lifestyle steeped in history and tradition, albeit at a premium price point.
Los Feliz
Though it can't match Beverly Hills' glitz and glamor, Los Feliz offers something different: a charming, quirky atmosphere that blends urban living with a laid-back vibe.
The neighborhood's diverse housing options range from cozy bungalows to spacious Spanish-style homes and make it accessible to a wider variety of budgets than other parts of Los Angeles.
The average home value in Los Feliz is about $1.2 million. For those looking for rental options instead, expect to pay an average monthly rate of $2,800 for a two-bedroom apartment.
Though the cost of living in Los Feliz slightly exceeds the national average, residents do have one major benefit: their safety. Violent and property crime rates are both quite low in this community compared to others around L.A.
Rounding out the neighborhood's benefits are its modern healthcare facilities like Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and vibrant social scene with shops and restaurants suited for every taste. This ensures everyone can find their niche in Los Feliz’s dynamic environment.
Culver City
Culver City is a bustling, commercial neighborhood that has become a mecca for tech companies and digital media firms. With its sleek office buildings, modern amenities, and trendy eateries, this area offers a range of housing options, from high-end apartments to contemporary lofts.
The median home value in Culver City is around $1 million, while the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,800. While these costs are high compared to national averages, they reflect the growing demand for this neighborhood.
However, Culver City boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Los Angeles County, with violent and property crime rates below the national average. Additionally, the neighborhood’s robust healthcare system ensures residents have access to quality medical care at institutions like Southern California Hospital Culver City.
Culver City’s rapidly expanding creative sector, and proximity to major freeways and public transit hubs — such as L.A.’s Metro Expo Line — make it an attractive option for young professionals working in entertainment or technology.
Moreover, its lower-than-average housing costs create an appealing blend of affordability and livability that can be hard to find elsewhere in L.A.
Westlake
Westlake is a densely populated immigrant community just west of downtown Los Angeles. Known primarily for its affordable housing stock and burgeoning food scene, this neighborhood offers a range of low-cost housing options to meet the needs of its diverse population.
The median home value in Westlake is around $500k making it one of LA's most affordable neighborhoods, while the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,700 per month.
These figures – which are significantly below national averages – make Westlake an attractive option for those looking to live close to downtown without breaking the bank.
Unfortunately, Westlake has some downfalls with some being that It has relatively high crime rates compared to other areas on this list, with violent crimes occurring more than twice as often within the neighborhood than they do nationwide.
Additionally, the lack of green space in Westlake makes it difficult for residents to exercise and enjoy outdoor activities.
However, those looking to access medical care won’t have to travel far. Within walking distance, there is Good Samaritan Hospital, one of the downtown’s largest healthcare facilities.
Overall, Westlake’s affordability and central location make it an ideal choice for low-income residents who want to live close to the urban center without sacrificing convenience or breaking their budget.
Westwood
Westwood is the home to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). With its mix of student housing, upscale apartments, and stately homes, this area offers a range of housing options to cater to various budgets and lifestyles.
While housing costs in Westwood are higher than the national average, the neighborhood boasts a low crime rate, providing residents with a sense of security.
Westwood is also home to world-class healthcare facilities, ensuring residents have access to top-notch medical care.
The neighborhood's vibrant cultural scene, which is heavily influenced by the university's presence, makes it an attractive option for students, academics, and professionals alike, albeit at a premium price point.
Silver Lake
Silver Lake is a trendy, artsy neighborhood that’s the home sweet home for creative types and young professionals.
As vibrant as it is visually pleasing, this part of town intertwines vintage charm with modern amenities. When hunting for housing options here, you’ll be thrilled to find everything from cozy apartments to revamped bungalows.
The cost to own a property here is just south of $1 million on average. But if renting sounds more your style, expect to pay around $2,700 monthly for a two-bedroom apartment.
On the positive side, residents enjoy relative safety in Silver Lake. Rates of violent crime and property crime are below the national average. Additionally, there are plenty of top-notch institutions built up around here.
Conclusion
Los Angeles is a city that offers an unparalleled quality of life, with its diverse neighborhoods catering to every taste and preference.
Whether you're seeking a vibrant urban lifestyle, a laid-back coastal vibe, or a luxurious and exclusive enclave, the City of Angels has something to offer for everyone.
However, it's crucial to carefully consider your budget and priorities when choosing a neighborhood that aligns with your lifestyle and financial means, as many of the most desirable areas come with a premium price tag.
If you're planning to relocate to Los Angeles, one important aspect to keep in mind is the logistics of the move itself.
California is a vast state, and moving across long distances can be a daunting task, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
This is where hiring a reputable moving company can make all the difference. Professional moving companies in California are well-versed in navigating the state's intricate network of highways and neighborhoods, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition.
Moreover, moving companies in California are equipped to handle all types of moves, from small apartments to large family homes. They have the necessary expertise and equipment to safely transport.
