Best Places to Live in Los Angeles
Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is a sprawling metropolis known for its diversity, entertainment industry, and endless opportunities. When it comes to choosing the best places to call home in this vast city, you’re in for a delightful exploration.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the top neighborhoods in Los Angeles, including Manhattan Beach, Ocean Park, Santa Monica, South Pasadena, and Beverly Hills. We’ll provide you with essential statistics, descriptions, fun facts, and insights for those considering a temporary or permanent move.
What are the Best Places to Live in Los Angeles
1. Manhattan Beach
Located in the southwestern part of Los Angeles County, Manhattan Beach is a picturesque coastal town that boasts a population of approximately 32,000 residents. Known for its stunning beachfront properties and a welcoming community, Manhattan Beach offers a median home value of around $3.9 million. The median household income is quite high at around $260,000, reflecting the affluence of the area.
Lifestyle and Amenities
This beachside paradise is perfect for those who crave an active lifestyle. With its beautiful beaches, cycling paths, and a charming downtown area filled with boutiques and restaurants, Manhattan Beach is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Living in Manhattan Beach offers a lifestyle of sheer convenience and coastal bliss.
Outdoor and Recreational Activities
Specific areas like the Sand Section provide direct access to pristine beaches, while the Tree Section offers serene tree-lined streets perfect for families.
The vibrant Downtown Manhattan Beach boasts an array of dining and shopping options, and the award-winning schools in the area ensure a top-notch education for your children. Plus, the laid-back yet active beach culture here makes it an idyllic spot for those seeking the best of Southern California living.
Looking to explore beyond Los Angeles? Check out our guide on the ‘10 Best Places to Live in California for Young Adults: Unveiling the Golden State’s Vibrant Opportunities’ for more exciting options across the state.
Fun Fact
The annual Manhattan Beach Open volleyball tournament is a major event that attracts top athletes from around the world, showcasing the town’s vibrant beach culture.
2. Ocean Park
Nestled in the heart of Santa Monica, Ocean Park is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood with a population of around 2,000 residents. Median home values in this area is $1.6 million, making it a desirable location for those seeking a coastal lifestyle. The median household income hovers around $144,000, reflecting the mix of residents in the area. Ocean Park is known for its artistic vibe and diverse community.
Outdoor and Recreational Activities
The neighborhood features colorful murals, street art, and a plethora of live music venues. It’s also home to the famous Santa Monica Pier, which offers an amusement park, an aquarium, and stunning ocean views. For those seeking a mix of creativity and beachside living, Ocean Park is an excellent choice.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Living in Ocean Park offers a unique blend of convenience and coastal charm. Specific areas like Main Street and Abbot Kinney Boulevard are the epitome of convenience, featuring an array of trendy boutiques, diverse dining options, and lively nightlife.
Community of ocean park
The proximity to the stunning Santa Monica Beach means you can enjoy a morning surf session, or a leisurely sunset walk just moments from your doorstep. Additionally, the neighborhood’s easy access to public transportation and bike-friendly streets make commuting a breeze, allowing you to effortlessly explore the vibrant city of Los Angeles.
Fun Fact
Once a competitor to the nearby Venice Beach. Both areas were developed around the same time, with Ocean Park focusing on attracting a more upscale clientele compared to the more bohemian and artistic atmosphere of Venice.
3. Santa Monica
With a population of approximately 93,000 residents, Santa Monica is one of the most iconic beachside communities in Los Angeles. The median home value in Santa Monica is around $2.3 million, and the median household income is roughly $100,000.
Outdoor and Recreational Activities
Santa Monica is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It boasts a scenic beach and a bustling downtown area. The city also offers a wide range of cultural experiences, including the renowned Getty Villa. The Montana Avenue district is renowned for its upscale shopping and dining, making it a shopper’s paradise.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Meanwhile, the Main Street area offers a vibrant mix of boutiques, cafes, and nightlife options, ensuring there’s always something exciting to explore. Lastly, the downtown district is the heart of Santa Monica, featuring cultural attractions, world-class dining, and easy access to the famous Santa Monica Pier. With its diverse neighborhoods and an abundance of amenities, Santa Monica truly caters to the preferences and convenience of its residents.
Fun Fact
Santa Monica is home to the world-famous Third Street Promenade, a bustling pedestrian shopping and entertainment hub.
4. South Pasadena
Situated in the western part of the San Gabriel Valley, South Pasadena is a charming suburban enclave with a population of around 25,000 residents. The median home value in this area is approximately $1.5 million, and the median household income is about $115,000.
Outdoor and Recreational Activities
South Pasadena is known for its excellent school system, making it a popular choice for families. The city boasts tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and a quaint downtown area filled with shops and cafes. Garfield Park and Arroyo Seco Park provide green spaces for recreation.
Lifestyle and Amenities
The Mission West district offers a unique blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. The Gold Line Metro station connects residents to downtown LA, making daily commuting a breeze. South Pasadena’s welcoming community and a slower pace of life make it a highly convenient and desirable place to call home.
Fun Fact
The iconic house from the movie “Halloween” is located in South Pasadena, attracting horror film enthusiasts.
5. Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is synonymous with luxury and prestige. With a population of around 30,000 residents, this upscale neighborhood offers some of the most exclusive real estate in Los Angeles. The median home value in Beverly Hills is approximately $6 million, and the median household income is over $104,000.
Outdoor and Recreational Activities
Beverly Hills is famous for its upscale shopping on Rodeo Drive, luxurious hotels, and celebrity sightings. The city’s palm-lined streets and beautiful parks add to its allure.
Lifestyle
Living in Beverly Hills is the epitome of luxury and convenience. The city’s iconic Rodeo Drive offers unparalleled shopping experiences, while exclusive neighborhoods like the Beverly Hills Flats boast stunning mansions and lush greenery.
Education and Amenities
Beverly Hills is also renowned for its top-notch schools, ensuring an excellent education for families. Moreover, its central location in Los Angeles provides easy access to the city’s cultural attractions and business hubs, making it the perfect blend of opulence and accessibility.
Fun Fact
Beverly Hills is home to the historic Greystone Mansion, which has been featured in numerous films and TV shows.
Specific Aspects of Los Angeles
Now, let’s explore some specific aspects of Los Angeles living to help you decide which neighborhood aligns best with your lifestyle.
Best Areas to Stay in Los Angeles
1. Venica Beach
- Known for its bohemian spirit and iconic boardwalk.
- Artsy community with unique shops, street performers, and a vibrant beach scene.
- Appeals to a creative and eclectic crowd.
2. West Hollywood
- Trendy and upscale area with a thriving nightlife scene.
- Sunset Strip offers world-class dining, entertainment, and shopping.
- Popular among young professionals and those seeking a vibrant urban lifestyle.
Best Cities in Southern California (SoCal)
1. San Diego
- Beautiful beaches, a thriving culinary scene, and diverse neighborhoods.
- Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and cultural attractions make it a well-rounded city.
2. Long Beach
- Coastal city with a diverse population and strong maritime influence.
- The historic Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, and scenic waterfront.
Best Neighborhoods for Young Professionals in Los Angeles
1. Los Feliz
- Artsy and diverse, with trendy bars and boutiques.
- Close to Griffith Park and the iconic Griffith Observatory.
2. Culvur City
- Booming arts district with a mix of creative offices and studios.
- Thriving restaurant scene and proximity to tech hubs.
3. Play Vista
- Known as “Silicon Beach” due to its concentration of tech companies.
- Modern living spaces and close to the beach.
Best Suburbs in Los Angeles for Families
1. Arcadia
- Excellent schools and a family-friendly atmosphere.
- The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden provide recreational opportunities.
2. Calabases
- Known for its suburban feel and gated communities.
- Family-oriented with parks, hiking trails, and community events.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Los Angeles is a city of endless possibilities, with each neighborhood offering a unique experience.
Whether you’re drawn to the coastal charm of Manhattan Beach, the artistic energy of Ocean Park, the prestige of Beverly Hills, the family-friendly vibe of South Pasadena, or the iconic allure of Santa Monica, there’s a perfect place for everyone in the City of Angels.
Choose your new home wisely and let the city’s vibrant culture and opportunities enrich your life, whether you’re here temporarily or permanently.
