Choose the Right Los Angeles Neighborhood for You

Los Angeles is a melting point of cultures from all over the country and world. Oftentimes a Los Angeles neighborhood reflects a rainbow of diversity, and there’s a lot of neighborhood hopping in this sprawled-out city where heavy traffic is simply a way of life. Where you’ll want to live depends on why you are here and what parts of the city you plan on working and playing in.

Area Codes

Some observe that L.A. is divided by its varying area codes. The area code 323 includes Hollywood and the Mid-Wilshire area (south of Hollywood). The 213 area code includes downtown Los Angeles, Koreatown and other surrounding neighborhoods. Beverly Hills, Santa Monica and other west side neighborhoods are covered by the 310 area code. The 424 area code covers western L.A. as well. The area code 818 is generally used for the San Fernando Valley; locals simply call it “the valley.” When getting your cell phone, you’ll want to match it to your area for easier neighborhood identification.

Hollywood

Hollywood is the most well-known neighborhood in Los Angeles, but it’s actually a nitty-gritty one for large parts of it. The areas east of Mann’s Chinese Theater near the corner of Hollywood and Highland have gone through a period where it was run-down, but the development of businesses like the Arclight Theater on Sunset and Vine have helped liven up the neighborhood. You can get a cheaper place in Hollywood, and it’s a classic town for actors new to town who want to be a part of this historic city.

Beach Cities

Santa Monica is known for the Third Street Promenade, an outdoor strip of eateries and shops only three blocks from the Pacific Ocean. It’s a very expensive place to live. Venice is cheaper than Santa Monica, but residing near the beach can still get expensive. Some neighborhoods in Venice are safe, and others aren’t. Marina Del Ray is somewhat between Venice and Santa Monica as far as price range. Malibu is sometimes called Beverly Hills by the sea. It’s too expensive for most people to afford, but it’s a quick commute to Malibu’s Zuma Beach if you opt to live in Santa Monica.

The San Fernando Valley

The valley is where you’ll want to stay if you are low on funds and have a car. Even if money is tight, do not move to the valley unless you have a car. Public transportation in Los Angeles is a nightmare where it exists. There is very little public transportation accessible to many parts of the valley. However, you can get an apartment in the valley for around half of what it would cost in main areas of Los Angeles. When compared to the richer neighborhoods, it’s only a fraction of the cost. There are nice and not-so-nice parts of the valley so make sure to spend time in a neighborhood before choosing to reside within it.

Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles has been in a constant state of restoration for years. It’s still being improved, and its adjacent neighborhoods are seeing a resurgence. You’ll want to opt to live downtown if you are low on funds, yet don’t have a car. Opt to live in a place near plentiful public transportation, which are many downtown areas.