It is no secret or surprise that Los Angeles is one of the most coveted cities to live in the country. After all, nearly 15 million people can’t be wrong. With a subtropical-Mediterranean climate that typically only sees precipitation an average of 35 days per year, the weather alone is reason enough to move. Add in a strong economy, gorgeous beaches, incomparable shopping opportunities, a rich cultural scene, and an endless selection of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, and you have a city nearly anyone can be happy living in. Now you just need to find an apartment, along with the rest of everyone else chasing their dream to Tinsel Town.
Sources
- Craigslist – Like anywhere else in the country, Craigslist is one of the most popular platforms used by renters and landlords. If you are not familiar with the area, you should at least, figure out what neighborhoods you would like to live in, and which you want to stay away from. Check the location of a listing on a map and make sure it is not in one of your “no” areas before you bother calling, emailing, or going to look at it. Craigslist is a great source to use to find a roommate too.
- West Side Rentals – Creating an account with West Side Rentals is an absolute must. It focuses primarily on rentals in Los Angeles, San Diego, Santa Monica, San Francisco, and surrounding areas.
- Print – You can pick up an “Apartment Guide” for free at most grocery stores, or you can splurge on a “Los Angeles Times.” If you get to a café early, you might get lucky and snag a table someone has left their newspaper at.
- Drive or Walk – Understand that many apartments are snatched up as fast as they empty. So, quite often, landlords do not have a chance to even list them. Driving through the neighborhood and looking for rental signs in lofts, apartment complexes, etc., is the best way to find one. If you are looking in the downtown area, park your car and walk. Weekend mornings are the ideal time to watch for moving trucks. Be prepared to jump in on a place, if you find one open.
Recommended Neighborhoods
There are a few extremely expensive neighborhoods filled with million-dollar houses and billion-dollar views. These are nice places to explore on your day off, but you likely will not find many affordable rentals available. Stick with areas with a high population of renters, but also, make sure the neighborhood you choose is safe.
- Miracle Mile – Perfect for couples and families, as the area is relatively quiet at night. It is close to the 10 freeway, and there are a ton of duplexes for rent with yard space if you prefer this type of rental over an apartment.
- West Hollywood – On the positive side, there are a ton of apartments. On the negative side, they are mostly clustered quite close, and the area can be loud. This might be a good option to get you started in the city though. You can navigate this neighborhood easily on foot, and there is an abundance of restaurants and stores.
- Culver City – There are a lot of young professionals and small families here. Culver City has a fun nightlife. Traffic can be brutal during rush hour near Pico and Olympic though.
- Westwood – There is an excellent school district here, and the neighborhood is close to the 405 for your morning commute.
- Orange County – You really cannot go wrong with anywhere in the OC. This area includes Huntington Beach, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, Lake Forest, Newport Beach, and other trendy areas.
- The Valley – This is a relaxed atmosphere and there is plenty of parking in this suburban area. North Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, Toluca Lake, and Burbank are here.
Once you find that perfect place to call your new home, you’ll need movers to help you move in. Check out the best movers in Los Angeles to help you with your move.
