14 Best Neighborhoods In Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city where dreams come alive, and every neighborhood whispers its own unique story. If you're seeking a city that never sleeps and caters to every taste, LA is your ultimate destination! From the iconic Venice Beach to the glamorous Hollywood, this blog aims to discover the charm of some of the finest Los Angeles neighborhoods, each complete with its own set of experiences. So let's dive right in, shall we?

About Los Angeles: Where Dreams Take Center Stage

Los Angeles is located between the Pacific Ocean and the San Gabriel Mountains. It has great geographic diversity and cultural values. Not just a hub for the entertainment industry, LA is also home to globally renowned institutions like the University of California (UCLA), University of Southern California (USC), and California Institute of Technology (Caltech), making it a great destination for academic excellence. Students can choose the best places in Los Angeles to live on the basis of their:

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1. Quality of Life - The quality of life in these Los Angeles neighborhoods is characterized by their diverse and inclusive communities, alongside access to various educational institutions and recreational opportunities, such as parks and hiking trails, which enhance both personal growth and social connection.

2. Environment- Students often seek respite from their busy schedules, looking for entertainment options and amenities that provide enjoyable recreational activities and opportunities to unwind, fostering a balanced lifestyle.

3. Livability- Affordability is a crucial factor for students when choosing a place to live, whether it involves accommodations, transportation, or everyday necessities, making it essential to find Los Angeles neighborhoods that offer accessible living conditions in the vibrant city of Los Angeles.

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There are several Los Angeles neighborhoods for people with different tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer laid-back feels or family-friendly environments, every neighborhood in Los Angeles has it all. So, let's move on to exploring some of the coolest neighborhoods in LA. 

Top 14 Best Neighborhoods In Los Angeles

Now that you know all that Los Angeles is about, it's time to explore some of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles. We have covered various aspects, including their types, nearest universities, the best modes of transportation available, and many more! Each Los Angeles neighborhoods has something exciting to offer to its residents, which is covered in this section!

1. Venice Beach

Type: Beachy and Bohemian

Best Modes of Transport: Biking and walking

Universities: University of Southern California (USC)

Best Known For: Venice Boardwalk, Muscle Beach, Venice Canals

Average Rent: $3,000-$3,500/month

Venice Beach is considered one of the best places to live in Los Angeles. It is an exciting fusion of art, surf, and eccentricity. You'll be enthralled to know that this Los Angeles neighborhood has an array of narrow canals that are connected by single-lane bridges. You will definitely see amazing canal-side homes and apartment duplexes. You can also look for student apartments near USC if you wish to live off-campus. Known for its spirit, street performers, and Muscle Beach, this Los Angeles neighborhood is a paradise for those seeking a laid-back atmosphere. Venice Beach is a fantastic place for students due to its mild weather, vibrant nightlife, diverse community, and abundant outdoor activities, making it an ideal environment for both relaxation and socializing.

2. Beverly Hills

Type: Luxurious and Upscale

Best Modes of Transport: Private cars

Universities: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Best Known For: Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills Hotel, Greystone Mansion and Park

Average Rent: $2,000-$2,500

Beverly Hills offers style, luxury, and couture. With streets full of trees, lavish estates, and high-end stores on Rodeo Drive and gorgeous places like Beverly Gardens Park, Beverly Hills is a neighborhood in LA that offers luxury living. Don't be surprised if you spot some popular stars having lunch in one of the exotic restaurants at Rodeo Drive. As one of the top neighborhoods in LA, it is home to some of the most well-known stars in the world, such as Jennifer Aniston, Taylor Swift, and John Legend. Beverly Hills offers students a luxurious lifestyle with its pleasant weather, upscale nightlife featuring trendy bars and restaurants, and access to beautiful outdoor activities in nearby parks and gardens, creating an inviting atmosphere for both relaxation and social engagement.

3. Silver Lake

Type: Trendy and Artsy

Best Modes of Transport: Biking and public transit

Universities: California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA)

Best Known For: Silver Lake Reservoir, Sunset Boulevard, The Silver Lake Flea Market

Average Rent: $2,000-$2,500

Silver Lake, one of the best areas to live in Los Angeles, is a great place for trendsetters. It has a range of things to do, vintage shops, and a fun nightlife scene. Those looking for a peaceful yet exciting atmosphere should definitely consider this one! You can relax by the Silver Lake Reservoir or hike the Silver Lake stairs. Right from stocking up groceries from the farmer's market to watching a Flamenco dinner show at EL Cid, this is one of the coolest neighborhoods in LA to live! Silver Lake is a vibrant neighborhood for students, known for its lively farmer's market, eclectic nightlife filled with music venues and bars, and a diverse array of restaurants offering culinary delights, all contributing to a dynamic social scene.

4. Santa Monica

Type: Beachy and Family-friendly

Best Modes of Transport: Biking and the Expo Line

Universities: Santa Monica College, Los Angeles

Best Known For: Carousels Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica State Beach

Average Rent: $3,500-$4,000

If you love the open waters, then Santa Monica is truly the best neighborhood in Los Angeles for you! From the well-known Santa Monica Pier to Third Street Promenade, this neighborhood in LA offers a blend of coastal charm, shopping delights, and a thriving culinary scene at restaurants like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and many others. You can plan visits to popular areas nearby like Venice, Brentwood, and more! Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier is a wonderful amusement park that will boost your adrenaline rush. Santa Monica is an ideal destination for students, featuring stunning beaches for relaxation and recreation, along with a wide variety of restaurants that cater to diverse tastes, creating a perfect blend of coastal living and vibrant dining experiences.

5. Echo Park

Type: Hip and Urban

Best Modes of Transport: Walking and rideshare

Universities: Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles

Best Known For: Echo Park Lake, Dodger Stadium, Echo Park Time Travel Mart

Average Rent: $2,000-$2,500

Home to the popular Dodger Stadium and Elysian Park, Echo Park is one of the best places to live in Los Angeles that offers an urban as well as bohemian vibe! Residents can find trendy coffee shops, retro bookstores, and the historic Echo Park Lake in this neighborhood. This is THE place to get your creative juices flowing! You should visit The Broad, a popular modern art museum that will give you a glimpse of the Los Angeles neighborhood's culture and amazing artifacts. Students can also visit popular food courts like the Grand Central Market while living in one of the best Los Angeles neighborhoods. Students love this place due to the variety of bookstores and recreational activities. 

6. Downtown LA

Type: Modern Urban Living

Best Modes of Transport: Metro and walking

Universities: University of Southern California (USC)

Best Known For: Culture Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad Museum, Grand Central Market

Average Rent: $2,500-$3,000

Downtown LA is truly one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Residents can find skyscrapers, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and the Arts District here, making it one of the most preferred Los Angeles neighborhoods. They will get to explore one of the best places to live in Los Angeles, from the popular tourist attractions to local hotspots. Downtown LA is a cultural hub for students, renowned for its thriving arts scene, which includes galleries, theaters, and museums, offering endless opportunities for inspiration and engagement with the creative community.

7. West Hollywood

Type: LGBTQ+ Friendly

Best Modes of Transport: Rideshare and walking

Universities: Several universities, including UCLA and USC

Best Known For: Sunset Strip, The Hollywood Walk of Fame, The Pacific Design Center

Average Rent: $3,000-$3,500

Popularly known for its inclusive atmosphere and lively nightlife, West Hollywood is one of the best neighborhoods in LA. Home to some of the popular clubs in Los Angeles, residents will explore some amazing music genres. Attending a live music fest should be on your list. Apart from these, The Sunset Strip, upscale boutiques, and the renowned West Hollywood Design District contribute to the welcoming vibe of this Los Angeles neighborhood. West Hollywood is a premier destination for students, celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and rich cultural scene, which includes renowned music venues, art galleries, and LGBTQ+ events, creating an exciting atmosphere for socializing and cultural exploration.

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8. Los Feliz

Type: Historic and Scenic

Best modes of Transport: Car and public transit

Universities: California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA)

Best Known For: weather Griffith Park, Los Feliz Village, The Greek Theatre

Average Rent: $2,000-$2,500

Just beneath the Hollywood Hills, Los Feliz is one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles, offering history and breathtaking views. The Griffith Observatory, theaters, and the lively Hillhurst Avenue create the perfect combination of culture and residential serenity. You'll come across several aesthetic cafes, diners, and shops, making it one of the places in Los Angeles to live for gastronomic adorers. Los Feliz is an excellent choice for students, offering a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking in Griffith Park and enjoying the scenic views from the Griffith Observatory, making it a perfect blend of nature and urban living.

9. Pasadena

Type: Suburban and Sophisticated

Best Modes of Transport: Car and public transit

Universities: California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Best Known For: The Huntington Library, Pasadena Playhouse, Norton Simon Museum

Average Rent: $2,800-$3,200

If you're looking for suburban elegance, then Pasadena is one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles for you. Home to the annual Rose Parade, it is one of the best places to live in Los Angeles. Pasadena is one of the most diverse Los Angeles neighborhoods you'll come across and is also popular for hosting a number of young professionals. Located only a few minutes away from Downtown LA, Pasadena offers an escape with a touch of sophistication. Pasadena is a great neighborhood for students and young adults, known for its family-friendly residential areas and beautiful weather, providing a welcoming and pleasant environment for both relaxation and community engagement.

10. Culver City

Type: Artsy and Innovative

Best Modes of Transport: Biking and public transit

Universities: Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles

Best Known For: Sony Pictures Studios, Culver City Arts District, The Culver Hotel

Average Rent: $3,000-$3,500

Culver City is one of the best areas to live in Los Angeles. It houses plenty of movie studios, which have transformed into an arts and innovation hub. The downtown area, arts scene, and the Helms Bakery District make Culver City one of the top neighborhoods in LA. Popular attractions like the Wende Museum will allow you to witness some amazing arts and artifacts from the Cold War era. Culver City is an appealing spot for students, renowned for its rich cultural offerings, including art galleries and film studios, along with a diverse selection of restaurants that provide a vibrant dining scene, fostering both creativity and culinary exploration.

11. Koreatown

Type: Diverse and Lively

Best Modes of Transport: Public transit and walking

Universities: University of Southern California

Best Known For: Koreatown Plaza, The Wiltern Theatre, Korean BBQ Restaurants

Average Rent: $3,000-$3,500

Koreatown is the best place for BTS or K-Drama fans! In addition to being one of the nicest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, it is also one of the best Los Angeles neighborhoods for authentic eateries and karaoke bars. This nicest areas in Los Angeles beautifully showcase Korea's global influence on LA's landscape. This Los Angeles neighborhood is an exciting destination for students, famous for its delectable Korean food, vibrant nightlife filled with trendy bars, and lively karaoke spots, creating a fun and immersive cultural experience.

12. Highland Park

Type: Trendy and Up-and-Coming

Best Modes of Transport: Biking and public transit

Universities: Occidental College, Los Angeles

Best Known For: Highland Park Bowl, The Old L.A. Zoo, Heritage Square Museum

Average Rent: $2,000-$2,500

Highland Park, one of the best places to live in Los Angeles, has an exciting arts scene and trendy boutiques. This is the best place to live in Los Angeles for those looking for a fast-paced and urban lifestyle. Being one of the most ancient neighborhoods, it is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Los Angeles, you will come across a very yet modern vibe throughout the area. Highland Park is a captivating neighborhood for students, celebrated for its unique architecture that blends historic charm with modern design, offering a visually stimulating environment that inspires creativity and exploration.

13. Westwood 

Type: Trendy and Academic

Best Modes of Transport: Biking and public transit

Universities: UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles)

Best Known For: UCLA Campus, The Hammer Museum, Westwood Village

Average Rent: $2,000 - $2,500

If you're seeking a vibrant atmosphere filled with youthful energy, then Westwood is one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles for you. Home to the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), this area buzzes with student life, making it a hotspot for young adults and academics alike. Westwood boasts a rich mix of cultural attractions, including theaters, museums, and diverse dining options, creating a lively environment for socializing and exploration. With its proximity to both the campus and various parks, Westwood offers a perfect balance of academic focus and leisure. Westwood is a nice neighborhoods in LA for students, known for its vibrant student life and rich cultural attractions, providing an engaging atmosphere filled with activities, events, and artistic experiences.

14. Larchmont Village

Type: Quaint and Community-Oriented

Best Modes of Transport: Walking and biking

Universities: Nearby options include Occidental College and Los Angeles City College

Best Known For: Larchmont Boulevard, The Los Angeles Public Library, The Magic Castle

Average Rent: $2,000 - $2,500

Larchmont Village is one of the best Los Angeles neighborhoods for you. Known for its charming streets and small-town feel, Larchmont Village is popular among young families and professionals seeking a friendly atmosphere. The area features a delightful array of boutique shops, cafes, and a weekly farmers' market, providing a sense of community that is hard to find in a bustling city. Hence is it indeed one of the best cities in LA. Its close-knit environment, combined with easy access to nearby attractions, makes Larchmont Village a delightful place to call home for those looking for a suburban escape in the heart of LA. Larchmont Village is a charming area for students, renowned for its delightful boutique shopping and diverse local dining options, creating a cozy atmosphere that encourages community engagement and exploration.

Los Angeles is one of the best places to live in the US and whether you're looking for lively nightlife, family-friendly parks, top universities in LA, or cultural hotspots, these good areas to live in Los Angeles have it all. Begin exploring any of these exceptional Los Angeles neighborhoods, and we guarantee that an unforgettable adventure awaits. Dive into the rich experiences, diverse cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere that each Los Angeles neighborhood offers, and you'll quickly understand why Los Angeles is such a great place to live.

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