Moving to LA? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
A City Like No Other
Los Angeles isn’t just a city—it’s a collection of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own energy, culture, and pace. Whether you’re drawn to the creative pulse of the Eastside, the relaxed charm of Pasadena, or the ocean breeze in Santa Monica, finding the right place to land is about more than just square footage.
As someone who has lived all across LA’s many pockets, I know firsthand that where you live shapes how you experience the city. I help clients not just find a house, but a community that feels like home.
Why People Move to LA
Los Angeles continues to attract people from all over the world—and for good reason.
✔ A Thriving Job Market – LA is home to major industries, from entertainment and tech to fashion, media, and aerospace. If you're relocating for work, you'll be in good company.
✔ Year-Round Sunshine – The weather is actually as good as they say. No more shoveling snow or planning your life around extreme seasons.
✔ Lifestyle & Culture – Whether you're into world-class dining, art, hiking, or music, there’s something for everyone. The city is as dynamic as the people who live here.
✔ Space & Variety – From hillside retreats to beachfront bungalows to walkable city blocks, LA offers a level of diversity that few cities can match.
✔ Great Schools & Family-Friendly Neighborhoods – If you’re moving with kids, there are fantastic public and private school options, plus family-friendly communities that offer space, safety, and a strong sense of belonging.
Where Should You Live?
Choosing the right neighborhood can be the hardest part of relocating. With LA’s sprawling landscape and wildly different communities, it helps to have someone who knows the nuances of each area.
Some of the most popular areas for newcomers include:
Los Feliz & Silver Lake – Walkable, creative, full of independent coffee shops, boutiques, and historic homes.
Pasadena & Sierra Madre – A mix of old-world charm and modern convenience, with stunning architecture and a tight-knit community feel.
Arcadia & San Marino – Spacious homes, top-rated schools, and a quieter suburban feel while still close to the city. I grew up in Arcadia and San Marino, so I know these areas inside and out.
Burbank & Toluca Lake – A relaxed pace, great schools, and an easy commute to entertainment industry hubs.
West Hollywood & Beverly Grove – Central, stylish, and packed with top-tier dining, shopping, and nightlife.
Santa Monica & Venice – Coastal living at its best, with walkable streets, great food, and unbeatable ocean views.
The Eastside (Highland Park, Eagle Rock, Mount Washington) – A blend of historic homes and modern renovations, with a thriving food and art scene.
Studio City & Sherman Oaks – A balance of urban convenience and suburban ease, with tree-lined streets and plenty of space.
The Hills (Hollywood Hills, Laurel Canyon, Los Feliz Oaks) – Private, scenic, and home to some of the most iconic architecture in LA.
One of my favorite things to do with clients is take them to a local favorite spot—whether it’s a coffee shop, a quiet park, or a hidden-gem restaurant—so they can get a feel for the neighborhood beyond just the real estate. If you're moving here, I want you to love not just your home, but the community you’re becoming a part of.
What You Need to Know Before Moving to LA
✔ LA is Big—Like, Really Big. Unlike other major cities, LA isn’t built around a central downtown—it’s a sprawling collection of neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe. The good news? There’s truly something for everyone. The challenge? Finding the right fit.
✔ Your Commute Will Define Your Experience. People joke about LA traffic for a reason. Where you live should be based not just on what you love, but on how often you’ll need to be somewhere. A 10-mile drive can mean 20 minutes or an hour depending on the time of day.
✔ Lifestyle Matters Just as Much as Housing. Are you looking for a vibrant social scene, a quiet escape, or something in between? LA offers everything from bustling city life to peaceful, tree-lined retreats. The right neighborhood will fit your pace, not just your budget.
✔ The Market Moves Fast. LA real estate is competitive, whether you’re buying or renting. Having someone who knows the landscape (and has the right network) can make all the difference.
✔ There’s No Right or Wrong Answer. Choosing a place to live in LA isn’t about finding the best neighborhood—it’s about finding the best one for you. I’m here to help you figure that out.
Let’s Make LA Feel Like Home
Relocating can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re thinking about making the move, let’s talk—I’ll help you navigate the process, explore different neighborhoods, and make sure you land in a place that feels like home.
And if you want to get a head start, sign up below to get my free LA Foodie Guide—because one of the best ways to get to know this city is through its food.
