There are many pros and cons of moving to Los Angeles – LA is a sprawling metropolis and an iconic travel destination. The city is home to nearly four million residents with an extremely broad range of interests and preferences. Outdoorsy people can experience everything from its pleasant Mediterranean climate and famous beaches to its rugged mountains and enchanting deserts. But LA is perhaps best known for the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and the entertainment industry, which is considered unrivalled worldwide.
Accommodation in Los Angeles
+ PRO: Wide range of options
Los Angeles offers a diverse array of accommodation options to suit any preference and lifestyle. From luxurious apartments in downtown LA to cosy bungalows in quieter neighbourhoods like Echo Park or Silver Lake, there's something for everyone. The city's vast size means you can choose between the bustling city centre, serene beachfront properties, or the more laid-back suburban life, each offering its unique perks and amenities.
- CON: Accommodation is expensive
Accommodation costs in Los Angeles are significantly higher than in many other parts of the United States. The high demand for housing in popular areas drives up rent and purchase prices, making it challenging for newcomers to find affordable housing. Budgeting carefully and being flexible with your location choice can help mitigate this, but be prepared for the reality of higher housing costs.
+ PRO: Investment opportunities
The Los Angeles property market has historically shown strong growth, making it an attractive option for property investors. Whether you're looking to buy a property as a long-term investment or considering buying to let, LA's housing market offers potential for capital appreciation, especially in up-and-coming neighbourhoods. Conducting thorough research and consulting a real estate expert can uncover some promising opportunities.
Best Areas and Suburbs in Los Angeles
Renting Accommodation in Los Angeles
Lifestyle in Los Angeles
+ PRO: Progressive and diverse culture
Los Angeles is known for its progressive thinking, with a diverse population to match. The city's people are constantly at the forefront of social issues like climate change, LGBTQ+ rights, and cannabis legalisation.
The mix of cultures in the city also brings with it a vibrant, diverse and high-quality food scene, with specific neighbourhoods providing a wide selection of ethnic food options, from Ethiopian, Japanese, and Persian to good old-fashioned American diners.
+ PRO: The great outdoors
The hot weather means Los Angeles is perfect for nature enthusiasts who can enjoy the city's offerings of gorgeous mountains, beaches, and deserts year round. For those who want to ease into their outdoor routine, a relaxing day at Griffith Park in the Santa Monica Mountains would be perfect, and there are also luxurious hot springs in the city and surrounding areas.
LA's beaches speak for themselves, with famous spots like Malibu, Long Beach, and Venice Beach all waiting to be explored. The city is also synonymous with surfing, with Topanga, Hermosa, and Manhattan beaches all boasting world-famous breaks.
- CON: The city can feel overwhelming
Los Angeles is one of the largest cities in the United States and covers a huge area. The geographical vastness is equalled by the spread of cultural offerings. In LA, it can be difficult to see the forest because of the trees – finding a community that suits you isn't always easy. Having some established connections in the city can help. Lean on any local friends you have to feel settled more quickly.
Cost of living in Los Angeles
- CON: LA is extremely expensive
California, as a whole, is a pricey state to live in, and LA is no exception. Fast food, alcoholic beverages, and accommodation and fuel prices are all high. Steep fuel prices are even more of an issue, considering the large amount of driving involved in traversing the incredibly spread-out city.
+ PRO: Public transport is cheap
The cost of public transport in Los Angeles is a welcome respite from the high cost of living. Those who use metro trains and buses regularly benefit from capped fares – when you reach the daily or weekly limit, you won't have to pay for any subsequent trips.
Getting around in Los Angeles
- CON: Significant traffic congestion
Los Angeles is potentially just as renowned for its traffic as it is for being a celebrity hotspot. Indeed, congestion becomes a part of daily life when living in the City of Angels, with many residents spending north of 100 hours a year in traffic jams. Drivers can also forget about easy parking, as spaces are extremely limited.
- CON: Public transport reach isn't comprehensive
The coverage of the public transport system in LA could be better; much of this stems from a lack of demand, as the vast majority of commuters drive. While there are plans in the works to expand the Los Angeles Metro Rail System, new arrivals should not expect relief from car dependency any time soon.
+ PRO: Cycling and walking infrastructure is growing
LA is ranked among the top 10 most walkable cities in the USA. Walking and cycling are feasible ways of getting around in Los Angeles, although doing so largely depends on whether you're lucky enough to stay close to your workplace. For those interested in the recreational side of cycling, there are plenty of bike-rental services operating in the city.
Working in Los Angeles
+ PRO: Diverse job market
Opportunities can be found in nearly every sector for those looking to work in Los Angeles. Vacancies abound in everything from IT to logistics, though the city's main draw lies in its entertainment, fashion, and service industries. Start-ups are well supported, and those in hospitality also enjoy competitive salaries.
- CON: High competition for jobs
While business is booming and there is a rich array of employers, the city also has one of the most competitive job markets in the country. This professional cut and thrust means newcomers must be prepared to work hard to grow in their careers. Getting a job in the first place might be pretty straightforward, but climbing to the higher salary echelons requires graft.
Education in Los Angeles
+ PRO: Broad selection of schooling options
If you're moving to Los Angeles with children, you'll benefit from a vast range of schooling options. There are plenty of free-to-attend public schools, including renowned charter and magnet schools. Private schools with alternative or religious teaching methodologies are also available. International schools that offer, among other curricula, the International Baccalaureate (IB), British, and French systems round off LA's schooling options.
Education and Schools in Los Angeles
Weather in Los Angeles
+ PRO: Pleasant climate
The sunny skies of California mean the weather in Los Angeles is generally lovely, making its scenic beauty even more of a pleasure to live in. While the temperatures can get quite high, it's typically comfortably warm. With its Mediterranean climate, LA's summers are hot and dry, while winters tend to be colder and wetter.