Los Angeles has a little of everything: sunny days, beach access, mountain views, and some of the best food in the country. Whether you’re here for the fashion, the film industry, or the slim chance of spotting someone famous, LA knows how to keep life interesting. Before making the move, look at the pros and cons of living in Los Angeles so you know what to expect:
Pros of living in Los Angeles:
- There’s a neighborhood for almost every lifestyle
- The weather is hard to beat
- You’ll never run out of things to do in Los Angeles
- The food and culture are major perks
- Career opportunities attract renters from all over
Cons of living in Los Angeles:
- Traffic is a part of daily life
- Public transit may not work for every renter
- Only some neighborhoods are walkable
- The cost of living hits hard
The Pros of Living in Los Angeles for Renters
There are a million reasons why living in LA is amazing, but like any other major metro area, it comes with tradeoffs. But don’t let that deter you as the appeal stretches across all parts of your life, from strong job markets to endless entertainment opportunities.
Pro: there’s a neighborhood for almost every lifestyle
The best part about LA is that every part of the metro area offers a different atmosphere, community, and opportunities. No two neighborhoods are alike, with some feeling laid-back and beachy while others lean urban and trendy. Renters have the flexibility and options to find an amazing neighborhood that suits their lifestyle.
Pro: the weather is hard to beat
For many renters, the weather is a major selling point. LA is known for its sunny days and mild climate, which makes it easier to enjoy outdoor activities year-round and pleasant to navigate daily life. Whether you like hiking, walking along the beach, dining outdoors, or just having more natural light in your Los Angeles apartment, the city delivers.
Pro: you’ll never run out of things to do in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has no shortage of attractions, entertainment, events, and outdoor activities. Renters can spend weekends at the beach, visit major landmarks, explore museums, catch a game, or hike in the hills. Beyond the well-known spots, there’s also plenty to discover in local neighborhoods. Weekend farmers markets are a popular way to start the morning before heading to a local favorite for lunch and browsing independently-owned boutiques.
Pro: the food and culture are major perks
In LA, diversity is not limited to festivals and major events, even though the city certainly knows how to celebrate it. It’s woven into everyday life through neighborhoods with strong cultural identities, long-time restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world, and local businesses that reflect the communities around them. Many renters move to LA to live in a city that embraces diversity.
Pro: career opportunities attract renters from all over
Los Angeles continues to be a highly sought-after city for renters because of its economic opportunities and cultural influence, especially in entertainment, media, fashion, hospitality, and other major industries. For renters relocating for work or for a bigger-city experience, LA is a place full of possibilities.
The Cons of Living in Los Angeles for Renters
Of course, living in Los Angeles also comes with challenges that renters should think through before making a move. A city this large and desirable often means higher costs, longer commutes, and tougher tradeoffs between location, space, and budget. While LA can be an exciting place to call home, understanding the downsides upfront can help you decide whether the lifestyle matches your needs and expectations.
Con: traffic is a part of daily life
LA is unfortunately known for having the worst traffic congestion nationwide. Even just a few miles can turn into an hour or more trip during rush hour. Though the time spent in the car isn’t ideal, it doesn’t deter people from living in LA.
Con: public transit may not work for every renter
Public transportation in Los Angeles is more developed than some people expect, but it still does not work equally well for every renter. The main system is LA Metro, which includes Metro Bus service and Metro Rail’s A, B, C, D, E, and K Lines. Even with those options, the size and sprawl of the LA metro area mean many residents still rely on a car for daily travel.
Con: only some neighborhoods are walkable
Some LA neighborhoods are more walkable than others, so renters who want to run errands or grab coffee on foot need to be intentional about where they live. Many still have to drive or take public transit to work, and meeting up with friends can be a hassle if they live across town. In a city this spread out, convenience often depends on how close you are to the places you go most.
Con: the cost of living hits hard
The cost of living in Los Angeles can be expensive, and rent is only part of the equation. Everyday costs like groceries, gas, parking, dining out, and entertainment can add up quickly, especially in more in-demand neighborhoods. While there are more affordable pockets of the city, renters often have to make tradeoffs between price, space, location, and convenience. Finding a place that fits your budget may take more time and flexibility, but for many renters, that extra effort is part of the process of making LA work.
Your Los Angeles Apartment Search Starts on Apartments.com
In Los Angeles, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to where you live, what you live near, and the kind of scenery you want to wake up to each day. Now that you know more about the pros and cons of living in LA, you can make a more confident decision about what matters most in your next home. When you’re ready to start the search, browse Apartments.com to explore listings, compare neighborhoods, and find a rental that fits your lifestyle and budget.
This article was originally published on January 18, 2019 by Megan Bullock.
