Moving day tips unique to LA

Crucial Things to Know When Moving to LA for the First Time

Living in Los Angeles is like being part of a vast, sprawling, sun-kissed dream. With its roots deeply embedded in the entertainment industry, the city is a vibrant blend of cultures and lifestyles. The term ‘LA chill’ is not just a phrase, it’s a lifestyle choice. If LA were its own country, the glamor quotient would be off the charts.

However, beyond the palm tree-lined streets, the iconic Hollywood sign, and the endless summer, lies a city that demands a blend of patience and adventure to truly call home. It’s a place where the hustle is real, but the opportunities are boundless.

Whether you’re a budding actor, a tech enthusiast, an entrepreneur, or someone with a desire for the beach life, moving to LA can be both exciting and overwhelming. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through some of the early decisions and make your transition to this city of angels a little smoother.

Table of Contents

1. Choosing Your Neighborhood
2. Embracing the LA Vibe
3. The LA Cost of Living
4. Hunting for a Place to Live
5. The LA Rental Drill
6. Going with the social flow
7. Cruising Through the City

1. Picking Your Neighborhood

Selecting the right neighborhood in Los Angeles is pivotal to how much you’ll enjoy living in this diverse city. LA is a sprawling metropolis with a myriad of neighborhoods, each boasting its own unique vibe and lifestyle. The choice of neighborhood will not only impact your daily life but also the commute to your workplace or school, which is a significant consideration given LA’s infamous traffic. The city’s traffic tends to flow towards downtown in the morning and away from it in the evening, so planning your living situation accordingly can save you hours on the road. The diversity in LA is one of its strongest assets, with each pocket of the city offering its own unique slice of what makes LA an exciting and diverse place to live.

Here’s a brief overview of some of the main neighborhoods in LA:

• Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA): Downtown LA is a bustling hub known for its historical architecture, high-rise buildings, and cultural institutions. It’s home to the iconic Staples Center, numerous museums, and a burgeoning nightlife scene.
• Hollywood: Synonymous with the entertainment industry, Hollywood is rich in film and music culture. It’s home to the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and the iconic Hollywood Sign.
• Santa Monica: This neighborhood offers a blend of city and beach life. It’s known for its pier, upscale shopping, and proximity to the beach, making it a haven for those who love the sea.
• Venice: Known for its bohemian spirit, Venice is famous for its beach, the eclectic Venice Boardwalk, and the picturesque canals reminiscent of Venice, Italy.
• Silver Lake: This is a trendy neighborhood known for its indie music venues, organic coffee shops, and vintage boutiques. It’s a hipster haven with a lively arts and music scene.
• West Hollywood (WeHo): A trendy area known for its vibrant nightlife, stylish boutiques, and the historic Sunset Strip. It’s also a hub for the LGBTQ+ community in LA.
• Beverly Hills: Known for its luxury and prestige, Beverly Hills is synonymous with upscale shopping, classic architecture, and beautiful tree-lined streets.
• Pasadena: Situated a bit away from central LA, Pasadena offers a quieter, suburban environment with a rich cultural scene and is known for the annual Rose Parade and Rose Bowl football game.
• Culver City: A hub for film and television production, Culver City is home to Sony Pictures Studios and boasts a growing dining and nightlife scene.

2. Embracing the LA Vibe

Transitioning to Los Angeles is a unique adventure that presents a blend of opportunities and challenges for newcomers. The atmosphere in LA is generally laid-back yet bustling with creativity and innovation. The city’s sprawling nature lends itself to a car-centric lifestyle, which is a notable aspect of living here. Traffic is a daily reality, and having a reliable vehicle becomes essential to navigate the extensive metropolitan area.

The professional landscape in Los Angeles is diverse and dynamic. Whether you’re venturing into the entertainment industry, tech, or any other field, LA provides a fertile ground for your ambitions. Networking is crucial, and forming genuine connections can significantly impact your career trajectory. Casual meetings in sunlit cafes or during outdoor activities often lead to professional opportunities.

The pace of life may seem more relaxed compared to other major cities, but the drive for success is very much present. The city’s casual demeanor can sometimes disguise the serious business and professional endeavors unfolding every day.

The abundant green spaces, beaches, and hiking trails offer a chance to escape the urban hustle. Engaging in outdoor activities and exploring the city’s natural beauty are integral aspects of the LA lifestyle, providing a respite and a source of inspiration amidst the professional grind.

Living in Los Angeles also means embracing a culture that appreciates wellness, mindfulness, and an environmentally conscious lifestyle. The wellness trend is visible in the city’s many health food stores, yoga studios, and fitness centers that promote a healthy lifestyle.

3. The Real Cost of Living

Navigating the landscape of Los Angeles for the first time can be both an exhilarating and challenging experience, especially when it comes to the cost of living. The city is known for its high living costs, which are driven upward by its desirable weather, job opportunities, and lifestyle offerings. While not as pricey as cities like NYC, the cost of living in LA is still about 10-15% higher than the national average.

Housing is likely to be your largest expense. The real estate market in LA is competitive, with the demand for affordable housing far outpacing supply. While home ownership is a goal for many, the high prices often mean that renting is a more viable option for newcomers. Much like in NYC, the size and cost of apartments can be a shock especially if you are moving from a smaller city. Sharing a living space with roommates is a common practice to help offset the high rental costs and live in a desirable neighborhood.

The job market in LA is as diverse as its residents, but it’s also highly competitive. Many individuals work multiple jobs or have side hustles to cover their basic needs and enjoy some of the luxuries the city has to offer.

Grocery shopping in LA offers a range of options from budget-friendly stores like Trader Joe’s and Aldi, to more upscale options like Whole Foods and Gelson’s. Dining out can range from affordable food trucks and eateries, to high-end restaurants with celebrity chefs at the helm. The city’s culinary scene is vast and varied, and can be a foodie’s paradise.

California state has a progressive tax system and is among the higher tax rates in the country. Residents are subject to federal, state, and sometimes local taxes. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with California’s tax structure, and if you are moving for work, consider consulting with a tax advisor to understand the implications on your income.

Adjusting to the financial demands of LA might require a period of acclimatization. Setting a realistic budget, cutting back on non-essentials, and finding ways to increase your income are common strategies adopted by newcomers. Despite the high costs, many find the unique lifestyle, career opportunities, and cultural experiences that Los Angeles offers to be well worth the investment.

4. Hunting for a Place to Live

Embarking on the apartment hunt in Los Angeles, California, can be a thrilling yet demanding venture. The vast expanse of the city presents a broad but complex housing market to navigate. The peak rental season spans the summer months when the city is abuzz with newcomers and college graduates seeking to secure their new homes. However, finding that perfect abode might necessitate a blend of diligence, patience, and sometimes, swift decision-making given the competitive nature of the market.

Los Angeles has its own set of tenant laws designed to protect renters, which include regulations on rent control, security deposits, and habitability standards. It’s recommended to familiarize yourself with the tenant and landlord rights, as provided by the California Department of Consumer Affairs, to understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

The inventory of available housing does slightly fluctuate with the seasons, although the mild climate of LA makes moving a less seasonally constrained endeavor. The end and beginning of the month remain busy periods due to the typical monthly lease cycle.

When you finally zero in on an apartment, acting quickly is crucial since desirable units get snapped up fast. Have your documentation ready, including proof of income and references, to expedite the application process.

Communication with potential landlords or management companies from the outset is key. Inquire about the move-in procedures, any restrictions, and the availability of essentials like parking spaces or any provided amenities.

When the lease is signed and the move-in day approaches, coordinating with your moving company and the building management (if applicable) is crucial to avoid any hiccups. Booking elevators, understanding the allowed moving hours, and knowing the parking situation for the moving truck are all details that require attention.

5. The LA Rental Drill

Embarking on the rental journey in Los Angeles requires a mix of preparation, diligence, and quick action. Having all your paperwork in order before you start viewing apartments is crucial, as LA’s competitive housing market often means desirable properties are leased quickly. Ensure you have recent pay stubs, letters of employment, tax returns, bank statements, and referrals from previous landlords ready for submission.

The general rule for renting in Los Angeles is that your monthly income should be at least three times the monthly rent, though some landlords might require a higher income threshold. If meeting this requirement is a challenge, having a co-signer or guarantor may be necessary. There are also services that, for a fee, can act as a guarantor to help secure a lease.

Desirable properties at reasonable prices are often leased quickly, so it’s beneficial to act fast once you find a place that fits your needs. Chatting with the property manager or leasing agent to understand the application process and to gauge the level of interest on the property or unit can be helpful. While broker fees are not as common in Los Angeles as they are in some other cities, it’s still possible to encounter them, especially in high-demand areas. Some apartments may advertise as “no fee,” meaning the landlord covers the broker’s fee.

Many property management companies in LA list available rentals on their websites, allowing you to bypass broker fees by going direct. Websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Westside Rentals are useful platforms to explore the variety of housing options available and get a sense of the pricing across different neighborhoods.

The variety of housing styles in Los Angeles ranges from Spanish colonial style homes to modern condos and luxury apartments. Older buildings may offer lower rent, while newer or recently renovated properties with amenities like a gym, pool, or doorman command higher prices. It’s essential to weigh your budget against the amenities and location that are most important to you.

6. Going with the Social Flow 

Venturing into the expansive, vibrant realm of Los Angeles might evoke a sense of excitement tinged with decisions on what to make time for because of the city’s endless options and happenings across every social scene. From the historic allure of Downtown to the bohemian charm of Venice, every corner of LA presents a different facet of the city’s culture. Your weekends might quickly fill with plans to explore the iconic beaches, hike the scenic trails, or delve into the rich cultural and artistic scene.

The city is home to a plethora of museums like The Getty and Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), galleries, theaters, and music venues that host a variety of events year-round. The Hollywood Bowl, for instance, is an amphitheater venue like no other, offering a space to enjoy live music under the stars. The cultural tapestry of LA is enriched by its film festivals, music concerts, and art exhibitions that reflect the city’s role as a cradle of creativity.

While the car-centric nature of LA might limit spontaneous walks that are common in other cities, the exploration here often leads to unexpected discoveries like a hidden beach cove, a quaint cafe, or a vintage thrift shop. The city’s layout encourages planned adventures whether it’s a drive up the coast, a hike in the Malibu hills, or a bike ride along Venice Beach.

Even on a tight budget, LA provides a wealth of free or low-cost experiences. The city’s beautiful parks, beaches, and hiking trails are open for everyone. Free community events, outdoor concerts, and public art installations are commonplace, offering a chance to immerse in the city’s creative spirit without straining your wallet. Websites like Eventbrite or Meetup can be great resources to find local events and meet new people.

The casual yet transient nature of LA also means friendships might have a different flavor here. People from around the globe converge in this city of dreams, yet the turnover of residents is notable. Cherishing the connections made and the shared experiences, whether it’s a beach bonfire, a backyard barbecue, or a spontaneous road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, forms the essence of the LA social scene.

7. Cruising Through the City

Transitioning to life in Los Angeles involves adapting to a car-centric culture. In LA, having a personal vehicle isn’t just a convenience but often a necessity to navigate the sprawling cityscape punctuated by freeways and boulevards.

While Los Angeles does have a public transportation system, operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA, or LA Metro), the coverage may not be as extensive or convenient as what one might be accustomed to in cities like NYC with a more robust transit infrastructure. The LA Metro consists of buses and rail lines, with fares priced at $1.75 per ride or $7 for a day pass. TAP cards are used for fare payment, which can be topped up and used to tap in and out of the system.

However, the vast spread of the city and the often less-than-ideal transit schedules make owning a car a more appealing or necessary option for most residents. The experience of cruising down the iconic stretches like Sunset Boulevard or Pacific Coast Highway is part of the quintessential LA lifestyle. Yet, it’s essential to budget for the costs associated with car ownership including insurance, fuel, maintenance, and parking.

Parking in LA can be a challenge, especially in densely populated areas or during popular events. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the street parking rules to avoid fines or getting towed. Many apartments and workplaces also offer parking spaces, though they may come at an extra cost.

For those with children, having a car might simplify the logistics associated with school runs, extracurricular activities, and other family outings. Unlike some cities where children start using public transit at a young age, in LA, the car culture often extends to family logistics.

On days when you choose not to drive, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and provide a convenient alternative to driving. Biking is also an option, and LA has been gradually expanding its network of bike lanes and paths. Bike sharing programs like Metro Bike Share are available in certain parts of the city.

The culture of driving in LA is a hallmark of the city’s lifestyle. As a newcomer, integrating into this car-oriented culture is often part of the rite of passage, opening up the city’s neighborhoods and the broader Southern California (“SoCal”) region for exploration and discovery.

The first time you witness a breathtaking sunset over the Pacific, or the iconic Hollywood sign nestled among the hills, you’ll feel the allure of LA. Despite its challenges, such as high living costs and navigating through traffic, the city’s endless summer, vibrant community, and the blend of professional and personal growth opportunities make the venture worthwhile. Over time, the unique rhythm of Los Angeles becomes a familiar tune as you explore and make a place for yourself in this city of dreams.