What are the Best Neighborhoods In Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of those cities that never stops surprising you. Every street carries a different energy, every block offers something new, and every neighbourhood has its unique personality. People come here for opportunities, sunshine, and creativity, yet choosing the right place to live often becomes the biggest challenge. The truth is simple, exploring the best neighbourhoods in Los Angeles helps you understand where you will feel at home, grow, and connect with people who match your lifestyle.

Finding the right neighbourhood also raises important questions that many newcomers ask:

• Which neighbourhoods in Los Angeles are safest?
• Where do students and young professionals live comfortably?
• Which areas are best for families?
• What neighbourhoods offer the perfect mix of fun, culture, and affordability?
• How can I find roommates who fit my values so living in LA becomes easier?

Platuni gives you the clarity you need. This page helps you discover the best neighbourhoods in Los Angeles, understand what each area offers, and get practical guidance on choosing a place that matches your lifestyle and budget. You also get access to Platuni’s smart roommate-matching tools, rent management features, and co-living support, everything you need to settle into Los Angeles with confidence.

Also Read: How To Find Roommates In Boston | Top 10 Apps

Average Cost of Living in the Best Neighborhoods In Los Angeles

Here are typical monthly costs for living in Los Angeles, broken down by major categories. These are estimates; your actual cost may vary depending on which particular neighbourhood you choose, how many roommates you have, and your lifestyle.

#1. Housing / Rent

• A 1-bedroom apartment in central or desirable LA neighbourhoods (like Downtown or Santa Monica) can cost around US$2,170–3,200/month.
• Rent for rooms (shared housing) is much more affordable, depending on location and how many people share.

#2. Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water, Internet)

• Average basic utilities cost: US$95–140/month for electricity and gas.
• Internet bills can range: US$110–210/month (depending on speed and provider)
• According to another source, a typical monthly utility cost (electric + water + gas + internet + trash) is roughly US$320–375.

Also Read: 10 Best Roommate Matching App in the US

#3. Food & Groceries

• Monthly grocery costs: US$350–900, depending on how much you cook and where you shop.
• Dining out is also more expensive in LA: a cheap meal costs around US$25, while a mid-range restaurant meal for two is around US$110.

#4. Transportation

• Public transport (metro + bus): $1.75 per ride, and a monthly pass is about US$79 (depending on the zone).
• If you own a car, costs can be very high: fuel, insurance, and parking add up significantly.

#5. Total Monthly Cost for a Single Person

• According to Amber Student, a realistic monthly budget (including rent, utilities, food, transport, and extras) is US$3,000–4,500 for a single person in LA.
• LivingCost.org puts the average cost of living (with rent) for one person in LA at US$3,361/month.

Also Read: Affordable Coliving in San Francisco | Best Places to Live

What This Means for Platuni Users

• Using Platuni to find roommates can dramatically reduce your cost of living, especially in the most expensive neighbourhoods in LA, because you can split rent, utilities, and internet.
• Platuni’s bill-splitting and chore-management tools make shared living more predictable and fair. You don’t have to worry about unexpected utility spikes or who pays what.
• If you’re relocating to LA (student, early career, or just moving), knowing these cost benchmarks helps you set a realistic budget, and Platuni gives you the platform to find people and neighbourhoods that match both your lifestyle and your wallet.

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What are the Best Neighborhoods In Los Angeles

#1. Santa Monica

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is famous for its beach, pier, and sunny lifestyle. Many people choose this area for the seaside parks, good restaurants, and easy access to the ocean. Young professionals and students like the mix of outdoor fun and work options, while families enjoy safe streets and good schools. Platuni helps you find roommates who love an active, beach-first life so you can share rent and still enjoy Santa Monica without the stress. This area ranks high among the best neighborhoods Los Angeles for people who want sun, sand, and convenience.

Also Read: Affordable Coliving in Chicago | Best Places to Live

#2. Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills is known for luxury homes, high-end shops, and quiet tree-lined streets. Residents find top restaurants, exclusive boutiques, and peaceful neighborhoods for walking and relaxing. Professionals who value comfort and privacy often choose Beverly Hills for its calm and prestige. Platuni makes it simple to match with roommates who share similar standards, helping you afford a better living situation without sacrificing lifestyle. This neighborhood stands out as one of the best neighborhoods Los Angeles for upscale living and safety.

#3. West Hollywood (WeHo)

West Hollywood

West Hollywood is a lively area with great nightlife, trendy cafes, and strong community energy. Creative people and young professionals enjoy the art scenes, live music, and walkable streets. The neighbourhood offers a mix of apartments and condos that suit people who want both fun and convenience. Platuni connects you to roommates who match your social life and values, helping you find balance between going out and coming home to a peaceful place. West Hollywood is a top pick among the best neighborhoods Los Angeles for social life and culture.

Also Read: How Much Rent Can I Afford in NYC | NYC Rent Calculator

#4. Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)

DTLA

Downtown Los Angeles has changed a lot and now offers modern living, tall condos, and busy business districts. This area puts you close to work, transit, theatres, and many food options. People who like city energy and short commutes find DTLA very practical. Platuni helps you find roommates who fit a fast-paced lifestyle and who will share chores and bills fairly, so city living stays smooth. DTLA ranks as one of the best neighborhoods Los Angeles for convenience and city living.

#5. Silver Lake

Silver lake

Silver Lake is known for its relaxed vibe, indie shops, and scenic reservoir walks. Artists, musicians, and young families like the creative feel and the many coffee shops and small restaurants. The neighborhood mixes quiet streets with lively weekends, offering a nice balance for everyday life. Platuni helps you find roommates who value a peaceful, creative home, making shared living in Silver Lake comfortable and fun. Silver Lake earns its place among the best neighborhoods Los Angeles for creativity and neighborly spirit.

#6. Echo Park

Echo Park

Echo Park has a warm, creative feel with hip cafes, vintage shops, and the pretty Echo Park Lake. People love the mix of old-school charm and new energy, making it a favourite for artists and young professionals. Living here means easy access to concerts, food markets, and weekend walks around the water. Platuni helps you find roommates who enjoy a creative, active lifestyle so your home stays friendly and fun. Echo Park often ranks among the best neighborhoods Los Angeles for those who want culture close to home.

Also Read: How To Find Roommates In New York City | Top 10 Apps

#7. Hollywood

Hollywood

Hollywood is famous for entertainment, theatres, and busy streets full of things to do. This neighbourhood offers many housing options, from older apartments to modern condos near work and transit. Nightlife and events happen often, so this area suits people who love an active social life. Platuni matches you with roommates who enjoy the same pace and interests, making city life easier and more balanced. Hollywood is one of the best neighborhoods Los Angeles for people who want the buzz of show business and city living.

#8. Culver City

Culver city

Culver City blends local charm with growing job opportunities, especially in film and tech. The area has good restaurants, parks, and family-friendly streets that make daily life pleasant. Strong transit links and a safe neighbourhood vibe attract many workers and small families. Platuni helps you connect with roommates who share work schedules and household habits, so rent and chores feel fair and simple. Culver City ranks among the best neighborhoods Los Angeles for people who want a steady mix of work, food, and calm living.

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#9. Brentwood

Brentwood

Brentwood is quiet and green, with wide streets, good schools, and tidy shops. People who want a peaceful home and strong community find Brentwood very appealing. Nice parks, weekend farmers’ markets, and a safe feel make it ideal for professionals and families. Platuni helps you find respectful roommates who value privacy and order, so living together stays smooth. Brentwood is often listed as one of the best neighborhoods Los Angeles for comfort and serenity.

#10. Pasadena

Pasenda

Pasadena offers historic charm, leafy avenues, and a strong local scene of shops and museums. The area is great for those who enjoy culture, day trips, and quiet neighbourhood life without losing city access. Good schools and friendly streets make Pasadena a go-to for students and families alike. Platuni helps you meet roommates who want a calm, cultured place to live, so you can share rent with people who respect your home. Pasadena stands out among the best neighborhoods Los Angeles for culture and easy living.

Also Read: Top 10 Best Student Housing Management Software

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Neighborhoods In Los Angeles

What makes a neighborhood one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles?

A neighborhood becomes one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles when it offers safety, good housing, easy transportation, and access to shops, schools, and fun places. People also look for friendly communities, clean streets, and parks. Platuni helps you compare these features easily so you can choose a place that fits your lifestyle.

Which areas in Los Angeles are best for young professionals?

Young professionals often choose Santa Monica, Downtown LA, Silver Lake, and Culver City. These places have good jobs, modern apartments, coffee shops, gyms, and great nightlife. Platuni also helps you find roommates in these popular areas so you can save money and live in a top location.

What neighborhood is best for families in Los Angeles?

Brentwood, Pasadena, and Culver City are great for families because they have good schools, parks, quiet streets, and a strong community feel. Many families use Platuni to find safe and affordable shared homes in these top family-friendly neighborhoods.

Which neighborhood is best for students in Los Angeles?

Students love Westwood, Hollywood, and Pasadena. These areas are close to universities, libraries, bus routes, and affordable food spots. Platuni helps students find trusted roommates near campus, making life easier and safer.

Is Los Angeles an expensive city to live in?

Yes, Los Angeles can be expensive, especially in top neighborhoods like Santa Monica and Beverly Hills. Rent, food, and transportation all add up. Platuni makes living in the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles more affordable by helping you share rent with good, verified roommates.

What is the most affordable good neighborhood in Los Angeles?

Echo Park, Silver Lake, and parts of Woodland Hills offer more affordable living compared to high-end areas. They still give you comfort, community, and access to city life. Platuni helps you find affordable shared homes so you can live in the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles without stress.