Moving To Los Angeles Alone?
Moving To Los Angeles Alone?
Master Guide To Moving To LA
Planning to move to LA alone? Don’t overcomplicate the process as it’s easier than we tend to overthink.
You may already be asking yourself the following questions:
- Is moving to Los Angeles a good idea? Let’s be honest, your family or friends may already be talking you out of it.
- What is the reality of living in Los Angeles? Is everyone vegan? Does traffic really suck? Do you see celebrities everyday?
- I’m moving to LA after college, what are some of the areas I should consider living? Consider living in Echo Park, renting in Hollywood or Culver City.
- Lastly, what can New Yorkers moving to Los Angeles expect? Hint, a car is a must in LA.
Moving to LA alone should not be nerve-wrecking or a big ordeal.
Remember, you are not the first nor will you be the last – and if others before you could move to LA alone successfully, you can too!
If that voice inside your head keeps saying “I want to live in LA“, then this article is for you.
Basic Information to Know Before Moving to LA Alone
The city of Los Angeles is around 472 square miles while LA county is 4,084 square miles. There are almost 4 million people living within the city limits (and close to 18.7 million in the greater Los Angeles metro region). This makes L.A. a sprawling modern metropolis.
Whether moving to Los Angeles for work, a fresh start, or to raise a family in LA, it can be a lot to take in. Therefore knowing the ins-and-outs before moving to Los Angeles is essential! I want to provide you with the pros of moving to California.
In this Moving To Los Angeles Guide we will cover everything you need to know about your move to LA.
The Los Angeles Lifestyle
What’s The Work Culture in L.A. Like?
We are all familiar (or have heard) about the car traffic in L.A. But what those who move to Los Angeles may witness is all the human traffic during business hours.
As in, everywhere-you-look there are humans jamming cafes and outdoor patios during business hours. “Wait, do people not work here?” – you ask yourself. As a city that is known for its artists, creatives and entertainment workers, one thing to remember about Los Angeles is that workers in the city don’t necessarily follow the conventional idea of a work schedule.
Not all jobs in Los Angeles require the individual to be cooped up in a building in a cubicle during the day as one may be used to.
Take models, actors, photographers and writers for example. They don’t require permanent work areas. So they will usually be moving around the city during the day. Models going to castings, and photographers and writers working in cafes. Therefore, don’t be alarmed by the sheer number of individuals you will encounter lounging on their laptops during business owners.
Moving to Los Angeles for Acting?
One of the first things you’ll need are new acting headshots to get you on the right path in Hollywood. Actors moving to LA need to work with an experienced photographer who understands how to take great headshots and Sergio Garcia Headshots is the perfect choice.
Additionally, I can help you find the best place to live in LA for actors. Moving to Los Angeles with no money (or very little?) You’d be surprised to know that you don’t need much to find the perfect communal living Los Angeles or apartment for rent.
As the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles is a fast-paced, and competitive metropolitan city. However, the attitude of its residents is quite casual and laid-back. After all, the frequently great weather and year-round sunshine present in L.A. is bound to create a casual atmosphere in the midst of the craziness.
Actor Studios in Los Angeles
- Stella Adler
- Scott Sedita
- Anthony Gilardi
- Actors Comedy Studio
- Speiser Sturges
- NoHo Actors Studio
- Elizabeth Mestnik
Interesting fact:
• According to LAEDC, the Motion Picture and Video Production sector within the entertainment industry makes up nearly 73% of total industry employment
Embracing Healthy Living
Being a world capital in the wellness space, healthy living in Los Angeles is not only easy – but (almost) expected.
From the endless miles of hiking trails to the coastline beaches – note there are over 30 miles of beaches to explore – Los Angeles offers all the wellness essentials for those considering the big move. Yes, it’s true. You can raise both arms to either direction and you’ll be within reach of a yoga studio on one end and a juice bar on the other.
So whether you’re looking for speciality yoga studios, CBD smoothies, anxiety coaches, or restaurants that meet your specific dietary requirements, you are bound to find it.
Don’t forget that L.A. is the breeding ground for all things diet and exercise fads.
Popular studios in LA are:
Parking & Traffic in Los Angeles
Parking and traffic in L.A. … Where do we start? 😒
Firstly, as a new transplant to the city you will start to notice that a great deal of businesses offer valet parking. Whether you’re dining in an upscale restaurant in Beverly Hills or a locals dive bar in Silver Lake.
Secondly, not only is finding parking a premium in Los Angeles, but it is quite confusing with complicated parking signs (read carefully). You are probably more likely to receive a parking ticket than a speeding ticket in the city.
In regards to traffic, friends joke that AM traffic goes from 7am – 11:30am and PM traffic runs from 12pm – 7pm.
Los Angeles Traffic is No Joke
Traffic is packed on weekends and regardless of time of day.
While you contemplate your move to Los Angeles, mentally prepare yourself that traffic and parking is part of the package.
It’s recommended to have a running list of your favorite podcasts or music ready to go whenever you hop into your car.
Likewise it’s important to know that when you leave the house, you take everything with you. Especially if you live in a posh Los Angeles suburb.
There is no “going back home to change for dinner”. You will drive yourself mad. New comers to the city aren’t aware that Los Angeles is very spread out.
Therefore it will always be in your best interest to plan your entire day accordingly. And take all necessary items for the day with you.
Yes, going out in Los Angeles will take strategic pre-pre-planning. Even if you’re moving from SF to LA, this can catch one off guard.
Interesting fact:
- Los Angeles drivers spent 102 hours battling traffic during peak hours in 2017
- Download SpotHero. The parking app lets you reserve a parking spot in LA whether valet, garage or lot. Life-saver!
Residents Of Los Angeles
Why is LA a good place to live?
People move to Los Angeles from all over.
Moving to LA alone? No worries! You’re bound to meet individuals from all over the world who moved here alone too.
When you live in LA, you will be gifted with a wealth of cultural diversification. Your neighbors may be from the other side of the world. Talk about great conversations!
- Population break down (as of 2005-2009 per U.S. Census Bureau)
- 47.5% Hispanic or Latino
- 29.4% White, Non-Hispanic
- 10.9% Asian/Pacific Islander
- 9.8% African American
- 2.4% Native American/Other
With so much diversity in Los Angeles, one instantly feels welcomed and at home. Los Angeles is for everyone and as a newcomer, you’ll fit right in almost immediately. So yes, moving to LA in your 30s is still a good idea.
Interesting facts:
- There are over 185 languages spoken in Los Angeles
- Los Angeles began when descendants of Spanish families in the region – known as Los Pobladores – settled in what is now downtown LA
The Los Angeles Weather
What is Los Angeles like when it comes to weather? You’ve at least heard that the weather is mostly perfect year round in L.A.! So if you’re moving to LA from Canada, you’re going to be in for a surprise.
LA is classified as Mediterranean (a type of dry subtropical climate) – So New Yorkers moving to Los Angeles will appreciate the climate change. An interesting fact is that Los Angeles also contains microclimates. during the daytime, some temperatures can range around 30°F.
Moving to LA from Seattle? You’ll be surprised to know that annually, the precipitation levels are relatively low compared to other similar climates. So if you’re not much into rain, welcome home!
On average, the highs in Los Angeles stay around 75°F while the lows are around 55°F. This “perfect” weather of warm days and cool nights give life to all the plant beauty Los Angeles has to offer (like a favorite, the Bird of Paradise).
If you’re moving to LA from Australia, you will find that the weather is somewhat similar … (to an extent anyway).
Interesting facts:
- December 1990 was the last sever cold outbreak in LA. Temperatures dropped below freezing
- The highest record temperature reached 116°F on August 24, 1949 in the San Fernando Valley
Los Angeles Food Scene
If you’re a foodie (guilty) the horrible LA traffic won’t be as much a bother when making the drive to your favorite culinary spots.
Los Angeles offers an array of food for everyone. From the Armenian influences in Glendale, Korean in Koreatown, Japanese in Sawtelle, to Ethiopian in Little Ethiopia, the options are endless.
Yes, Los Angeles offers expensive places to dine in Beverly Hills and the like. But as always, the best spots to dine are usually always the small neighborhood shops like in the Arts District of downtown LA or Silver Lake (which is also considered one of the hipster neighborhoods in Los Angeles)
- For mediterranean stop by Dune or Mazal
- Your Burger fix! – Try In-N-Out throughout various locations in Los Angeles (don’t forget about their secret-ish menu)
- Sushi mood? – Head to Little Tokyo. Also the famed Nobu or Sugarfish
- Are you a sucker for sandwiches like we are? You must visit Ggiata!
- Hot Dogs anyone? – The famous Pink’s Hot Dogs in La Brea is a must
- More wine please! – Head out to the Malibu Wine Safari to sip local wines (you won’t be disappointed)
- Moving to LA from Miami? Definitely recommend checking out El Cochinito.
- What about pizza? Definitely recommend Braazo Pizza in DTLA (don’t let the area spook you away)
Education in Los Angeles
Moving to Los Angeles for school and higher education? Los Angeles boasts 113 accredited colleges and universities like Pepperdine University, and Loyola Marymount University.
World-renowned universities in Los Angeles include:
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of Southern California (USC)
- Art Center of College Design
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
Working in Los Angeles
How hard is it to move to LA? Or is it hard to find work in Los Angeles?
No matter your career, you will mostly likely find it in Los Angeles. After all, more than 2,000 innovative startups call LA home. So you won’t have to wonder too hard on how to make a living in Los Angeles.
Although the entertainment industry is a key element of Los Angeles, there is more work opportunities outside of that. Yes, Los Angeles is home to the best story makers and film makers who power mega players in Hollywood like Disney, DreamWorks and Paramount.
However, did you know that tourism employs nearly half a million people in the Los Angeles metro area?
Tips About Work Before Moving To LA
When wondering how much do you need to move to LA, remember this. Apart from the entertainment business, additional big players in the Los Angeles workspace are:
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Aerospace
- Fashion
- Information Technology
- Trade
- Marketing & Design
So moving to Los Angeles without a job should not present too much trouble as there are plenty of work options to explore.
Fashion
World known fashion brands such as American Apparel, Guess, True Religion and Lucky Brand, have started in Los Angeles.
Downtown Los Angeles is covered with manufacturing and wholesaling factories ready to create footwear and jewelry. This along with other factors rank LA number one when it comes to apparel and leather.
Moving to downtown LA? When it comes to fashion education, Los Angeles boasts The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) and the Otis College of Art & Design, which is located in DTLA.
Also in downtown LA are upscale shops for shopping including those at The Row (Coast by Coast, dRA, Hawkins New York) and Dover Street Market (NikeLab, Supreme, Balenciaga)
Aerospace
With more than any city in the nation in the aerospace industry (300+ companies to be exact), LA reigns king when it comes to securing highly skilled engineers and talent within this industry.
Big name players range from JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory) in Pasadena to the NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center in Palmdale. Just as big players include Boing, Lockheed, SpaceX and Raytheon.
Things To Do In LA
A world-class city like Los Angeles has endless things to do, no matter the day of the week.
- Hiking to the Hollywood Sign on Griffith Park
- Lunch date with friends to Point Dume in Malibu
- Weekend trips to Laguna Beach or Santa Barbara
- Checking out the new exhibits at The Broad or MOCA in downtown Los Angeles
- Hitting one of the endless farmers market all around the city including:
- Echo Park farmers market / open 3pm-7:30pm on Fridays
- South Pasadena farmers market / open 4pm-7pm on Thursdays
- Atwater Village farmers market / open 10am-2pm on Sundays
- The Original Farmers market / 10am-6pm daily
- Venice farmers market / 7-11am on Fridays
- Hollywood farmers market / 8am-1pm on Sundays
Don’t forget about taking a quick trip to Catalina Island; the perfect staycation.
You are bound to find something that tickles your fancy.
Art & Culture in LA
You couldn’t have a city like Los Angeles without art and culture. That’s why there are over 250 museums in Los Angeles and the surrounding communities.
Some of the most notable ones being:
- The Broad in downtown Los Angeles (financed by philanthropists Eli & Edythe Broad at a whooping $140million). Not only is the architecture of the museum itself instagram worthy, but viewing of their permanent collection is free. Tip: Before heading to The Broad in DTLA make sure to make your reservation online.
- The Getty Center located in the Brentwood area of LA. Not only does it house pre-20th century European paintings and sculptures, but the view it offers of Los Angeles is a work of art of its own. The Getty is also free admission. You only pay for parking and enjoy a nice tram ride to the entrance on top.
- Prefer something more niche? The Museum of Jurassic Technology is one of those “unknown” (but known) places. Located in Culver City, upon entering you will discover a treasure trove of artifacts. It’s worth a check.
- Enjoy a concert outdoors at the famous Hollywood Bowl amphitheater (you can even make it a picnic). Being named one of the top 10 best live music venues in America by Rolling Stone Magazine means something, right?
Los Angeles Nightlife
Moving to Los Angeles alone? Then you deserve to know what it’s like living in Los Angeles if you’re single.
Being a city known for its celebrities and Hollywood has to come with its perks – cue in the Los Angeles nightlife scene.
Los Angeles has some of the top bars, lounges and clubs in the world. Ranging from world-renowned hot spots on the Sunset Strip and Hollywood Boulevard to hole-in-the-walls in Echo Park and Downtown L.A.
Cliftons in downtown Los Angeles is an eclectic house of curiosities. From drinking a cold brew next to a grizzly bear, to the fourth floor hidden behind a mirror, it’s truly a fascinating place.
Search houses for sale in Downtown LA if you crave living in an eclectic community.
Care to see where some of the greatest stars in music got their start? The Troubadour, located in West Hollywood, played huge roles in the careers the Eagles, Elton John James Taylor and Jackson Browne.
Some popular bars in Los Angeles include:
Bars in Downtown LA
West Hollywood Bars
- Surly Goat
- Bar Lubitsch
- Delilah
- The Abby (if you’re living alone in Los Angeles, you are sure to meet new friends hre)
Santa Monica Bars
- The Bungalow
- The Daily Pint
- Canary
- Bar Chloe
So if you’re moving to California by yourself, you will more than likely start meeting people sooner than later.
Beaches & Mountains
As you may have heard, it’s possible to ski in the mountains in the AM and be on the beach in the PM in Los Angeles. With its nearly perfect weather, LA has plenty of outdoor activities. This is a bonus for those moving to Los Angeles with kids as the city offers plenty of outdoor activities.
- Griffith Park (where the Hollywood Sign lays) has more than 50 miles of hiking trails that lead you to the Griffith Observatory. Here you can catch some amazing views of the city. Not into hiking? You can also travel on horseback here.
- Runyon Canyon, notable famous for sight seeing celebrities, is an 106-acre park that offers trails for hikes and a dog park for those wanting to spend time with their furry friend.
- A personal favorite is Circle X Ranch located in the Santa Monica Mountains. It’s a relatively easy hike with killer views. Make sure to make it to the bottom (you’ll have to navigate through some boulders) to The Grotto.
- Not sure where to go hiking? Download the popular hiking all, All Trails.
Take a drive north or south on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH or “1”) and you’ll discover all the local beaches. Not to mention some of the views are awe-inspiring.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand in Malibu. Start a bonfire, or play volleyball in Santa Monica or do some shopping and sight seeing on Venice beach, you’ll find it on one of the beaches in Los Angeles.
Annual Events in Los Angeles
Moving to Los Angeles will reward you with an array of annual events.
So whether you’re looking forward to the Hollywood Christmas Parade hosted on Hollywood Boulevard since 1933 (and features celebrity guest – it’s Hollywood, after all) or the Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre, you won’t be disappointed.
Below is a list of some of the top annual events in LA.
- Golden Globes Awards – They are held at the Beverly Hilton. And have been since 1961
- Halloween Block Party – hosted in West Hollywood
- Chinese Near Year/Golden Dragon Parade
- Grammy Awards hosted in the Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles
- NOHO Theatre & Arts Festival – one of the longest running theatre celebrations in Southern California
- dine LA – Restaurant Week – A 14 day for foodies in Los Angeles
- LA Marathon
- LA Auto Show – hosted in the Los Angeles Convention Center
- Anime Expo – hosted in the Los Angeles Convention Center
Los Angeles Sports Teams
Los Angeles loves its sports teams. Home to several professional and collegiate sports teams, all who are looking to attend live sporting events are in the right place.
With sports venues like the Staples Center (now known as the Crypto.com Arena)in downtown Los Angeles where the NBA’s Los Angeles Laker and the Los Angeles Clippers play, Dodger Stadium in Elysian Park (few minutes north of DTLA), and the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, you will more than likely find yourself catching a game when you move to Los Angeles.
Major League Professional Teams in Los Angeles
-
- The Los Angeles Chargers
- L.A. Dodgers
- L.A. Clippers
- Los Angeles Sparks
- LA Angels
- Los Angeles Lakers
- Los Angeles Rams
- LA Kings
- LA FC
- Anaheim Ducks
- The LA Galaxy
Collegiate Sports Teams in Los Angeles
-
- Cal State Fullerton Titans Baseball
- UCLA Bruins Mens Basketball
- USC Trojan Track & Field
- Trojan Basketball @ USC
- Trojans Football @ USC
Sporting Venues in Los Angeles
-
- Staples Center (downtown Los Angeles)
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- Rose Bowl (in Pasadena)
- SoFi Stadium
Interesting Facts About Los Angeles
- Cost Of Moving To Los Angeles – The Los Angeles cost of living is over the national average. Ranking at 195.1 based on a U.S. average of 100.
- Living Wage in Los Angeles – Per hour, the living wage of one adult amounts to $14.36. For those moving to Los Angeles with kids, the stats relay that two adults with two children are around $30.72
- Los Angeles Median Rent Prices – Median rent in LA is around $1370 for a 1 bedroom apartment and around $1760 for a 2 bedroom apartment.
- LA has the highest number of women-owned companies in the U.S.
- Moving to Los Angeles alone? There are 80 neighborhoods in Los Angeles to choose from, each offering their own personality and charm
- Median Annual Salary in Los Angeles – is about $54,430
- Los Angeles and San Francisco get 2.5 inches closer every year
- Over 40 million people visit L.A. annually
- Beverly Hills High School produces oil (earning around $300k a year in revenue)
- The economy of LA is larger than 46 out of the 50 states
Is Moving to LA a Good Idea?
Los Angeles is a city for dreamers and those with an entrepreneurial spirit and the benefits of living in LA are immense. The bad are mostly traffic and parking related.
Stop wondering “How can I move to Los Angeles” – and make the jump! I hope this Los Angeles relocation guide has helped ease your mind.
You’re encouraged to share with your friends or family who want to know the advantages of living in Los Angeles.
Moving to Los Angeles Advice: Final Thoughts
You’re thinking to yourself I Want To Live in LA or Are People Moving to Los Angeles?
Well hopefully this in-depth moving to LA blog has answered many of your questions.
Whether you’re moving from:
- Vancouver to Los Angeles
- Moving from NYC to LA
- Or NorCal to SoCal
The City of Angels is a destination, and one you are sure to enjoy!
Let Me Help You When Moving to Los Angeles Alone
Moving to LA should be fun! Yes, you may have questions and yes it’s ok to be anxious.
How can I help make your move to LA easier? Two big reasons below:
- Firstly, I’m an LA resident who also made the move and wish I had received this help moving to California.
- Secondly, being a full-time real estate agent I have the experience needed to make your move to LA smooth and fun
If you’re going to be an LA county first time home buyer or renter, I can help you.
Below you can browse homes for lease in LA. If you need help finding apartments, I can help with that as well.
It’s time to take the jump and say “I’m moving to Los Angeles“!