Los Angeles is more than just the glitz of Hollywood and the sun-soaked beaches. Itโs a vibrant city made up of distinct communities, each with its own unique personality and vibe. Whether youโre a young professional chasing a career in entertainment, a family looking for peaceful suburbs, or someone who thrives in a walkable environment, LA has a spot for you.
But with so many different parts of LA to explore, itโs natural to ask: What are the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles? There are plenty of amazing Los Angeles neighborhoods to choose from, many of which also give you access to other parts of the San Fernando Valley, such as Santa Monica, West Hollywood, Culver City, and select Calabasas neighborhoods.
With so many different parts of LA, youโre sure to find something that fits your needs. Whether youโre looking for a unique arts district or business center for young professionals, the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles have something to offer you.
Highland Park | Trendy, Quirky Neighborhood in Los Angeles
Highland Park has quickly become one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles for creatives and young professionals. Situated just north of Downtown, this historic area is full of old-school charm as well as a thriving arts and food scene. Itโs known for its vintage shops, indie galleries, and trendy restaurants along York Boulevard and Figueroa Street.
Donโt miss brunch at Kitchen Mouse, craft beer at Highland Park Brewery, or tacos at HomeState. For a fun night out, check out Good Housekeeping, a hidden speakeasy-style bar, or hit a nearby rooftop bar in neighboring areas. While itโs a far cry from Santa Monica or the San Fernando Valley, Highland Parkโs character makes it a strong contender for the best place to live in Los Angeles.
Highland Park Information
- Population: 57,566
- Average rent, one-bedroom: $2,173
- Median home price: $1.08 million
- Crime rate: 1,108 crimes per 100,000 people (107% lower than Los Angeles average)
Echo Park | One of the Best Neighborhoods in Los Angeles for Families
Before Hollywood claimed the spotlight, Echo Park was actually the heart of West Coast filmmaking, with silent films produced at studios like Mack Sennettโs Keystone. Today, it remains one of the nicest parts of LA and is known for its walkability and tight-knit community.
Families are drawn to its mix of character homes and local schools like Elysian Heights Elementary and Gabriella Charter School. Spend your days outside at Echo Park Lake, where you can rent pedal boats or picnic under the palm trees. Catch a show at The Echo or stroll Sunset Boulevardโs vintage shops and cafes. With nearby entertainment venues and endless entertainment options, Echo Park rivals hotspots like Santa Monica as one of the best neighborhoods to live in Los Angeles.
Echo Park Information
- Population: 35,203
- Average rent, one-bedroom: $2,765
- Median home price: $1.3 million
- Crime rate: 4,664 crimes per 100,000 people (23% higher than Los Angeles average)
Studio City | One of the Busiest Los Angeles Neighborhoods
Studio City is one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles for those seeking a relaxed, upscale vibe with easy access to both the valley and Downtown LA. This charming area has tree-lined streets as well as urban convenience, making it popular with entertainment professionals, families, and young creatives. Its proximity to major studios like CBS Studio Center makes it a hub for film and TV industry jobs, while nearby Universal Studios also serves as a major employer and attraction.
Ventura Boulevard is the heart of Studio City, packed with restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques. Youโll find everything from casual brunch spots to upscale dining, plus a vibrant nightlife with cozy lounges and nearby music venues. While itโs quieter than West Hollywood, Studio City still remains quite busy at all times.
Studio City Information
- Population: 43,753
- Average rent, one-bedroom: $2,727
- Median home price: $1.06 million
- Crime rate: 4,471 crimes per 100,000 people (19% higher than Los Angeles average)
The Hollywood Hills stands out as one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles, known for its city views, celebrity homes, and iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and Hollywood Bowl. Tucked between Downtown LA and the San Fernando Valley, itโs centrally located, making it ideal for young professionals who want quick access to studios and city attractions. Residents enjoy a peaceful, residential vibe with easy access to Griffith Park and West Hills.
The area is home to gourmet restaurants, trendy cafes, and high-end shopping on nearby streets like Melrose Avenue. With 54.8% of residents aged 25 and older holding a four-year degree, it ranks high in education compared to other LA communities.
Hollywood Hills Information
- Population: 20,950
- Average rent, one-bedroom: $2,325
- Median home price: $1.6 million
- Crime rate: 3,534 crimes per 100,000 people (3% lower than Los Angeles average)
Los Feliz | One of the Best Neighborhoods in Los Angeles
Located just east of Hollywood and bordering Griffith Park, Los Feliz is one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles for those seeking a mix of old Hollywood Charm and city convenience. With its tree-lined streets, Spanish-style homes, and welcoming neighbors, itโs a favorite among artists, families, and professionals alike. It is also one of the safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, with a crime rate that is 7% below the LA average.
Thereโs plenty to do in Los Feliz, from catching a film at the historic Vista Theatre to exploring Griffith Observatory or enjoying brunch at Alcove Cafe. Fine dining options like Little Domโs and Messhall Kitchen offer upscale eats. While itโs a little more laid-back than Santa Monica or the Arts District, Los Feliz holds its own with indie boutiques, cozy wine bars, and walkable streets.
Los Feliz Information
- Population: 28,163
- Average rent, one-bedroom: $2,499
- Median home price: $1.9 million
- Crime rate: 3,410 crimes per 100,000 people (7% lower than Los Angeles average)
Silver Lake | Hip, Creative Neighborhood In Los Angeles
Silver Lake has long held a reputation as one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles and is loved for its artistic vibe and lake-adjacent charm. Just a short drive from Santa Monica Boulevard and centrally located near Downtown LA, Silver Lake is a go-to spot for creatives, musicians, and trendsetters. Youโll find everything from modern apartments like those at The Dillon and Vica to charming hillside homes with amazing views.
The neighborhood has plenty of designer boutiques, vintage shops, and cool cafes along Sunset Junction. Make sure you grab coffee at Intelligentsia, browse records at Rockaway Records, or relax by Silver Lake Reservoir. While itโs not next to beautiful beaches or the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, Silver Lake offers its own brand of LA magic, complete with celebrity sightings and top-rated schools like Ivanhoe Elementary. Itโs no wonder so many people want to live in Los Angeles and call Silver Lake home.
Silver Lake Information
- Population: 37,019
- Average rent, one-bedroom: $2,274
- Median home price: $1.5 million
- Crime rate: 3,529 crimes per 100,000 people (3% lower than Los Angeles average)
Shadow Hills | One of the Best Neighborhoods in Los Angeles for Nature Lovers
Shadow Hills is one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles for families seeking peace and quiet within the city limits. Located in the mountains above Burbank, this hidden gem feels more like a small town than an LA neighborhood. With a population density of just 468 people per square mile and a crime rate 80% lower than the city average, Shadow Hills offers a family-friendly atmosphere thatโs hard to find elsewhere.
The area is known for its equestrian charm, and most properties are horse-zoned with riding trails through the scenic hills. Homeowners enjoy spacious lots, hiking trails, and easy access to both nature and nearby city amenities. While itโs far from the coastal breezes of Beverly Hills or artisanal coffee shops in trendier areas, Shadow Hills has its own charm, with weekend farmers markets, occasional live music, and a slower pace that offers a true retreat from city life.
Shadow Hills Information
- Population: 14,597
- Average rent, one-bedroom: $2,065
- Median home price: $1.1 million
- Crime rate: 1,558 crimes per 100,000 people (80% lower than Los Angeles average)
Brentwood | LA Neighborhood With Plenty of Green Space
Brentwood is one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles and is located at the base of the Santa Monica Mountains. The area blends historic charm with natural beauty and contains tree-lined streets and spacious homes. Brentwood is also one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles, with good schools, making it a favorite among families.
Youโll find plenty to do when living in the Brentwood area. You can hike the scenic trails at Will Rogers State Historic Park, enjoy a picnic at Brentwood Country Club, or spend an afternoon shopping at the Brentwood Country Mart. When it comes to nice neighborhoods in LA for professionals, Brentwood is a top contender. The areaโs economy thrives in commercial hubs like Barrington Plaza and the San Vicente Business District. Youโll also find endless entertainment options and plenty of fun markets to enjoy on the weekends.
Brentwood Information
- Population: 33,312
- Average rent, one-bedroom: $3,564
- Median home price: $3.1 million
- Crime rate: 1,430 crimes per 100,000 people (87% lower than Los Angeles average)
Bel Air | One of the Most Prestigious and Safest Los Angeles Neighborhoods
Bel Air is one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles and is known for its privacy and stunning hillside estates. With a median home price of $5.1 million, itโs also one of the most exclusive and safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, offering 24/7 security and private gated communities. Itโs situated just west of Beverly Hills and offers tree-lined streets and sweeping city and ocean views.
This elite enclave attracts high-profile celebrity residents and professionals seeking serene, high-end Los Angeles neighborhoods. Itโs removed from the buzz of places like Manhattan Beach and the iconic Santa Monica Pier but is still within reach of world-class art galleries, fine dining, and coastal living amenities.
Bel Air Information
- Population: 7,351
- Median home price: $5.1 million
- Crime rate: 1,772 crimes per 100,000 people (69% lower than Los Angeles average)
Los Angeles Neighborhoods Map
Check out this map of the best LA neighborhoods.
Are You Ready to Call One of the Best Los Angeles Neighborhoods Home?
Now that you know all of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles, where will you settle down? Any one of these Los Angeles neighborhoods is a great choice! Once youโve found the perfect spot for you, give the Los Angeles movers at Movegreen a call! To get started with a free quote, give our team a call at (866) 684-7336.
