Los Angeles, one of the nation’s largest and most varied areas, is more than just Hollywood and Beverly Hills—in fact, it holds 88 cities and over 500 neighborhoods!

Delicious food, diverse attractions, outdoor recreation, and hidden gems are everywhere, offering something for everyone regardless of lifestyle. Get the inside scoop on this dynamic city, including some neighborhoods of note and the different types of properties to compare.

LA market

If you’re hoping to make a move to the city of angels, now may be a great time to do so. In years prior, there were oftentimes more homebuyers than houses on the market, causing the prices to steadily increase. Today, supply and demand look to have leveled out, with the average single-family home selling for $1 million, while condos can run anywhere between $400,000 and $1 million. Given the current stability in LA’s housing market, now might be a good opportunity to buy and secure a property before prices rise again.

Neighborhoods of note

Ultimately, the prices you see will depend on the neighborhood you decide to shop around in. Let’s take a glimpse at some of the best neighborhoods for homebuyers in LA.

Los Feliz
It’s difficult to beat the Los Feliz area. Not only does it offer a wide array of starter homes and long-term investment properties, but there is also a range of price points to be found, from $250,000 to $34.8 million. With such variation, this neighborhood can appeal to just about any budget.

Whatever you pay, Los Feliz is certainly worth the investment. Located south of Griffith Park, one of the city’s biggest attractions, the neighborhood’s Hillhurst and Vermont Avenues are dotted with eclectic shops and eateries, historic houses, and more. Also nearby is The Griffith Observatory, a wonderland of interactive exhibits designed to spark scientific curiosity and a love for learning. With a plethora of housing options and things to do, you’ll most likely easily be able to find something that suits all your financial and lifestyle needs.

If you’re a budding artist seeking inspiration or a young family yearning for a vibrant community, Los Feliz offers something special and is undeniably urban. Its central location puts you at the heart of the action, with many other bustling LA areas just a stone’s throw away.

West Hollywood
Despite being a hub for the creative industry, West Hollywood, sometimes known as WeHo, holds many affordable housing options and has a median single-family home price of $917,000. If you lock in a home at the lower end, you may be able to get a massive return on your investment should you sell down the line; the Hollywood market has proven to entice investors, causing real estate growth to be increasingly on the rise.

While the area is known for its vibrant nightlife, it also has much to offer to enrich the everyday lives of its residents. The vivid paintings that adorn the local buildings bring enchantment to the community, and you’ll never be bored on an excursion to Melrose Avenue thanks to its distinctive mix of modern boutiques, retro clothing retailers, and art galleries. And if you need a taste of the wilderness, simply head to nearby Runyon Canyon Park, a haven for dog walkers and hikers with breathtaking views of the city.
Whether you’re on your own looking for a new scene or looking to relocate with family, West Hollywood is a reliable option since it is at the center of LA’s entertainment industry—proving it has no intention of slowing down anytime soon.

Silver Lake
Silver Lake beckons those seeking a unique blend of youthful energy and laid-back charm. While the average home value of $1.43 million reflects its popularity, this neighborhood offers more than just a price tag. Families will love strolling or biking around the scenic Reservoirs, a haven for joggers, dog walkers, and nature enthusiasts. In addition, the Silver Lake Recreation Center offers everything from swimming pools to playgrounds, while the Sunset Junction boasts trendy cafés and independent bookstores perfect for young and old alike.

If you choose a home in this area, you’re sure to feel like a local in LA. Not many tourists tend to stay in this part of town, giving a small-town feel in a big city; and its popularity shows no signs of waning. Buying a home here positions you well for future appreciation, while offering an exceptional lifestyle in the present.

Investing in LA

With LA being on a steady incline through the years, it’s no wonder why many of these neighborhoods are attracting new businesses and residents. Since the entertainment industry remains a driver of the economy here, this will help ensure that a steady stream of newcomers will continue to flock to this West Coast area. This means that you most likely will always be able to see high rental rates if you choose to invest in a rental property here. If you are especially mindful of the neighborhood you invest in, it is common to see those rental rates grow exponentially with each passing year.

Buyer profile

With the many housing options, diversity, and endless possible lifestyles that LA offers, you can readily customize your needs. Families will enjoy the wide range of activities and educational opportunities here, young professionals will thrive in the nonstop city life, and retirees will be able to connect with nature while enjoying the California sunshine.

These insights are just a taste of what Los Angeles has to offer—check out other vibrant areas like Santa Monica with its classic charm or Pasadena with its renowned museums. No matter your preference, Los Angeles offers the freedom to customize your needs and homebuying goals, so be sure to connect with a real estate agent to narrow your list of must-haves and help you find your dream home in this remarkable city.