The 20 Best Neighborhoods in Los Angeles: Where to Work and Play

Welcome to LA, the city of dreams and endless sunshine! When you’re in your twenties, trying to find that perfect place to call home, isn’t LA exactly what you’re looking for? A city with endless work opportunities, even better play, and vibes that make you forget all about your 9 to 5.

What Realtors Say About LA

Each Los Angeles neighborhood has its unique charm (with a side of perpetual sunshine), making the choice feel a bit like swiping through a dating app—so many options, so little time. According to Realtor Matias Baker of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, 

“LA is a city you have to experience from behind the wheel. Start by driving around and exploring different neighborhoods. Use the 10 freeway as your guide—north of the 10 tends to be pricier, and the closer you get to the beach, the more expensive it gets. If the north doesn’t fit your budget, head south of the 10, where you’ll find more affordable options. Remember, in LA, the neighborhood you choose can define your lifestyle, so take the time to explore.”

Los Angeles’ Most Popular Neighborhoods

Today, we’ve narrowed down the top 20 LA neighborhoods that young professionals and college students are flocking to. According to our Diggz community, these are the spots where you’ll want to set up camp:

1. Santa Monica

Coming in at numero uno is Santa Monica, the neighborhood that’s got everyone talking. With a whopping 38% of Diggz users eyeing it, this place is a hotspot for young adults. It’s super close to colleges like UCLA, Santa Monica College, and LMU, and it’s also near some of the biggest employers in LA. Think Universal Music Group, Interscope Records, and tech giants like Snapchat, Postmates, and Headspace.

But hey, it’s not all work and no play in Santa Monica. Dubbed THE beach town of LA, you’ll feel like you’re on a permanent vacation, just a five-minute drive from the city. The Santa Monica Pier and nearby beaches offer amazing views and tons of fun. Locals love hitting the Marvin Braude Bike Trail for hiking and biking or exploring the cool shops and eateries around the 3rd Street Promenade.

On the downside, the neighborhood is so close to the beach that rents tend to be higher. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is a hefty $5,432. Yikes! But if you split that with a roommate, it’s totally worth it for all the fun and convenience Santa Monica offers.

Explore all the available Rooms for rent in Santa Monica on Diggz.

2. West Los Angeles

Now, West Los Angeles at number 2? Yup, it’s a surprise—but a good one. While it might not be the most thrilling neighborhood itself, it’s conveniently close to all the interesting ones like Beverly Hills and Westwood. And the best part? The rent here is much lower than in its swankier neighbors.

West LA is home to small apartments and modest single-family homes, making it an affordable gem in a prime location. The average rent for an apartment in West LA is about 25% lower than in neighboring areas. You can snag a studio apartment for an average of $1,870, which, for such a central spot, is an absolute steal.

Foodies will love West LA’s great dining spots like the iconic Apple Pan and Tehrangeles. But Zankou Chicken? Now that’s a local favorite you can’t miss.

Because of its affordability and central location, plenty of college students from nearby areas prefer to live in West LA and commute. As long as you have a car, you’ll be all set. 

3. Beverly Hills

Easily one of the most expensive neighborhoods in LA, Beverly Hills epitomizes luxury. But is it really worth the cost? The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment here is a staggering $3,250. For many, the price seems justified due to the neighborhood’s great perks. Its central location offers easy access to all parts of the city, with the beach just a short drive away and Hollywood and Downtown nearby.

Beverly Hills operates independently from LA Unified, boasting its own city services, including highly efficient security and sanitation departments. This autonomy is one of the aspects that sets Beverly Hills apart from other neighborhoods.

However, the biggest con is traffic. Realtor Matias Baker, suggests learning the north-south routes and using side streets to avoid main road congestion.

While Beverly Hills is renowned for its upscale dining, there are also plenty of more affordable options. For breakfast, Chaumont Bakery is a must-visit—its delectable croissants will have you coming back for more. Other great affordable eats include Mulberry Street Pizzeria, The Farm’s lunch menu, and Matu’s steaks.

4. West Hollywood

No wonder this LA neighborhood is a top pick for 33% of our Diggz users. It has everything a young professional could want: job opportunities? Check. Vibrant nightlife? Double check.

But the real highlight is its walkability. West Hollywood is consistently ranked as one of LA’s most walkable neighborhoods. With just 1.9 miles to cover, locals flock to the Sunset Strip. This iconic boulevard offers everything from unique bookshops to quirky bars and glamorous restaurants. If you’re in the mood for a laugh, the Comedy Store is the place to catch big-name stars.

While many bars cater to influencers and come with a hefty price tag, there are also great budget-friendly options. Bar Lubitsch, a laid-back Russian-themed spot, and the Viper Room, with its always energetic dance floor, offer more affordable ways to enjoy a night out.

Given its many perks, it’s no surprise that West Hollywood comes with a high price tag. A studio or 1-bedroom can cost around $2,000, so your best bet is to find a roommate and split the cost. You can find some good deals on West Hollywood Rentals on Diggz, whether going solo or the roommate route.

5. Culver City

Culver City is a millennial’s dream right in the heart of LA. Home to top-notch companies like Apple, Amazon, HBO, and Sony, it offers an impressive array of work opportunities. This neighborhood boasts excellent outdoor spaces, including dog parks, skating tracks, and tennis courts. Plus, it’s conveniently close to iconic Venice and Santa Monica Beaches, as well as the lesser-known Marina Del Rey Beach.

Culver City also features LA’s largest outdoor mall, Platform, which offers everything from wellness brands to furniture shops. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $3,528—a great deal if you’re splitting the cost with a roommate, especially for such a prime location in LA. Like Matias said, south of the I-10 neighborhoods always have better deals!

One unique aspect of Culver City is its nightlife, or rather, its quiet evenings. Most places close early, and residents adhere to the early-to-bed, early-to-rise lifestyle. However, if you’re craving a livelier scene, Downtown LA is just 7 miles away, offering the best of both worlds.

If you’re seeking an affordable neighborhood with plenty of outdoor activities, great work opportunities, and a suburban charm, Culver City is the place to be.

6. Westwood

Known as the primary neighborhood for the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Westwood is a hub for young adults and college students. It’s also featured in our top five neighborhoods for college students. If you’re young and ready to mingle, Westwood is the best neighborhood for you in LA.

Westwood’s entertainment, dining, and shopping scenes are budget-friendly, partly thanks to its student population. Diddy Riese is a favorite spot for grabbing ice cream, while Lamonica’s NY Pizza is the ultimate hangover cure.

The neighborhood’s proximity to upscale areas like Bel Air and Beverly Hills contributes to its safety. While this might suggest higher rental prices, there are still plenty of affordable options. You’ll find rows of sorority and fraternity houses south of UCLA, and further south, more modest housing options that won’t break the bank. With Diggz, you can even find off-campus housing near UCLA for as low as $600!

7. Venice

As one of the most strikingly beautiful neighborhoods in LA, Venice stands apart. Modeled after Italian architecture, it features historic homes, charming cottages, and a mix of contemporary townhouses.

Venice is a magnet for tech professionals, with companies like Google, Enervee, and Wevr headquartered here. It borders Santa Monica and Marina Del Rey, making it a prime location for beach lovers.

The neighborhood is large and diverse, with some areas being more affordable than others. Milwood and Oakwood are pricier but closer to the tech firms. For more budget-friendly options with equally stunning views, check out Mar Vista and Ocean Avenue. However, the average rent in Venice is high, at $4,524 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Venice is the best neighborhood in Los Angeles if you love the outdoors and seek a healthy balance of work and play.

8. Century City

Century City is known for its highrises that offer ultimate views of the Los Angeles skyline. Nestled near Beverly Hills and Westwood, it’s one of the safest neighborhoods in LA.

Century City is mostly home to working millennials and is a blend of commercial and residential properties. You’ll find sleek residential highrises alongside mid-century apartment buildings, creating a modern yet cozy atmosphere. The heart of the neighborhood’s entertainment scene is the Westfield Mall, a one-stop destination with everything from fine dining to high-end shopping.

If you’re seeking a quiet neighborhood with big-city vibes, Century City is the place to be. Plus, it’s a great spot for young professionals looking to balance work and leisure.

9. Hollywood

Hollywood is not all glitz and glamor. Well, who are we kidding, it totally is. But guess what? You can still find affordable student housing options here, thanks to the multitude of colleges nearby. Students from LA Film School, American Academy of Dramatic Arts, LAHC, LA Mission, and many more call this place home. The education scene here is thriving. You can snag off-campus housing or a coliving room in Hollywood for as low as $650. Can it get any better?

Beyond the famous theater and movie scene, Hollywood offers tons of fun activities. Attend the two-day music festival held every June at the Hollywood Bowl. Hike up Runyon Canyon Park for breathtaking views of the city. And brunch in WeHo is a must! Try The Butcher’s Daughter for plant-based delights, WeHo Bistro for the best quiches, and Soulmate for fun cocktails.

So, if you’re looking for a neighborhood where you can make plenty of friends and have some memorable weekends without needing a trust fund, surprise surprise, Hollywood’s got you covered!

10. Silver Lake

Coming in hot on the list is Silver Lake, LA’s cool and quirky haven. Known for its bohemian vibes, this neighborhood is a magnet for artists, musicians, and creative souls. If you’re looking for a place that’s vibrant and full of character, Silver Lake is where you need to be.

One of the best things about Silver Lake is its outdoor spaces. The Silver Lake Reservoir is perfect for a morning jog or a leisurely afternoon stroll, offering stunning views and a relaxing escape from the city hustle. The area is also home to the famous Silver Lake Staircases, which provide both a workout and a unique way to explore the neighborhood.

Housing in Silver Lake can be a bit of a mixed bag. You’ll find charming bungalows, mid-century modern homes, and sleek new apartments. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment hovers around $2,723. 

Silver Lake’s nightlife is as vibrant as its daytime scene. From cozy bars like The Thirsty Crow to live music venues like The Satellite, there’s always something happening after dark.

So, if you’re in search of a neighborhood that’s artsy, lively, and full of personality, Silver Lake is calling your name.

11. Brentwood

Brentwood is LA’s bougie daughter. Known for its iconic Sunset Boulevard, upscale dining, and beautiful tree-lined streets, this neighborhood exudes elegance and sophistication. It’s also one of the safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles with 37% less crime than the city average.

Brentwood is home to some of the hottest restaurants in LA. Sushi Sasabune offers an authentic sushi experience that draws in a cool crowd. Divino serves up exquisite Italian cuisine, and A.O.C. is famed for its small plates and wine selection, making it a favorite among foodies.

We call the neighborhood bougie for a reason. Brentwood boasts some of LA’s most luxurious homes, complemented by cultural landmarks like The Getty, which offers stunning art collections and breathtaking views.

However, luxury comes at a price. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Brentwood is $5,658, reflecting its upscale status.

12. North Hollywood

Once an up-and-coming Los Angeles neighborhood, North Hollywood (NoHo) has now firmly established itself as a cultural hub of LA.

The heart of this neighborhood is the NoHo Arts District, a vibrant area filled with restaurants, shops, grocery stores, bars, and more. Whether you’re watching quirky performances at the California Institute of Abnormal Arts or proving your film enthusiast credentials at Laemmle Theatre, there’s always something to do. You can even catch SNL-quality shows for a fraction of the price at ACME NoHo.

While this Los Angeles neighborhood does have some less desirable areas, finding housing in the Arts District can make all the difference. If you can snag a spot here, you’ll love the eclectic and artistic vibe of NoHo.

13. Burbank

Burbank is one of the biggest and most popular parts of the LA area, offering a variety of cool neighborhoods to choose from. If one doesn’t suit your fancy, another definitely will. For a more commercial vibe with plenty of shops, dining areas, and parks, head to Magnolia Boulevard. If you prefer a scenic setting, the Hillside District offers unique single-family houses to rent. For those in the entertainment industry, living near the Media Center is ideal.

Overall, Burbank is a quiet and beautiful LA neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and some multi-unit buildings. Whether you’re looking for convenience, charm, or proximity to work, Burbank has something for everyone.

14. Studio City

Studio City offers a mix of suburban charm and Hollywood edge. Located in the San Fernando Valley, it’s a favorite for industry folks and families alike.
You’ll find some great spots like Ventura Boulevard, known for its trendy cafes, boutique stores, and delicious dining options. If you’re into outdoor activities, the nearby Fryman Canyon offers fantastic hiking trails with scenic views.

With more affordable rents compared to trendier areas, it’s a practical choice for those seeking a balance of calm and convenience.

15. Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach is the quintessential SoCal beach town with a laid-back vibe and gorgeous ocean views. Known for its pristine sandy beaches, it’s perfect for anyone looking to embrace the surf and sun lifestyle. It’s not just about the beach, though—Manhattan Beach also boasts top-notch dining and boutique shopping. The Strand, a scenic beachfront path, is a favorite for joggers and cyclists.

Living here, you’ll enjoy a friendly, community feel and a slower pace of life, all while being just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of LA. Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is $5,366. While it’s on the pricier side, with average rents reflecting its prime location, the stunning sunsets and beachy charm make it worth every penny.

16. Downtown L.A.

Ahh, Downtown LA—the beating heart of the city. Home to a vibrant, energetic crowd, this neighborhood seamlessly blends fun, work, and study. It’s the primary hub for students of FIDM and the University of Southern California. And the perks? Oh, they’re so worth it. Downtown Los Angeles puts you right in the center of all the action.

Catch a Lakers game or a concert at the STAPLES Center, where sports fans and music lovers alike can find something to cheer about. Downtown is also known for its buzzing nightlife, with popular college bars like La Cita Bar and Exchange offering the perfect spots for a night out.

For foodies, Grand Central Market is a paradise. Visiting legendary spots like Eggslut and China Cafe is a must for any culinary enthusiast. And if you’re in the mood for a movie, enjoy the outdoor cinema vibe at Street Food Cinema, where tickets start from just $22 and you can savor delicious street food under the stars.

Aside from the obvious fun, Downtown LA is a very practical area to move to. It is affordable and has plenty of grocery shops and restaurants within walking distance, an amenity all residents seek.

Finding a place to live in this lively neighborhood isn’t too tough. For a two-bedroom apartment shared with a roommate, you can expect to pay around $2,000. If you are looking for the ultimate Los Angeles neighborhood for college students, your search ends here.

17. Koreatown

One of LA’s most densely populated neighborhoods, Koreatown comes with its share of pros and cons. The downside is obvious: it’s a bustling area with heavy traffic. But the upsides are plentiful. Koreatown is one of the most affordable neighborhoods in LA. You can find apartments on Diggz for as low as $1,500. 

If you’re new to Los Angeles and uncertain about job opportunities, Koreatown is a great choice. The neighborhood is exceptionally well-served by public transport, making it easy to get around. Plus, its central location means traveling to popular areas like Burbank, Santa Monica, or Downtown is a breeze.

As the name suggests, Koreatown is a haven for K-pop fans. From delectable Korean cuisine to malls stocked with BTS merchandise, it’s a K-vibe paradise. Local favorites include Dan Sung Sa and Baekjong, which are beloved spots for authentic Korean food.

If you’re new to the city and still figuring out where you want to settle long-term, Koreatown is the perfect neighborhood for those in-between years.

18. Los Feliz

Los Feliz is the cool, eclectic spot you didn’t know you needed. Nestled between Hollywood and Griffith Park, this neighborhood is known for its charming bungalows, trendy cafes, and vibrant arts scene. 

Stroll down Hillhurst Avenue for quirky shops and cozy restaurants, or explore Griffith Park for hiking and stunning city views. With a laid-back vibe and a strong community feel, Los Feliz offers a perfect mix of urban convenience and neighborhood charm. Plus, it’s just a hop away from the action of downtown LA and Hollywood.

And that’s not all. The neighborhood is also one of the safest and most affordable ones in LA. Two factors that don’t always go side by side in the city. You can find a 1-bedroom apartment for as low as $1,500, an absolute steal!

19. Playa Vista

This Los Angeles neighborhood seems tailor-made for young professionals who work in suits by day and play in volleyball shorts by night. Close to popular areas like Santa Monica but without the hefty price tag, this beach town offers a more affordable alternative.

The presence of college students and young adults keeps rental prices relatively low. Home to Loyola Marymount University and near Santa Monica College and West Los Angeles College, the area boasts a fun, youthful vibe.

Playa Vista is the Silicon Valley of LA. From major corporations like Google and Microsoft to small tech firms, the neighborhood is truly booming with opportunities.

20. Hollywood Hills

Hollywood Hills combines breathtaking views with a touch of celebrity glamor. Nestled above Hollywood, this area is perfect for those seeking privacy and proximity to the city’s buzz. Expect stunning hillside homes with panoramic views and a variety of rental options, from modern apartments to luxurious estates.

Rent here can be on the higher side, with a 3-bedroom apartment averaging around $8,547. If you’re willing to splurge, you’ll enjoy quiet, picturesque surroundings with easy access to Hollywood’s entertainment scene and the natural beauty of Griffith Park.

Move to Los Angeles ALREADY!

Do you need any more convincing? 

Los Angeles is easily one of the best cities America has to offer. From the bougie Beverly Hills to the campcore lifestyle of Silverlake, from nerding out in Westwood to enjoying eternal sunshine in Santa Monica—it’s beautiful, to say the least.

But, let’s be real—the cost of living in LA can be pretty steep. With rents soaring, your best bet is to find an LA roommate and call it a day. Split your expenses and that ginormous rent, and live like a star in LA. So, find your LA roommate now and make this pricey adventure half as expensive and twice as fun!