Moving to Los Angeles? LA is home to beautiful beaches, world-class nightlife, amazing job opportunities, and so much more. If you’re considering living in the City of Angels, check out these 14 things to know about Los Angeles!
Los Angeles at a Glance
- The second-largest city in the U.S., Los Angeles has a population of nearly 4 million people.
- Located in Southern California along the Pacific Ocean, LA is approximately 25 miles away from Long Beach, a 3-hour drive from San Diego and a 7-hour drive from San Francisco.
- The city is a center for higher education, home to top universities such as UCLA, USC, and Caltech.
- Known as the heart of the U.S. entertainment industry, LA is home to Hollywood, major film studios, and countless television and music production companies.
- Los Angeles features iconic landmarks and outdoor spaces, including Griffith Park, the Hollywood Sign, and more.
Discover Incredible Jobs in Los Angeles
Aspiring creatives aren’t the only ones who can carve out a career in Los Angeles—which has the largest entertainment and media industry in the nation! Those searching the Los Angeles job market for positions in industries like aerospace, IT, bioscience, transportation, entertainment, fashion, and beyond can find opportunities in this megacity. Well-known companies like Snapchat, Google, Netflix, Buzzfeed, and many more operate offices out of the LA metro, but job-seekers can also find a variety of small businesses, start-ups, and gig-economy work in the area. This unique work culture in LA has long had many residents choosing to work from home, freelance, or otherwise forgo a traditional 9-to-5 job. In fact, the City of Angels is one of the best cities in the country for entrepreneurs.
Q: Is Los Angeles good for entrepreneurs?
A: Yes! LA’s flexible work culture supports freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs. With a thriving start-up scene and access to key creative industries in Los Angeles, it’s one of the best cities in the U.S. to work independently.
Adjust to the Unique Earthquake-
Resistant Structures
Due to its size and geographic position, Los Angeles has a unique, sway-proof infrastructure. Many buildings in LA are built to withstand earthquakes, which the city sees semi-frequently due to its location along the San Andreas Fault. Researching earthquake preparedness is a great idea before moving to Los Angeles—especially if you’re coming from somewhere without earthquakes. LA’s infrastructure is also designed to accommodate the city’s large population and its continued growth, with features like wide, multi-lane roadways throughout the city.
Q: How often do earthquakes occur in Los Angeles?
A: Southern California is estimated to receive roughly 10,000 earthquakes annually, although most are too small to be felt, and only a few hundred are greater than a 3.0 magnitude. Nevertheless, it’s still important to properly prepare for these instances.
Take Advantage of Los Angeles Public Transportation
Los Angeles is more spread out than other big cities, so getting around takes some time. While LA is notorious for traffic congestion, there are plenty of ways to stay out of it if you prefer not to drive. Many Angelinos with active lifestyles will bike or walk to destinations within their neighborhood or use ridesharing for further trips. Public transit is another popular option in Los Angeles, with robust bus, subway, and light rail systems that provide convenient access to the entire LA metro. If you have to drive, many businesses validate parking, which helps you save some cash. Also, many SoCal locals refer to interstates, highways, and freeways by the corresponding number, like “The 405,” instead of saying “I-405.”
Q: Can you get around LA without a car?
A: Yes, if you’re traveling along major thoroughfares, it is possible to get around LA without a car. There’s a robust system for public transportation in Los Angeles, including buses, subways, and light rail, allowing easy access across the metro area. Many residents also use ridesharing, biking, or walking for short trips.
Find the Best LA Neighborhoods for Every Lifestyle
As the largest city in California, Los Angeles has nearly 300 neighborhoods and suburbs, as well as a variety of cultural niches like Chinatown, Thai Town, Little Tokyo, and more. Families moving to the City of Angels can plant roots in safe, affordable neighborhoods like Playa Vista or Encino, where they’ll find plenty of things to do and some of the best public schools in LA. Meanwhile, singles and young professionals appreciate living in close proximity to great shopping, restaurants, and nightlife in SoCal neighborhoods like Echo Park and Venice. The cost of living and price points between Los Angeles neighborhoods varies, so while renting a home is popular in LA, there are several neighborhoods that are fine to buy a home in, too.
Q: What are the best neighborhoods for families in Los Angeles?
A: While Playa Vista or Encino are often chosen for their safety and affordability, some of the best family neighborhoods in LA include Brentwood, Eagle Rock, and Mar Vista, which offer laid-back vibes and tighter communities.
Benefit from Excellent Schools in Los Angeles
With more than 1,000 schools throughout the Los Angeles area, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is the second largest district in the U.S. Institutions like Windward School and Polytechnic School provide great options for private schools in LA, and high-ranking Los Angeles public schools like La Canada High School and The Science Academy STEM Magnet are also available. Additionally, Los Angeles offers several higher education institutions. While the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) has ranked as the top public university in the country several times, California State University was named the best in the nation for providing upward mobility to its students. The University of Southern California (USC) is home to the prestigious Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. Aspiring science and engineering students can enroll at the esteemed Caltech. And other specialized colleges like the American Film Institute and Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising are also located in Los Angeles.
Q: What are the top colleges in Los Angeles?
A: Los Angeles is home to some of the best colleges in California, including institutions like Caltech, UCLA, and USC.
Spend Time at Los Angeles Beaches & Parks
Since LA gets sunny weather 284 days of the year, you can enjoy all the lavish parks, scenic hiking trails, and beautiful beaches year-round when you’re living in Los Angeles! Catch some waves, sunbathe, or wade in the water at amazing LA beaches like Malibu Surfrider Beach, Venice Beach, and El Porto Beach. Spend the day fishing or watching the annual Lotus Festival boat races at Echo Park Lake. Venture over to Runyon Canyon Park, a 160-acre park that offers several hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline. Find pet-friendly outdoor activities like visiting Rosie’s Dog Beach, where your pup can splash in the ocean and fetch on the sand. Looking to get active? Sign up to participate in the Los Angeles Marathon or cheer on the runners from the sidelines. Or grab a bite on the patio at one of LA’s many dog-friendly restaurants!
Q: What are the best beaches to visit in Los Angeles?
A: Popular LA beaches include Malibu Surfrider Beach, Venice Beach, and El Porto Beach—perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or family outings throughout the warmer seasons.
Enjoy Family Things to Do in LA
Looking for family-friendly activities in LA? See the famous La Brea Tar Pits up close, as well as the many fossils that have been excavated from them over the years. Experience indoor and outdoor exhibits, including a collection of over 2,000 gems and more than 300 dinosaur fossils at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Learn about the cosmos and gaze up at the beautiful, starry sky through the Zeiss Telescopes at Griffith Observatory! Ride the iconic Ferris wheel, hit up the arcade, browse beachside shops, and watch street performers at the Santa Monica Pier. Let your little ones learn and explore exhibits like Arroyo Adventure and Physics Forest at Kidspace Children’s Museum. Or see exotic animals from around the world, like elephants, tigers, and more, at the Los Angeles Zoo.
Q: What are the best family-friendly activities in Los Angeles?
A: There are endless opportunities for family fun in Los Angeles—from exploring dinosaur fossils at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and stargazing at Griffith Observatory, to engaging with interactive exhibits at Kidspace Children’s Museum. Kids can also enjoy the rides, arcades, and performances on Santa Monica Pier.
Get Everything You Need for an Easier Move to Los Angeles, CA
Experience Artsy Things to Do in Los Angeles
While Los Angeles is known for its ties to the film industry, other forms of art and culture are celebrated in Tinseltown, too! Catch a symphony performance from the Los Angeles Philharmonic at Walt Disney Concert Hall. Watch a stunning pyrotechnic performance at the Hollywood Bowl. Enjoy live acts at The Music Center, a massive performing arts venue in Downtown Los Angeles where you can buy tickets for everything from ballet to musical theatre to opera. Admire Modernist paintings and contemporary photography at the largest art museum in the West, Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Art-lovers moving to Los Angeles will also enjoy the rotating contemporary exhibits at The Broad and Getty Museum. Find more murals, art installations, and statues throughout Los Angeles during downtown art walks. Visit the Hollyhock House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or see the works of up-and-coming artists at the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery at Barnsdall Art Park.
Q: Where can I see live performances in Los Angeles?
A: At iconic LA music venues like Walt Disney Concert Hall, Hollywood Bowl, and The Music Center in Downtown LA, you can catch opera, ballet, theater, and other concerts in Los Angeles. These venues host performances ranging from symphonies and musicals to Contemporary shows and special events.
Cheer On Your Favorite Sports Teams in Los Angeles
With multiple professional teams based in the area, it’s not surprising that sports are a big part of living in Los Angeles. Head to the famous Crypto.com Arena (formerly the Staples Center) to catch the Los Angeles Lakers (NBA), Los Angeles Clippers (NBA), and Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA) dribbling on the court—or the Los Angeles Kings (NHL) shredding the ice. Go wild with the crowd when the Los Angeles Galaxy (MLS) score at Dignity Health Sports Park. See the Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) (MLS) score goals on their home turf at BMO Stadium. Cheer on home teams Los Angeles Rams (NFL) and Los Angeles Chargers (NFL) at SoFi Stadium. Or watch a play-off game between teams from across the country at Rose Bowl Stadium, also known as “America’s Stadium.” Be sure to sport blue and support six-time World Series champions Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB) at Dodger Stadium.
Q: Which professional sports teams are based in Los Angeles?
A: Greater LA has multiple pro teams, including the Lakers and Clippers (NBA), Sparks (WNBA), Angels and Dodgers (MLB), Rams and Chargers (NFL), Ducks and Kings (NHL), Angel City FC (NWSL), LA Galaxy (MLS), and Los Angeles FC (LAFC).
Find Fun Things to Do in Hollywood
Home to Hollywood—often called “The Entertainment Capital of the World“—LA is the main hub for America’s film and entertainment industry. The city houses major production studios like Paramount Pictures, Universal Studios, and Warner Bros, which not only produce box office hits but are also great LA attractions to visit on a tour or as a studio audience member! Find more things to do in Hollywood like the Hollywood Wax Museum, where you can take photos with wax celebrities. See the nearly 3,000 stars honoring the accomplishments of Hollywood achievers on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Or look for your favorite star’s handprints and footprints, or watch current releases as well as special showings and events at the TCL Chinese Theatre, also known as Grauman’s Chinese Theatre.
Q: Can visitors experience live film or TV productions in Hollywood?
A: Yes! Many Hollywood studios offer tours, allowing audiences to attend live tapings of TV shows and gain a behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry.
Stay On-Trend with LA Fashion
In terms of fashion, Los Angeles runs the gamut—from runway collections designed by Oscar de la Renta to quirky finds in vintage clothing stores. Covering 100 blocks, the LA Fashion District offers an extensive variety of independently-owned stores. Be sure to also check out over 150 retailers at The Santee Alley, an open-air shopping corridor in LA’s Fashion District. Head to Rodeo Drive and shop at luxury retailers like Jimmy Choo or Prada. Find more designer brands when you visit Third Street Promenade. Check out everything from name-brand fashion to one-of-a-kind street clothes at The Sunset Strip. Fashion lovers moving to Los Angeles can also attend events like LA Fashion Week and many other fashion shows throughout the year.
Q: What fashion shows are in LA?
A: There are countless fashion shows and events held year-round. The most well-known fashion show in Los Angeles is LA Fashion Week, where attendees can browse independent designer stores or explore vintage and streetwear collections throughout the city.
Shop Local at LA Farmers Markets
People moving to LA can expect to see plenty of farmers markets. The Original Farmers Market and Grand Central Market are some of the most well-known markets in the city—with produce vendors, drink stands, sit-down restaurants, and candy shops galore—but nearly every Los Angeles neighborhood has its own unique farmers market. Listen to live music while picking out delectable sweet corn at the Hollywood Farmers Market. Take your kids to the petting zoo after enjoying some artisanal bread at the Studio City Farmers Market. Or pick up new arrangements in LA’s Flower District when you visit the Flower Market, the largest wholesale flower market in the U.S.
Q: Are there family-friendly farmers markets in Los Angeles?
A: Yes! Many markets—such as the Studio City Farmers Market, which features a petting zoo—offer kid-friendly activities alongside fresh foods, flowers, and artisan goods.
Visit World-Class Los Angeles Restaurants
Finding new places to eat will never be an issue when you’re living in Los Angeles, which has over 26,000 restaurants! If you’re a fan of breakfast food and tasty cocktails, order the Lumberjack Breakfast with a Sunrise Mimosa at Poppy + Rose. Try the House Dog or the Dirty Chili Dog with Deep Fried Oreos for dessert at Dirt Dog. Eat authentic Italian dishes like fresh-made Spaghetti, Gnocchi, and Tiramisu at Pasta Sisters. Savor Musso’s Flannel Cakes, Filet Mignon, or Fried Oysters at the acclaimed Musso & Frank Grill. Have a date night with unique dishes like Lobster Pop Tarts and Korean BBQ Short Rib in a quirky, yet upscale atmosphere at Barton G. The Restaurant. Foodies will also love exploring great cuisine from around the world, from Chinatown eateries to mouthwatering spots throughout Little Armenia and beyond. Head to Koreatown for some delicious Korean BBQ at spots like Daedo Sikdang, where the Daedo Bulgogi is a must-try. Or treat yourself to an Omakase Course with some of the best sushi in Los Angeles at Takeda.
Q: What are some of the best restaurants in LA?
A: Iconic spots like Providence, Musso & Frank Grill, and n/naka offer memorable dishes ranging from classic fine-dining in Los Angeles to more modern, creative cuisine options.
Party in Los Angeles Nightclubs & LA Bars
The city has a variety of fun bars and LA nightlife spots where you can catch up with friends, grab drinks with coworkers, or dance the night away. Check out scenic views of Los Angeles, have a blast on the electric dance floor, and savor delicious drinks at The Rooftop. Dance to a mix of Latin tunes, Billboard hits, and other high-energy music at the Mayan Night Club. Go to the Showgirls drag show every Monday at Micky’s West Hollywood. Visit three venues in one night when you experience the Hollywood Club Crawl. Enjoy themed cocktails like The Joker or The Lover at a playful, vintage venue, The Little Friend. Or sip on an Angel City IPA and get a group of friends together for trivia night at one of the top LA hotspots for craft beer at Angel City Brewery.
Q: Where do celebrities usually hang out in LA?
A: Celebrities in LA have been spotted at hotels Chateau Marmont and Beverly Wilshire, as well as private clubs like Soho House West Hollywood.
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