Helpful Relocation Resources for Los Angeles, CA Newcomers
Relocating to Los Angeles, CA? Whether you're still coordinating your move date or you've just picked up the new keys, this guide brings together the resources, costs, and local information you need when moving to Los Angeles. From moving costs and the best moving companies to a first 30-day checklist and local resource directory, here's everything to help you get settled in LA.
Planning Your Move to Los Angeles
💰 How Much Does It Cost to Move to Los Angeles?
A local move around LA typically costs between $200-$5,660, while long-distance moves to generally run between $4,180-$17,700. For a detailed breakdown of LA moving rates, see our full guide.
🚛 Best Moving Companies in Los Angeles
Still need to hire movers for your Los Angeles move? We've researched and compiled a list of the top moving companies in LA to help with your transition. See our top choices and get a quote today.
📦 Free & Cheap Moving Boxes in Los Angeles
From online marketplaces like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to local liquor stores and grocery retailers, there are several ways to find free or low-cost packing materials before your move.
Los Angeles Self Storage & Moving Day Logistics
Between lease agreements, home closing, and furniture needs, self storage can be helpful when moving to Los Angeles. Extra Space Storage offers facilities across the LA metro to help your transition.
Self Storage in Los Angeles
Extra Space Storage has locations throughout the Los Angeles area—from Hollywood to San Fernando Valley and beyond. Find a facility near your new home using the link below.
Nearby Storage Facilities
Near Harvard Heights: 2800 W Pico Blvd
Near Hollywood: 5825 Santa Monica Blvd
Near South Los Angeles: 1701 W Slauson Ave
Near San Fernando Valley: 9635 Van Nuys Blvd
Choosing the Right Storage Unit in Los Angeles
When selecting a storage unit in LA, consider these factors before renting:
Climate Control: Los Angeles temperatures regularly exceed 90°F in inland areas during summer months, and interior conditions in non-climate-controlled units can reach significantly higher. Climate-controlled units are recommended for furniture, electronics, documents, clothing, and anything sensitive to heat.
Unit Size: 5x5 (small closet or boxes), 5x10 (studio apartment), 10x10 (1-bedroom), 10x20 (2–3 bedroom home), 10x30 (large home or vehicle storage). → Storage Unit Size Guide
Access & Security: Find extended access or 24-hour access, electronic gate entry, on-site management, and video surveillance. → 24-Hour Storage Access
Lease Flexibility: Month-to-month leases mean you're not locked in—an important consideration when move timelines shift. Extra Space Storage offers flexible lease options so you can upgrade or downsize as your needs change.
🔄 How to Use Storage Between Homes
Lease gaps, closing delays, and staging situations are common during LA moves. Self storage can bridge the time between your move-out and move-in dates without putting your belongings in limbo. → Learn More About Short-Term Storage for Moving
Explore Los Angeles: Neighborhoods, Cost of Living, & What to Expect
The Los Angeles metro covers hundreds of distinct neighborhoods and dozens of incorporated cities. Commute times, cost of living, school quality, and walkability vary significantly by area. Use these guides to narrow your search before committing to a neighborhood.
📊 Cost of Living in Los Angeles
The cost of living in Los Angeles is nearly 50% higher than the national average, with housing costs as the primary driver. For a full breakdown by category—housing, transportation, groceries, healthcare, and more—see our Los Angeles cost of living guide.
⚖️ Pros & Cons of Los Angeles
Before and after a move, it helps to have a straightforward look at what life in Los Angeles involves. Learn the tradeoffs that don't always show up in a quick online search.
📖 Things to Know About Los Angeles
From navigating the freeway system to understanding local utility providers and neighborhood dynamics, some of the most practical information about living in LA isn't easy to find in one place. We've gathered it into the guide below!
🏘 Best Neighborhoods in Los Angeles
Safe, Affordable Neighborhoods in Los Angeles
While the cost of living in LA is high, some neighborhoods offer safety and affordability. Some neighborhoods to consider are Encino, Los Feliz, Mar Vista, and more.
Best Neighborhoods in LA for Singles & Young Professionals
Los Angeles is known for its sunny weather, entrepreneurial support, and lively nightlife. For young professionals, some neighborhoods that stand out include Beverlywood, Echo Park, Los Feliz, and more.
Best Neighborhoods in Los Angeles for Families
Moving to LA with family? The city offers areas with quieter streets, kid-friendly amenities, and great schools. Some top neighborhoods include Brentwood, Eagle Rock, Mar Vista, and more!
Your First 30 Days in Los Angeles: Quick-Start Checklist
The first month in a new city involves more administrative steps than most people plan for. This checklist organizes the key setup tasks by week so you can work through them in order.
Local Resources for New Los Angeles, CA Residents
This section covers the must-do setup tasks for new LA residents—from government and utilities to healthcare, schools, transportation, and financial considerations. Use the anchored sections below as your reference guide through your first weeks in the city.
🏛 Government & Administrative Setup in Los Angeles
New California residents need to get a driver's license, vehicle registration, voter registration, utility accounts, and pet licensing within the first few weeks of arriving. Here's what each involves in the City of Los Angeles.
Driver's License | New California residents must obtain a CA driver's license within 10 days of establishing residency. Required documents: proof of identity (U.S. passport or birth certificate plus Social Security card) and two proofs of CA residency (utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, etc.). A written knowledge test is required, though the driving test is typically waived when surrendering a valid out-of-state license. Apply in person at a CA DMV office—appointments are strongly recommended at LA-area locations due to high demand. Schedule at dmv.ca.gov. |
Vehicle Registration | Vehicles must be registered in California within 20 days of establishing residency. Most out-of-state vehicles require a smog check before registration can be completed. Find a licensed smog check station near you. After passing inspection, submit registration through the CA DMV website or at a local office. The registration fee is based on vehicle value. |
Voter Registration | Register to vote in California online. California also offers same-day voter registration at polling locations for eligible residents. |
Utilities Setup | Electricity and water within the City of Los Angeles are provided by LA Department of Water and Power. Start service online or by phone at (800) 342-5397. Confirm your electricity and water provider based on your specific address before starting service. Natural gas is provided by Southern California Gas Company. Start service online or call (800) 427-2200. Internet providers with broad LA coverage include Spectrum, AT&T Fiber, and Frontier Fiber. |
Pet Registration | Dog licenses in the City of Los Angeles are issued by LA Animal Services. Residents in unincorporated LA County areas should register through LA County Animal Care & Control. Annual renewal is required for both. |
🏫 School & Family Resources in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is served primarily by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), the largest school district in California and the second largest in the United States. Here's what to know about enrolling and exploring your options.
K–12 Public Schools | Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) serves the City of Los Angeles and several adjacent communities. Use the school explorer to locate schools by home address. |
School Enrollment | LAUSD starts new student enrollment in March. There are required documents such as proof of residency (utility bill or lease), birth certificate, and immunization records. Bring originals and copies. |
Charter & Private | California Private schools are fully private-pay. Charter school and private school directories are available through the California Department of Education. |
Higher Education | Major universities in Los Angeles include UCLA, USC, California State University Los Angeles, and multiple community colleges. The California residency requirement for UC and CSU in-state tuition is 366 days of physical presence in the state prior to enrollment. |
Child Care | California subsidized childcare programs are administered through the California Department of Social Services. LA County's Early Care & Education unit provides local program information and enrollment assistance. |
🏥 Healthcare in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is home to several major health systems with broad provider networks across the metro. Here's an orientation to the healthcare landscape as you get settled.
Major Health Systems | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center serves patients across the LA metro with a broad network of affiliated physicians. UCLA Health operates hospitals and outpatient clinics throughout the region. Keck Hospital of USC covers the central and east LA area. Kaiser Permanente Southern California operates an integrated insurance-and-care model across the metro. |
Finding a PCP | Use your insurance provider's online directory to find in-network primary care physicians in Los Angeles. Or explore the health systems above to find a provider. |
Urgent Care | CityMD operates multiple LA-area locations with walk-in availability. Providence Express Care offers urgent care with both walk-in and appointment options. Walk-in availability at Cedars-Sinai and UCLA Health urgent care locations varies by site—check before visiting. |
Mental Health | Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services is one of LA's largest community behavioral health organizations, offering outpatient, crisis, and substance use services. LA County Department of Mental Health is the county-level resource for public mental health services. Or call California's crisis line: 988. |
Pharmacy | CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid all have locations across the metro. Costco Pharmacy and Walmart Pharmacy offer free or reduced-cost generic prescription programs where available. |
🚗 Transportation in Los Angeles
Setting up transportation in Los Angeles involves a toll account, familiarity with the public transit network, and an understanding of the major freeway corridors. Here's what to address first.
Toll Pass Setup | California uses the FasTrak transponder system for toll roads statewide. Register online or purchase a transponder at retail partners, including Costco, Albertsons, and AAA offices throughout the LA area. Without a transponder, Toll-by-Plate billing applies—invoices are mailed to the registered vehicle owner with additional per-transaction fees. |
Key Toll Roads | I-110 Express Lanes (Harbor Freeway, from downtown to the South Bay), I-10 Express Lanes (Santa Monica Freeway, downtown to El Monte), SR-91 Express Lanes (eastern LA County, connecting to Riverside and Orange County). |
Public Transit | LA Metro operates the regional bus and rail network. The TAP card is the standard fare payment system—purchase and reload online or at station vending machines. Big Blue Bus serves Santa Monica and west LA. DASH buses operate within specific City of LA neighborhoods. |
Airport Access | Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the primary commercial airport. Rideshare pickup uses the LAX-it designated lot—not the terminals. The LAX FlyAway bus connects to Union Station, Van Nuys, and Westwood. Secondary options include Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Long Beach Airport (LGB), and John Wayne Airport in Orange County (SNA). |
Major Roadways | Key corridors for navigating the LA metro: I-5 (main north-south spine), I-405 (west side and South Bay), I-10 (east-west from Santa Monica through downtown), US-101 (Hollywood Freeway, from downtown through the San Fernando Valley), I-110 (Harbor Freeway, downtown to South Bay). |
💰 Financial & Legal Setup in Los Angeles
California has several state-specific financial requirements and considerations that are often overlooked by new residents. Here's what to address after your move.
State Income Tax | California has a progressive state income tax with rates from 1% to 13.3%. New California residents should update their employer W-4 withholding to reflect California income tax and notify their employer of the address change promptly. |
Homeowner's Exemption | LA County offers a $7,000 reduction in assessed value for owner-occupied primary residences. File with the LA County Assessor's Office. There is no strict filing deadline, though filing before February 15 of your first tax year is recommended. |
Homeowners Insurance | Standard homeowners policies in California typically exclude earthquake damage. Earthquake insurance is available separately through the California Earthquake Authority. Flood insurance is a separate policy through FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program. Wildfire risk is a significant factor in many LA hillside and foothill neighborhoods—confirm coverage details with your insurer. |
Vehicle Insurance | California minimum liability requirements are $30,000 per person/up to $60,000 per accident; $15,000 property damage. California does not require personal injury protection (PIP). Uninsured motorist coverage is available and recommended. |
Address Updates | Key parties to notify after your move are IRS, Social Security Administration, financial institutions, health insurance provider, and voter registration. |
🚨 Los Angeles Emergency Preparedness & Safety
Los Angeles-area residents face a distinct set of natural hazard risks, including earthquakes, wildfires, and seasonal flooding. Here's what to set up and where to find local emergency resources.
Emergency | 911 |
LAPD Non-Emergency | (877) 275-5273 |
Poison Control | 1-800-222-1222 |
CA Crisis Line | 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) |
Emergency Alerts | Register at Notify LA to receive LA County emergency notifications by address. |
Natural Disaster Info | Primary hazards in LA: earthquakes (year-round risk, no season), wildfires (peak risk June to November, especially in hillside and foothill neighborhoods), and flooding and mudslides following heavy rainfall. Review your specific neighborhood's risk profile at ReadyLA or with LA County Emergency Management. |
FEMA Flood Map | Check your address on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center to determine flood zone status; relevant for homeowners in flood-prone areas. |
💼 Employment Resources in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has one of the most economically diverse metros in the country, with major concentrations in entertainment, technology, healthcare, and aerospace. Here's where to start your search.
Major Industries | Main industries in LA include: entertainment and media, technology, healthcare, aerospace and defense, fashion and apparel, international trade and logistics. Find more regional economic data and employer statistics at LA County Economic Development Corporation. |
Top Employers | Entertainment: The Walt Disney Company, Warner Bros. Discovery, Netflix, Amazon Studios Technology: Google, SpaceX, Riot Games Healthcare: Cedars-Sinai, Kaiser Permanente Aerospace: Boeing, Northrop Grumman |
Job Search Tools | Use LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor and filter by Los Angeles for the widest reach. For technology roles, look to Built In LA. For entertainment industry positions, search EntertainmentCareers.net. |
State Job Portal | California Employment Development Department (EDD) has state-managed job listings, unemployment insurance, and workforce development programs. |
Unemployment Benefits | If newly unemployed after relocating, California unemployment insurance eligibility is based on wages earned in a prior 12-month base period—eligibility is not dependent on the current state of residence at the time of filing. |
Professional Networking | Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce for broad business community access. |
Staffing & Temp Agencies | Robert Half and Adecco both have established LA-area operations for contract and temp-to-hire placements across professional and technical disciplines. Useful for new residents seeking immediate income while a permanent search is underway. |
Los Angeles Community Resources & Amenities
After your move to LA, you can get familiar with a range of public resources and amenities.
Public Library: Los Angeles Public Library provides a free library card for LA residents, available at any of the system's 72 branch locations. A library card provides access to digital lending through Libby and Kanopy at no additional cost.
Parks & Recreation: City of Los Angeles parks are managed by the LA Department of Recreation and Parks. LA County parks operate as a separate system under LA County Parks and Recreation. The two systems are independent and residents should confirm which manages their nearest park based on address.
Neighborhood Associations & Civic Resources: The City of Los Angeles operates a Neighborhood Council system, consisting of over 100 councils citywide that cover distinct neighborhoods.
Local Media: The Los Angeles Times is the primary local daily newspaper. LAist, operated by Southern California Public Radio (KPCC), covers local news and community affairs.
Quinn Johnson
Quinn Johnson is a moving expert and author for Extra Space Storage. He's moved over 15 times, including internationally, and helped countless others between their own homes. He's happy to lift some boxes for a friend as long as he's paid in pizza. As a writer and content creator for Extra Space Storage since 2019, Quinn shares helpful moving tips and info to alleviate the common stresses of moving.
