WEST LOS ANGELES COUNTY
County Offices
500 West Temple Street
Los Angeles 213-974-1311
www.lacounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
350 South Bixel Street
Los Angeles 213-580-7500
www.lachamber.com
Services
Newcomers to Los Angeles County can look forward to an array of state-of-the-art healthcare services and facilities that stand prepared to meet every need. Rehabilitation facilities, long-term care, skilled nursing centers, home health care, and hospices are some of the components of a comprehensive network of resources. With Southern California’s emphasis on well being and healthy lifestyles, many community hospitals have developed sweeping programs for education in vital areas like nutrition and fitness or public health screenings.
Education is another area where Los Angeles County excels, from the internationally recognized public University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) to prestigious private institutions like the Claremont Colleges or Pepperdine University. Throughout the region, community colleges provide an affordable, quality higher education on beautiful campuses. Vocation and technical institutes, career training centers, and a myriad of specialty schools encourage the development of individual interests.
Students, commuters, visitors, and residents alike will appreciate the vast network of transportation facilities within the county and the region. Los Angeles International Airport and Long Beach Airport combine with smaller facilities like the Van Nuys Airport and Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport to meet every aviation need. Freeways, interstates, and major highways form a solid network of connections to all points. Metrolink commuter rail system and the Metro Rail system of light rails and subways offer alternatives to single-vehicle driving.
Quality Of Life
Home to Hollywood and the nation’s film industry, the sweeping expanse of Los Angeles County offers much more than glitter, glamour, and the legendary Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive shopping. Throughout the region, a kaleidoscope of urban centers, neighborhoods, suburbs, and communities provide a truly outstanding quality of life. Home options range from modest bungalows along quiet tree-shaded streets to elegant mansions or magnificent multi-million dollar estates nestled in elite hillside enclaves or perched above a Pacific Ocean view.
Beyond its prowess as a leading tourism magnet, Los Angeles County is a bustling economic center where electronic, computer, telecommunications, aerospace and other high-tech industries join grassroots manufacturing, retail, and service sectors. Sprawling malls with spectacular atriums, skylights, and architectural embellishments blend with antique district, factory outlet malls, and unique small-town districts. Every category “under the sun” boats world-class representation in Los Angeles County, from museums and aquariums to cultural organizations, performing arts., leisure attractions, and recreational sites.
Dances, concerts, parties, competitive sports, private clubs, celebrations, outdoor recreation, seashore water sports, and a whirlwind calendar of special events contribute to the prevailing youthful and vibrant attitude toward life. People of all ages are anxious to mingle and socialize with friends and neighbors in an endless variety of activities. In the midst of the seemingly endless opportunities, lifestyles, environments, and communities within this region, newcomers will discover that the warmth and friendliness of their new neighbors is the true treasure of the “Golden State.”
Beverly Hills
Municipal Offices
310-285-1000
www.beverlyhills.org
Chamber of Commerce
310-248-1000
www.beverlyhillschamber.com
Originally opening as a subdivision in 1907, Beverly Hills is famous for its magnificent landscaping, palatial estates, immaculate streetscapes, and famous–or at least wealthy residents. Approximately 90 percent of the city is zoned specifically for residential use. Although the city has a reputation as a haven for the elite and affluent, the actual diversity of housing is surprising. Santa Monica Boulevard bisects Beverly Hills, and most of the more opulent homes grace the hills north of the boulevard. Nestled among the mansions is an abundance of prestigious shopping, upscale dining, luxurious spas, and vibrant galleries. Eight parks and three country clubs are also located within the city. The world-renowned campus of UCLA is located one mile from Beverly Hills.
Baldwin Hills
County Offices
213-974-1311
www.lacounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
213-580-7500
www.lachamber.com
Baldwin Hills is an unincorporated tract of land located just five miles from the ocean. Encompassing three neighborhoods –View Park, Windsor Hills, and Ladera Heights —this area offers a variety of housing styles. Most of the homes in Baldwin Hills were constructed after 1950, and many were situated on view lots. With the abundance of employment centers nearby, most residents enjoy a quick commute. Los Angeles International Airport is located just three miles south of Baldwin Hills. Newcomers will find some appealing amenities such as a regional park with a lake and hiking trails, a community college, a shopping mall and a library.
Brentwood
City Offices
925-516-5400
www.brentwoodca.gov
Chamber of Commerce
213-580-7500
www.lachamber.com
Located mostly in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains. One of the movie entertainment towns, Brentwood is dominated by gracious mansions and homes set amidst the hills that offer spectacular views. Most three and four-bedroom homes were built in the 1950s and 1960s, with lush trees and shrubs shading the meandering roads. Brentwood is also the home to the Getty Museum and Mount Saint Mary’s College. Several parks are located nearby, as well as two golf courses.
Culver City
Municipal Offices
310-253-5851
www.culvercity.org
Chamber of Commerce
310-287-3850
www.culvercitychamber.com
Proud of its status as “The Heart of Screenland,” Culver City offers a culturally diverse environment with an attractive housing selection that appeals to many upwardly mobile middle-class families. The eastern end offers tree-shaded neighborhoods of single-family homes, while the western side features more rental properties. The natural feature of Ballona Creek flows through the community, providing panoramic views for nearby homes. Culver City has served as a hub for the motion picture industry since the early part of the 20th century, with industry giants like Sony Studios providing a stable employment base. Although the city covers just five square miles, it offers more than three million square feet of retails space and draws regional shoppers. Major medical centers and colleges are nearby, including the West Los Angeles College campus just to the east in Baldwin Hills. Marina del Rey is just five miles from the heart of Culver City, adding premier recreational and entertainment options close to home.
Echo Park
Los Angeles City Offices
213-473-3231
www.lacity.org
Chamber of Commerce
213-580-7500
www.lachamber.com
Echo Park is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Los Angeles. It is made up of Spanish style homes and beautifully restored bungalows and cottages that line its rolling hills and steep bluffs. The geography combined with the character of the homes, gives this area a wonderful neighborhood feel.
Hancock Park
LA City Offices
213-473-3231
www.lacity.org
Chamber of Commerce
www.westlachamber.org
The serene community of Hancock Park features elegant, grand homes and estates along lush, tree-lined lanes. Many of the homes in this area were designed by famous architects like Paul Williams and Wallace Neff, combining with trendy boutiques, upscale shops, antique dealers, and convenient services for a truly enchanting atmosphere. Larchmont Boulevard serves as the commercial corridor, with other premier shopping areas nearby such as Melrose Avenue, Rodeo Drive, and the Beverly Center. Outdoor enjoyment is close to home in the Santa Monica Mountains, where residents can enjoy biking and hiking. Golfing, beach water sports, and winter sports are easily accessible.
Hollywood, Hollywood Hills
Los Angeles City Offices
213-473-3231
www.lacity.org
Chamber of Commerce
323-469-8311
www.hollywoodchamber.net
The Hollywood sign overlooking the town from its lofty elevation on Mount Lee in Griffith Park used to say “Hollywoodland” before it was shortened in 1945. A wide variety of old and new housing options meet the needs of a diverse population. Most of the area’s single-family homes are located high in the hills, many of them occupied by professionals in the entertainment industry. Some of Southern California’s most popular attractions are located in Hollywood: The Hollywood Walk of Fame, the world’s most famous sidewalk recognizing famous personalities with a star tribute; Mann’s Chinese Theater, featuring hand and footprints of legendary movie stars; Griffith Park, the largest city park in United States; the Hollywood Bowl, an 18,000-seat amphitheater that also serves as the summer home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra; and Melrose Avenue, famous for its fashion boutiques, galleries, trendy restaurants, and antique shops.
Los Angeles
Municipal Offices
213-473-3231
www.lacity.org
Chamber of Commerce
213-580-7500
www.lachamber.com
Founded in 1781, Los Angeles has always been known as a city of diversity, both culturally and economically. Today, people from over 140 countries speaking approximately 96 different languages call this sprawling metropolis home. The city is known best as the entertainment capital of the world, but it also serves as the number one import and export port center in the USA. Los Angeles is comprised of two regions, divided by the Santa Monica Mountains: the Basin (south) and the San Fernando Valley (north). Newcomers will be greeted by a seemingly endless selection of neighborhoods with older homes and newer construction in many different styles. Los Angeles stands as a national leader in culture, education, and entertainment. The city boasts a myriad of world-class libraries, attractions, parks, arenas, concert halls, entertainment venues, beaches, and museums.
Los Feliz
County Offices
213-974-1311
www.lacounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
213-580-7500
www.lachamber.com
The charming Hollywood Hills neighborhood of Los Feliz is between Griffith Park to the north and Barnsdall Art Park to the south. Part of the city of Los Angeles, this district is full of the fun, excitement and colorful flair expected of Hollywood. Hillside homes, eclectic architecture and trendy boutiques — along with unique restaurants and a thriving nightlife, give the area a feeling of living and activity. Here you will find young families living side by side with long-time residents, providing a unique feeling of diversity and community.
Malibu
City Offices
310-456-2489
www.malibucity.org
Chamber of Commerce
310-456-9025
www.malibu.org
Malibu is a closely-knit residential community, incorporated as late as 1991. Along the 27-mile Pacific coastline, newcomers will discover a variety of climates and terrain, including beaches, mesas, and canyons that create a scenic backdrop for homes. Many film stars as well as the rich and famous maintain permanent or second homes in this area, and palatial mansions are common sights. Houses that are nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains area are often smaller and perched on rugged, steep terrain. Further north, where the terrain is flatter, luxurious homes command Pacific views. Commerce is limited to small businesses that dot the coastline, although Hughes Research Lab and Pepperdine University are located here. Regional parks, superb restaurants, and wonderful shops are available for recreation, entertainment, and diversion.
Mar Vista, Marina Del Rey, Venice
County Offices
213-974-1311
www.lacounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
213-580-7500
www.lachamber.com
The communities of Mar Vista and Venice are located south of Santa Monica. Mar Vista is built on flat land with panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles. Venice is legendary for its boardwalk, pier, colorful street entertainers, oceanfront bike path, Muscle Beach, an artist’s colony, and its notoriety as the birthplace of musical group, “The Doors.” Founder Abbot Kinney dreamed of turning Venice into a replica of its namesake European city, with canals, gondolas, piers, and Venetian-style structures. Although few canals remain, Venice offers beautiful homes along tree-lined streets, with most properties selling in the million-dollar range or more. Many artists are drawn to the carefree atmosphere and picturesque ambiance. Marina Del Rey is built around the largest man-made small watercraft harbor in the United States, with more than 6,000 pleasure boats and yachts.
Pacific Palisades
County Offices
213-974-1311
www.lacounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
310-459-7963
http://palisadeschamber.com
Founded in 1922, the prestigious community of Pacific Palisades enjoys an ideal location between Santa Monica and Malibu. Between the Santa Monica Mountains and the beaches of the Pacific Ocean, the palisades or high bluffs run for three miles along the coastline; and homes command breathtaking views of the Santa Monica Bay. Many of Southern California’s rich and famous have built their palatial estates and mansions against the backdrop of this natural beauty. The mesa neighborhoods offer a pleasing mix of older homes and newer construction, but regardless of the age-properties tend to be meticulously landscaped and well maintained. Area attractions include the Paul Getty Museum, Will Rogers Park, Temescal Canyon Park, and the Riviera Country Club.
Playa Del Rey, Westchester
County Offices
213-974-1311
www.lacounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
213-580-7500
www.lachamber.com
Surrounded by wetlands and the Pacific Ocean, Playa Del Rey claims beautiful wide beaches that are ideal for playing volleyball and flying kites. A path winds by the sand and ocean, filled with bikers, skaters and joggers enjoying the ocean breeze. A pedestrian bridge even connects the town to its sister city, Marina Del Rey. Both Playa Del Rey and Westchester, located just north of Los Angeles Airport, are handsome towns. Playa Del Rey is comprised of gentle hills and mesas where lovely homes take advantage of the ocean vistas. Playa Del Rey is also the home of Loyola Marymount University. Westchester is located to the east, where most of the housing was constructed in the 1950s and 1960s. However, the community offers a selection of upscale newer construction. A golf course, a recreation center, and four parks provide opportunities for recreation.
Playa Vista
County Offices
213-974-1311
www.lacounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
www.westlachamber.org
As a recently established Westside community, Playa Vista finely balances residential, commercial, and retail space to offer an exceptional atmosphere. Just one mile from Pacific Ocean water-sport recreation, Playa Vista is nestled below the bluffs of Westchester. The community is adjacent to the newly restored Ballona Freshwater Marsh and within easy reach of Santa Monica, Venice, Century City, and Los Angeles International Airport. Newcomers will discover a vibrant, modern community where attractive neighborhoods are lined with lovely homes that range from single-family models to townhouses, condominiums, and handsome lofts. The commitment to preservation of habitat combined with suburban conveniences in a community that creates small-town charm in the midst of the “big city.”
Santa Monica
Municipal Offices
310-458-8411
www.smgov.net
Chamber of Commerce
310-393-9825
www.smchamber.com
A popular tourist destination as well as a pleasing residential community, Santa Monica is home to the famous Santa Monica pier and its historic carousel. This beach city located west of Beverly Hills also features Pacific Park amusement park. Main Street, Montana Avenue and the Third Street Promenade offer shopping, boutiques, art galleries and restaurants for visitors and residents alike. This area also offers a panoramic coastline with beautiful beaches and several parks. To the north of Montana Avenue, beautiful homes line tree-shaded streets to create an idyllic and welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
Silver Lake
County Offices
213-974-1311
www.lacounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
323-203-7459
www.silverlakechamber.com
Originally named “Ivanhoe” and later “Edendale,” the neighborhood was named after the man-made reservoir which lies at its center. “Silver Lake” was named not in reference to a color but after Herman Silver, a member of Los Angeles’ first Board of Water Commissioners. The homes that are built around the lake in this area east of Hollywood are Spanish styled and, designed and built be many famous mid-century architects.
West Hollywood
Municipal Offices
323-848-6400
www.weho.org
Chamber of Commerce
323-650-2688
www.wehochamber.com
Incorporated in 1984, the town of West Hollywood is a pedestrian-friendly community that is also known for its diversity. Undoubtedly most famous as the home of Southern California’s legendary Sunset Strip, West Hollywood is home to a vibrant, colorful collection of novelty shops, nightclubs, and eateries. The majority of residents live in multi-family housing that is dominated by two and three-story apartment complexes. Still, many neighborhoods of single homes are scattered throughout the area. Commercial properties include hotels, movie studios, a mall, and the largest interior design complex in the western United States. A very adult-oriented city, West Hollywood claims few school-age children living within its boundaries.
West Los Angeles
LA City Offices
213-473-3231
www.lacity.org
Chamber of Commerce
www.westlachamber.org
Bordered by Santa Monica to the south, Culver City to the north, and Westside to the east, West Los Angeles enjoys an ideal location. This area is a ten-minute drive from the renowned Santa Monica beaches and offers close proximity to a wealth of attractions including Topanga State Park, the Will Rogers State Historic Park, Bel-Air, Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive, the J. Paul Getty Museum, and movie studios. Just minutes from sea breezes and the University of California Los Angeles campus, West Los Angeles provides a community feeling and the considerable benefits of Westside living. Newcomers will find a mix of single-family homes in attractive neighborhoods as well as condominiums and townhomes. Major shopping malls, entertainment and cultural venues, healthcare facilities, lush parks, and private sports clubs are all a part of the suburban scene. Interstate 405 ensures quick commutes to metropolitan destinations.
Westwood
Los Angeles City Offices
213-473-3231
www.lacity.org
Chamber of Commerce
213-580-7500
www.lachamber.com
The communities that are clustered around the campus for the University of California-Los Angeles have been characterized as upscale, middle-class professional with a pleasing mix of collegiate style. To the south of the Rancho Park and Hillcrest golf courses is Cheviot Hills, dominated by well-appointed homes that were constructed around World War II. Rancho Park is northwest of the golf course—a place where towering high-rise buildings stand above the clusters of comfortable single-family homes along tree-shaded streets. Further north, the neighborhood of Century City also incorporates some high-rise office buildings among its mix of residential housing. With the vibrant UCLA forming the heart of the area, many streets are lined with a variety of bookstores, college sports facilities, shops, cafes, museums, and restaurants. The atmosphere is youthful, stimulating, culturally rich, and magnetic. Newcomers will also appreciate the short seven-mile trip to the Pacific Ocean, inviting a wide variety of water sports.
