Los Angeles has its share of pricey areas, but there are also affordable spots for those on a budget. Discover LA neighborhoods with the lowest living costs, including median home values and rents. Once you’ve picked your spot, use a top moving company Los Angeles has for an easy move.
LA Cost Of Living
Yes, LA is an expensive area to live in. Before digging deeper into the LA neighborhoods with the lowest living costs, let’s check the overall one. Namely, for one person, the cost of living with rent is $3165, while for a family of four, the cost is $7625. This makes LA one of the most expensive cities. However, the median after-tax salary is $6398, which is enough to cover living expenses for 2 months, according to Livingcost.org. but don’t let this frighten you; you can actually find areas with the lowest living costs.
LA neighborhoods with the lowest living costs
While the City of Angels is famous for its upscale living, it still has some gems accessible to people with lower incomes. That said, here are some of the most pocket-friendly areas in LA that one can find:
- Hancock Park
- Westlake North
- Chinatown
- Northridge & Northridge East
- Victor Heights
- Valley Glen
- Crenshaw
Hancock Park
Hancock Park offers a mix of elegance at a more reasonable price than other areas. The median home value, being $1,518,364, is far from the cheapest there is. However, rent falls under the more comfortable $2,281. The area boasts tree-lined streets, historic homes, and proximity to local parks. Residents can enjoy leisurely strolls, visit the nearby Los Angeles County Museum of Art, or dine in quaint cafes and eateries. If you’re considering a move, check out movers Los Angeles County residents have already relied on, and soon enough, you’ll be enjoying this neighborhood in its full glory.
Westlake North
Westlake North has a median home value of $772,215 and rents around $1,232. It’s an affordable spot with a touch of city charm. The area showcases LA’s cultural diversity and makes it possible for residents to enjoy the city’s vibe without breaking the bank.
Chinatown
Chinatown has a mix of old and new, with homes priced around $685,727 and rents about $1,747. It’s a fun place to live with markets, food spots, and events. An interesting fact is that the first Chinatown in LA was established in 1880 around Alameda and Macy Streets, which is now Cesar Chavez Avenue. It’s one of LA’s places where you get good value for your money. If you’re thinking of moving here, know that local movers Los Angeles inhabitants trust can help.
Northridge & Northridge East
If you like the idea of living in the suburbs, Northridge and Northridge East are good choices, with local homes priced around $721,823 and rent of around $2,103. These areas are quiet, have good local spots, and are great for both families and single folks. An interesting tidbit is that Northridge is home to California State University, Northridge, which makes it the place to be for students.
Victor Heights
Victor Heights is a lesser-known spot in LA with properties that cost around $1,087,078 on average and rents of $1,794. Even with a median household income of $56,365, people here live comfortably and enjoy what the area offers. The neighborhood was named after Victor Beaudry, a French-Canadian who became a significant figure during the California Gold Rush. It’s a place that provides a good quality of life and one that you can inhabit as well after you’ve engaged packing services Los Angeles professionals to assist with the most tedious part of the moving process.
Valley Glen
Valley Glen, where homes average around $724,000 and rents are about $1,565, is a peaceful spot in LA’s San Fernando Valley. It’s not just about the prices; it’s about the vibe. This area, which was once part of Van Nuys and North Hollywood, has grown into its own identity. A standout feature is the Great Wall of Los Angeles, a massive mural that tells the story of California’s history. Living in Valley Glen means being close to nature, having essential amenities nearby, and enjoying a community feel. If you’re thinking of settling here, it’s a place where you can get value for your money.
Crenshaw
Crenshaw is known for its culture, history, and affordability, with homes averaging $875,782 and rents around $1,417. It’s a place where neighbors know each other and live comfortably without overspending. An interesting bit of history is that Crenshaw Boulevard, a main street in the area, was named after George Lafayette Crenshaw, a banker and real estate developer. Besides its rich history, Crenshaw has been a significant part of black LA culture.
Cheapest places to live near LA
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of LA but still be close to it, check out these places:
- Lancaster: 70 miles away from LA, Lancaster offers a median rent of $1,863.
- Santa Clarita: For those who like living in suburbs with a strong sense of community, Santa Clarita will provide you with it. The median rent is $1,795.
- Norwalk: Only 20 miles distance from LA Downton. However, the rent is a bit higher than the previous two. You can expect to pay rent costs an average of $2,215.
So, if you want to move to LA area, hire residential movers Los Angeles offers and settle down in no time.
Government programs and community support
Los Angeles understands the importance of providing affordable housing options. The city’s government and community programs work together to ensure that residents can access resources to help alleviate housing costs. There are many low-income housing initiatives and rental assistance programs. These efforts aim to make neighborhoods in the City of Angels more accessible to a broader demographic.
Money-saving tips for LA residents
Living in LA doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. Here are some valuable tips for saving money while enjoying all that the city has to offer:
- Utilize the city’s expanding public transportation system to reduce the costs of owning a car.
- Explore local farmers’ markets for fresh produce at reasonable prices.
- Take advantage of free or low-cost cultural events, concerts, and festivals LA hosts annually.
- Cook meals at home and prepare a weekly meal plan to save on dining expenses.
- Consider shared housing arrangements or roommate situations to split costs.
- Implement energy-saving practices at home to reduce utility bills.
- Take full advantage of the outdoors by enjoying free hikes, picnics, and beach days.
In need of additional space?
Low rentals come with small space. However, don’t let this lower your spirits. You can always count on the storage units Los Angeles companies offer. You can use these in the short or long term. So, whether you are living in a temporary home or simply want to downsize without getting rid of things, choose our storage moving services at affordable prices.
Embrace affordability in one of the LA neighborhoods with the lowest living costs
Looking to stretch your dollar in the City of Angels? Dive into LA neighborhoods with the lowest living costs! From the classic beauty of Hancock Park to the lively vibes of Westlake North, the city’s got a spot for every budget. What’s more, its commitment to affordable housing means you don’t have to miss out on all the fun. So, whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just someone looking for a cozy corner in the city, LA welcomes you with open arms.
References:
Los Angeles, CA: Cost of Living, Prices for Rent & Food. (2020, July 27). Livingcost.org. https://livingcost.org/cost/united-states/ca/los-angeles
Hancock Park – Los Angeles, CA. (n.d.). Niche. https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/n/hancock-park-los-angeles-ca/
Westlake – Los Angeles, CA. (n.d.). Niche. https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/n/westlake-los-angeles-ca/
Chinatown – Los Angeles, CA. (n.d.). Niche. https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/n/chinatown-los-angeles-ca/
Northridge – Los Angeles, CA. (n.d.). Niche. https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/n/northridge-los-angeles-ca/
Is Victor Heights, Los Angeles a Good Place To Live? | ZeroDown. (n.d.). ZeroDown. https://zerodown.com/quality-of-life/victor-heights–los-angeles–ca
Valley Glen – Los Angeles, CA. (n.d.). Niche. https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/n/valley-glen-los-angeles-ca/
Baldwin Hills/Crenshaw – Los Angeles, CA. (n.d.). Niche. https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/n/baldwin-hills-crenshaw-los-angeles-ca/
Johnson, K. (2024, February 23). 12 cheapest places to live near LA, according to PropertyClub. FOX 11. https://www.foxla.com/news/la-cheapest-places-to-live-2024