Pros and Cons of Moving to Los Angeles

A sprawling city, Los Angeles is an iconic travel destination and home to nearly four million residents. Outdoorsy visitors can experience everything from its pleasant Mediterranean climate and famous beaches to its rugged mountains and enchanting deserts. But it's perhaps most famous for its entertainment industry, which is considered to be unrivalled around the world, and being home to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and all its trappings. 

Read on to find out more about the pros and cons of living in Los Angeles.

Lifestyle in Los Angeles

+ PRO: Progressive and diverse culture

Los Angeles is known for its progressive thinking, with a diverse population to match. The city's people are constantly at the forefront of social issues like climate change, LGBTQ+ rights and cannabis legalisation. 

The mix of cultures in the city also brings with it a vibrant, diverse and high-quality food scene, with specific neighbourhoods providing a wide selection of ethnic food options, from Ethiopian, Japanese or Persian to good old-fashioned American diners.

+ PRO: The great outdoors

The hot weather means Los Angeles is perfect for nature enthusiasts who can enjoy the city's offerings of gorgeous mountains, beaches and deserts year round. For those who want to ease into their outdoor routine, a relaxing day at Griffith Park in the Santa Monica Mountains would be perfect, and there are also luxurious hot springs in the city and surrounding areas. Of course, the beaches speak for themselves, with famous spots like Malibu, Long Beach and Venice Beach all waiting to be explored. The city is also synonymous with surfing, with Topanga, Hermosa, and Manhattan beaches all having world-famous breaks.

Getting around in Los Angeles

- CON: Extreme traffic congestion

Los Angeles is potentially just as renowned for its traffic as it is for being a celebrity hotspot. Indeed, congestion becomes a part of daily life when living in the City of Angels, with an estimated 102 hours a year spent in peak jams. Drivers can also forget about easy parking, as spaces are extremely limited.

- CON: Public transport isn't great

The public transport system in LA could be better, much of which can be attributed to a lack of demand as the vast majority of commuters choose to drive. While there are plans in the works to expand the Los Angeles Metro Rail System, new arrivals should not expect relief any time soon.

Cost of living in Los Angeles

- CON: Extremely expensive

California, as a whole, is a pricey state to live in, and LA is no exception. Fast food, alcoholic beverages and fuel prices are all high. Steep fuel prices are even more of an issue considering the large amount of car transport involved in traversing the incredibly spread-out city.

+ PRO: Buying smart can help

If you're savvy about your food purchases, things can be relatively affordable. By sticking to the produce aisle in a grocery store or frequenting farmer's markets, consumers can combat the high prices seen in cafés, restaurants and food chains.

Weather in Los Angeles

+ PRO: Lovely climate

The sunny skies of California mean the weather in Los Angeles is generally very pleasant, making its scenic beauty even more of a pleasure to live in. While the temperatures can get quite high, it's typically comfortably warm. With its Mediterranean climate, LA's summers are hot and dry, while winters tend to bring lower temperatures and more rainfall.

Working in Los Angeles

+ PRO: Diverse job market

Opportunities can be found in nearly every sector for those looking to work in Los Angeles. Unemployment rates have been low in recent times, and vacancies abound in everything from IT to logistics, though the city's main draw lies in its entertainment, fashion, and service industries. Start-ups are well-supported, and those in hospitality also enjoy competitive incomes.

- CON: High competition for jobs

While business is booming and there is a rich array of employers, the city also has one of the most competitive job markets in the country. This professional cut and thrust means newcomers must be prepared to work hard to grow in their careers. Getting a job in the first place might be pretty straightforward, but climbing to the higher salary echelons requires graft.

Accommodation in Los Angeles

+ PRO: Wide range of options

Los Angeles offers a diverse array of accommodation options to suit any preference or budget. From luxurious apartments in downtown LA to cosy bungalows in quieter neighbourhoods like Echo Park or Silver Lake, there's something for everyone. The city's vast size means you can choose between the bustling city centre, serene beachfront properties, or the more laid-back suburban life, each offering its unique lifestyle and amenities.

- CON: High cost of living

Accommodation costs in Los Angeles are significantly higher than in many other parts of the United States. The high demand for housing in popular areas drives up rent and purchase prices, making it challenging for newcomers to find affordable housing. Budgeting carefully and being flexible with your location choice can help mitigate this, but be prepared for the reality of higher living expenses.

+ PRO: Investment opportunities

The Los Angeles property market has historically shown strong growth, making it an attractive option for property investors. Whether you're looking to buy a property as a long-term investment or considering buying to let, LA's housing market offers potential for capital appreciation, especially in up-and-coming neighbourhoods. Conducting thorough research and perhaps consulting a real estate expert can uncover some promising opportunities.