Finding an apartment in LA is different from other cities. The sprawl means your neighborhood choice heavily depends on where you work, and you'll likely need a car. But the good news? LA has more inventory than many expensive cities, and you won't pay broker fees. Here's everything you need to know.
Step 1: Set Your Budget
Before you start looking, know your numbers:
- Monthly rent: Aim to spend no more than 30% of gross income (though many LA residents spend 35-40%)
- Income requirement: Most landlords require 2.5-3x monthly rent in gross income
- Upfront costs: First month + security deposit (up to 2 months unfurnished)
LA Rent Calculator
Step 2: Choose Your Neighborhood
LA is huge—503 square miles. Your neighborhood choice should be based primarily on where you work. A "cheap" apartment with a 90-minute commute isn't actually a deal.
The Commute Rule
In LA, always check commute time during rush hour before committing to a neighborhood. Use Google Maps with "Leave at 8am Monday" to get realistic estimates. What looks like 20 minutes on a map can be 60+ in traffic.
See our complete neighborhood guide by budget →
Step 3: Where to Search
The best websites and apps for finding LA apartments:
Apartments.com / Zillow / Trulia
Biggest inventory. Good filters. Mix of large complexes and individual listings.
Craigslist
Still popular for individual landlords. More scams, so be careful. Often best for finding deals.
Facebook Marketplace / Groups
Good for sublets and roommate situations. Join neighborhood-specific groups.
Westside Rentals
LA-specific site. Requires subscription but has exclusive listings.
Walking Around
Many landlords in LA still use "For Rent" signs. Drive or walk your target neighborhood.
Step 4: Research the Building
Before scheduling a tour, research the building. Bad landlords mean maintenance nightmares, and LA has older building stock with varying quality.
Check Building Quality on StreetSmart
Search any LA address to see code violations, building history, and quality scores. Know what you're getting into before you tour.
Search a BuildingThings to research:
- LAHD violations — Check for code violations and complaints
- RSO status — Is it rent-controlled? Big benefit for stability
- Landlord reviews — Google the property management company
- Building age — Older buildings may lack A/C, parking, modern amenities
Step 5: Tour the Apartment
When you tour, check for:
Inside the Unit
- • Water pressure (run all faucets)
- • A/C and heating work
- • Cell phone signal
- • Outlets and light fixtures
- • Appliances (stove, fridge, dishwasher)
- • Closet and storage space
- • Signs of pests or mold
Building & Neighborhood
- • Parking situation and cost
- • Laundry (in-unit, building, or none)
- • Package delivery system
- • Noise from street or neighbors
- • Security (gates, locks, lighting)
- • Trash and recycling setup
- • Street parking availability
Step 6: Gather Your Documents
Have these ready before you apply:
- Photo ID — Driver's license or passport
- Proof of income — 2-3 recent pay stubs
- Employment verification — Letter from employer or offer letter
- Tax returns — Last 1-2 years (sometimes required)
- Bank statements — 2-3 months
- Landlord references — Contact info for previous landlords
- Credit check authorization — Most landlords will run credit
Complete document checklist for first-time renters →
Step 7: Apply Quickly
Good apartments in LA move fast. When you find one you like:
- Submit application same day — Have documents ready to upload
- Pay application fee — Usually $30-50 per applicant
- Be responsive — Answer calls and emails from the landlord quickly
- Have deposit ready — Be prepared to pay holding deposit if approved
Step 8: Read the Lease Carefully
Before signing, review:
- Rent amount and due date
- Lease length — Usually 12 months
- Security deposit amount — Max 2 months for unfurnished (know your rights)
- Pet policy — Deposits, monthly fees, breed restrictions
- Parking — What's included, additional costs
- Utilities — What's included vs. what you pay
- Renewal terms — What happens after lease ends
- Early termination — Penalties for breaking lease
Watch for Red Flags
- • Security deposit over 2 months (illegal in CA for unfurnished)
- • No written lease
- • Pressure to sign immediately without reading
- • Requests for cash or wire transfer
Avoiding Scams
LA rental scams are common, especially on Craigslist. Red flags:
- Price is way below market rate
- "Landlord is out of town" — can't show apartment
- Requests wire transfer or payment before seeing unit
- Listing photos look stolen or professional but address doesn't match
- Pressure to pay immediately to "hold" the unit
Read our complete guide to avoiding rental scams →
LA-Specific Tips
- Check for A/C — Many older LA buildings don't have it. The Valley and inland areas get very hot.
- Parking is crucial — Always ask about parking. Street parking in popular areas is a nightmare.
- Look for RSO buildings — Rent-stabilized units offer stability and tenant protections.
- Consider the 101/405/10 — If you need to commute on these freeways, live close to an on-ramp.
- Guest parking matters — Many buildings have zero guest parking. Consider this if you have visitors.