Moving to Los Angeles is a dream for many—endless sunshine, world-class beaches, diverse neighborhoods, and career opportunities in entertainment, tech, and beyond. Whether you're relocating for work, school, or a fresh start, this guide covers everything you need to make your LA move successful.
Before You Move: Planning
1. Set Your Budget
LA is expensive, but more affordable than NYC or San Francisco. Before looking at apartments, know your numbers:
- The 2.5-3x rule: Most landlords require monthly income of 2.5-3x monthly rent. For a $2,500/month apartment, you need monthly income of $6,250-7,500.
- Upfront costs: First month + security deposit (up to 2 months unfurnished) = $5,000-7,500
- Monthly budget: Aim to spend no more than 30% of income on rent (though many LA residents spend more)
Don't meet income requirements? You'll need a guarantor or co-signer.
2. Consider Transportation
You'll Probably Need a Car
Unlike NYC, LA is a car city. While Metro is improving, most residents need a car. Factor in car payments, insurance ($150-300/mo), gas, and parking (often $100-300/mo extra) into your budget.
3. Choose Your Area
Westside
Santa Monica, Venice, West LA, Mar Vista. Beach access, trendy, expensive. Studios from $2,200.
Hollywood / West Hollywood
Nightlife, walkable areas, entertainment industry hub. Studios from $1,800. Great for young professionals.
Downtown LA (DTLA)
High-rise living, walkable, arts district vibes. Studios from $1,900. Growing food and nightlife scene.
San Fernando Valley
More affordable, suburban feel, hot summers. Studios from $1,500. Better value for space.
Silver Lake / Echo Park / Los Feliz
Hip, artsy, good coffee shops. Studios from $1,700. Popular with creatives.
See our complete neighborhood guide by budget →
4. Gather Documents Early
LA rental applications move fast, especially for good apartments. Have these ready:
- Government ID (passport works if no CA license yet)
- 2-3 recent pay stubs or offer letter
- Last 2 years tax returns
- Bank statements (2-3 months)
- Employment verification letter
- Previous landlord reference
- Credit report (many landlords will pull their own)
Finding an Apartment from Out of Town
Option 1: Visit in Person (Recommended)
The best approach is a "boots on the ground" trip:
- Plan a 4-7 day trip dedicated to apartment hunting
- Schedule 5-8 viewings per day (LA traffic means fewer than NYC)
- Be prepared to apply immediately when you find something good
- Have all documents and payment ready
Option 2: Remote Search
If you can't visit first:
- Use video tours (FaceTime/Zoom with landlord or agent)
- Ask for comprehensive photos and videos
- Research the building thoroughly before signing (use StreetSmart)
- Consider a short-term rental or sublet first, then find a long-term place
Scam Warning
Remote apartment hunting has high scam risk. Never send money without seeing an apartment or verifying the landlord. Learn how to avoid scams →
Research Buildings Before You Arrive
Search any LA address to see violations, landlord history, and building quality scores—so you can vet listings before your trip.
Search BuildingsTrue Cost of Moving to LA
Move-In Cost Calculator (for $2,500/month apt)
Relocation Timeline
Months Before
Set budget, research neighborhoods, gather documents, start saving for upfront costs, decide on car situation
Weeks Before
Plan apartment hunting trip, start browsing listings, arrange temporary housing if needed
Weeks Before
Schedule viewings, visit LA, view apartments, apply for ones you like
Week Before
Sign lease, arrange movers, set up utilities, change address
After You Move
First Week Checklist
- Set up utilities (LADWP for water/power, SoCalGas for gas)
- Get internet installed (Spectrum, AT&T, or local options)
- If driving, get familiar with routes and traffic patterns
- Get a TAP card for Metro if using transit
- Explore your neighborhood on foot
- Take photos of your apartment's condition (for move-out)
First Month
- Get a California driver's license (required within 10 days of establishing residency)
- Register your vehicle (within 20 days)
- Register to vote
- Find a doctor and dentist
- Get renters insurance
- Apply for street parking permit if needed
Tips from LA Locals
- Learn LA geography: The city is massive. What looks close on a map could be a 45-minute drive.
- Avoid rush hour: Morning (7-10am) and evening (4-7pm) traffic is brutal. Plan your commute accordingly.
- Download Waze: Essential for navigation and avoiding traffic.
- Check parking before signing: Many buildings charge $100-300/mo for parking, or don't include it at all.
- Don't underestimate the Valley: It's hotter but more affordable, with lots of space.
- Microclimates are real: The beach is 15-20°F cooler than inland areas.
Weather Reality Check
LA has great weather, but it's not always sunny and 75°F. The Valley hits 100°F+ in summer, coastal areas get foggy ("June Gloom"), and winter nights can be cold (40s-50s). Most apartments don't have good heating.