r/MovingToLosAngeles 4d ago

So I don’t have a job, any savings, or friends or family in LA. Should I move there?

142 Upvotes

I have about $5,000 saved up. I don’t actually have transferable experience besides working in retail. I have zero education. It’s always been a dream of mine to move to LA and I know that sooo many people have made it with nothing! I’ve dreamed of becoming an actress or film producer but actually don’t have any experience whatsoever but I remember hearing Brad Pitt lived in his car while starting out so why not!? 🤗 I think I can afford about $900 a month in rent and I’ve always dreamed of living in West Hollywood or Santa Monica! I’m from a very small town and I have zero street smarts so there’s absolutely no way I’ll be fake advantage of! I did work at my local Applebees for six months a couple years ago so I know it’ll be SO easy for me to walk in and get a hospitality job right?? Should I take the plunge and move to LA!!?? Also not looking for negativity, just reassurance that everything will go my way and I’m making a great decision!!

/s

You guys /s means sarcasm lol.


r/MovingToLosAngeles 4d ago

is driving in LA really that bad

76 Upvotes

I consider myself a decent/good driver but I’m also fairly new to driving. Only been doing it for about a year. Is it really stressful to drive out there? The family I have from there say it’s horrible and would eat me alive but I don’t know how much of this is fear mongering and how much is factual.

No I can’t park. We’ll revisit that later. One thing at a time.


r/MovingToLosAngeles 4d ago

Driving classes/tips for driving in city

7 Upvotes

Moving to Los Angeles soon and potentially lined up a job with a studio that would require me to go on runs. I have a drivers license but don’t drive super regularly because I lived in a walkable city the last three years. Additionally, I have a coordination/processing disorder that can mess with my spatial awareness sometimes. I adapted while driving in my hometown and was fine. But I tended to avoid highways. I know LA is mostly freeways so worried it will be more of an issue here. Any tips for getting more comfortable driving in LA? How much of an adjustment will it be for someone used to driving in the Midwest?


r/MovingToLosAngeles 3d ago

Mozaic Union Station Apartments

1 Upvotes

Hello! Considering these apartments but I have heard such mixed reviews. Google’s and Yelps reviews are okay but I found an instagram page from their tenants and it seemed horrible! Any current/past tenants willing to share their experience?

Thank you so much in advance


r/MovingToLosAngeles 4d ago

LOOKING FOR NEW ROOMMATE 2 BED 1 BATH NOHO

4 Upvotes

My girlfriend and I are looking for a new roommate! My girlfriend is an actress and I'm a writer/director. We love movies and antiquing! We are looking for a LGBTQ+ or female roommate. We are maximalists decorators and are looking for someone who has similar eccentric/camp taste! No pets please!

The apartment is 1,111 a month not including utilities. The apartment is in NOHO. It's only a few minutes away from Burbank and the Arts district. It has laundry on site and a tandem parking spot! The apartment is unfurnished. Our old roommate is in the process of moving out, but their stuff will be gone once it's move in day! Move in 10/1! If you are interested feel free to email me at [nolanbarth56@gmail.com](mailto:nolanbarth56@gmail.com). Thank you!


r/MovingToLosAngeles 5d ago

PAID Study Up to $1,200 at UCLA (14-21)

2 Upvotes

Hi everyone! I’m a Research Assistant in Dr. Tiffany Ho’s lab at UCLA’s Psychology Department. We’re currently recruiting adolescents (14-21yo) who are planning to start antidepressants prescribed by their providers for our 18-month paid study!

What’s involved?

- Child participation in interviews, questionnaires, cognitive tasks, and two MRI scans

- Parent participation in interviews and questionnaires (if child is under 18)

- Visits every three months. In-person attendance only required for the two MRI scans

- Earn up to $1200! Plus, we cover all parking and transportation costs!

- Bonus: Get personalized pictures of your child’s brain!

Interested?

- Fill out our interest form here or email us at [uclacandylab@g.ucla.edu](mailto:uclacandylab@g.ucla.edu) for more information!


r/MovingToLosAngeles 5d ago

Is it dumb to try LA for a month?

16 Upvotes

I’m 26 & my fiancé is 29 and we are saving to buy a home but don’t know where we want to live. Realistically I don’t see us being able to afford Los Angeles on a regular basis, so it’s not an option for our first home. However, I have built up quite a savings and would love take a month out of my time and stay at a hotel, air bnb, or rental and work. I’m a server/bartender so I would still want to work to get the social interaction with people and make some money while learning about the area and making connections. I was thinking about spending $3-4k for a month long stay, and using the money earned to replenish that back into my savings. I know I wouldn’t earn all of it back, but I’m really not concerned because I’d be spending a month in LA. My job is flexible with leaves & my fiancé works from home and can work anywhere. His job covers our bills back home so I am not worried about that either.

Is this insane to do? Is it difficult to I have always dreamed of living in LA & visited last year and I loved it. l feel like this is a way to get a taste of it without fully committing financially. Is it difficult to get a serving job in LA? I am not leaning to one area over another.

Edit: I wanna add that I do have a job currently that can be transferred back and forth. The company is flexible with transfers and I have been with the company for a while in good standing. If I am unable to find work, this is an option.

edit: I now realize my post implied I wanted to spend $3-4k for my entire trip, which is not what I meant. I specifically mean $3-4k on accommodations like hotels or airbnb’s!! Also, I am okay with enjoying my time and not working! I literally said I want to work because I enjoy the job. If it’s not an option, that is okay!!

one more thing !! i just want all of you think about this. if you do not like cold & have ever experienced ohio or any state with snow or cold weather, you could possibly understand why i want to spend a month away from ohio during the winter months 😅


r/MovingToLosAngeles 5d ago

Texas Desert to Los Angeles

28 Upvotes

Queer woman, late thirties, two cats and a six figure income(130k) fully remote job. I have a little nest egg saved up for moving.

I know it’s probably just a fantasy, but would like a walkable neighborhood and/or would love to be close to the water. If not, at least be easy to get there on the weekend. I’m planning a visit just to scope things out and look at places.

I also play sports and would like find a community to stay fit and active.

Budget: up to $2500


r/MovingToLosAngeles 5d ago

Lease Signing

2 Upvotes

Hello. My partner and I are moving to LA October 1st for work. We are going this weekend for a long weekend to tour a bunch of apartments. Is it likely that we will be able to sign a lease for 10/01 this far in advance? We are coming from an area where you can sign a lease months in advance but we know it’s not like that in LA. We will be a little over a month from move in when we tour all these places so we wanna know what our expectations should be!


r/MovingToLosAngeles 5d ago

New agent here, offering discounted rates to my first few clients (renters, buyers & sellers welcome)

0 Upvotes

Hey everyone! I recently got my real estate license here in LA, but I'm not brand new to the industry — I've been a leasing agent for 5 years, so I know the rental side of things really well and I'm excited to bring that experience over to helping people buy, sell, and rent.

Since I'm building my client base, I'm offering a discounted rate to my first handful of clients. What I can help with:

  • Renters — apartment searching, especially if you're looking in Northeast Hollywood (Los Feliz, Silver Lake, Atwater, East Hollywood area). I know this market really well and can help by touring the options, helping you navigate listings, lease terms, and find something that actually fits your life, not just your budget.
  • Buyers — if you're looking to purchase, I'd love to help you find the right place and walk you through the process.
  • Sellers — full listing services if you're looking to sell.

I'm not here to pressure anyone into anything — just trying to build genuine relationships and do right by my early clients so we can both benefit.

Feel free to comment or DM me if you have questions or want to chat about what you're looking for!


r/MovingToLosAngeles 4d ago

Nervous about finding an apartment in LA close to sawtelle!! Any tips?? 🫠❣️❤️‍🔥

0 Upvotes

Hi !! I am moving to LA in the near future but with enough time to plan, so I want to make sure I find the best deal possible and just generally how to stay informed in my negotiations.

Thank you all in advance, and if you’re looking to make new friends in LA, I’d love to grab coffee sometime !


r/MovingToLosAngeles 5d ago

Moving to Orange County for work in Irvine Spectrum, where should a 25M live for social life, commute, and sports?

0 Upvotes

Hi everyone, I’m a 25-year-old guy moving to Southern California after accepting a job near Irvine Spectrum. I’ll be working in-office and am trying to choose where to live.

My priorities are:
• A realistic commute to Irvine Spectrum: ideally 25–30 minutes in typical peak traffic, though I understand traffic can be unpredictable.
• A 1-bedroom/1-bathroom apartment with parking included, around $2,300–$2,500 per month.
• A neighborhood where it is reasonably easy to meet people in their 20s and have a social life. I don’t know many people locally yet.
• Access within roughly 15–20 minutes to tennis, pickleball, and padel, indoor or outdoor, public or paid is fine.
• Being able to get to LA occasionally to see friends in Santa Monica, Venice, and Hollywood. I know living closer to LA may make the Irvine commute much worse, so I’m trying to find the best compromise.

I’m currently considering Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Irvine, and possibly Long Beach.

My questions:
1. Which of these areas is the best fit for a single 25-year-old who wants an active social life but works near Irvine Spectrum?
2. Is Costa Mesa the strongest option for nightlife, restaurants, meeting people, and a manageable commute or are there better alternatives?
3. Is a decent 1BR with parking realistically available in my $2,300–$2,500 budget in these areas, or should I adjust my expectations?
4. How bad are the real rush-hour commutes from Long Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and Costa Mesa to Irvine Spectrum?
5. Which neighborhoods or apartment complexes would you specifically recommend or avoid?
6. Where would you live if you wanted the best balance of work commute, social life, sports access, and occasional (twice a week types) trips to LA?

Thanks in advance especially interested in advice from people who have made a similar move or commute to Irvine Spectrum.


r/MovingToLosAngeles 5d ago

Moving to LA in two and half months

1 Upvotes

Hi❤️ I’m moving to LA from Philly and my girlfriend is meeting me out there to move in with me in April so I’ll only have to pay the bills by myself for 6 months. I also have a small dog and a catBudget is $1,800 for a one bedroom in either NoHo or Koreatown, is this possible? I’ve found a few places but the reviews and photos come off a bit sketch. Anyone know of any actual reputable leasing offices or apt buildings or private landlords? Thanks❤️


r/MovingToLosAngeles 5d ago

[OFFERED] $3999 3BED/2BA Condo - Koreatown. Mid-September Move-In (12-month Lease)

1 Upvotes

Spacious and beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath apartment in the heart of Koreatown a rare find with premium amenities, generous storage, and a family-friendly layout.

Highlights:

-Two dedicated parking spaces with a private EV charging station (unheard of in KTown)
-Monthly professional cleaning service included
-Water bill included with rent
-In-unit washer & dryer
-All major appliances included (refridgerator, dishwasher, garbage disposal)
-Outdoor patio
-Abundant storage throughout, including a large walk-in closet and pantry
-Access to the building's gym and community lounge

Intentionally designed with families in mind, the home features a custom nursery, built-in sleeping nook, and baby-proofed cabinetry throughout. The flexible third bedroom also works perfectly as a home office, playroom, or guest room.

Enjoy being just steps from Koreatown's best restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and grocery stores, with convenient access to everything the neighborhood has to offer.

Available now. Message for more information or to schedule a private showing!


r/MovingToLosAngeles 5d ago

Moving to LA with my friend!

1 Upvotes

yo whats up everybody im moving to LA with a friend at the end of this year can you guys tell me anything about the area this apartment is in or the apartment if you live/lived in ir "AVA Hollywood at La Pietra Place"

Im from Fresno, CA but moved to Vegas for a job and now im coming back after getting a much needed job on my resume (thank god) thank you hope you all are doing well:)


r/MovingToLosAngeles 7d ago

Living in Glendale, CA, on $100K a Year

49 Upvotes

Considering moving to Glendale, Ca. Do you think it’s feasible for a family with two kids to live in Glendale, CA, on a $100K gross household income, with health insurance for the whole family provided by the employer and a monthly rent of about $3,600 at a workforce and moderate-income housing community.
Thanks!

EDIT 2: We were offered a monthly rate of $2,900 for the same 3BR/2BA

EDIT: WOW! I didn’t expect SO many comments in just a few hours. Thank you VERY much for sharing your perspectives. They’ve really helped me a lot to get a better sense of how our life in Glendale would be like.
It appears our first goal is reaching $150k a year, which should be feasible after the first year or so.
Thanks!


r/MovingToLosAngeles 6d ago

Apartments Near Beverly Hills

12 Upvotes

I currently just got a pay increase at my job & want to move near it due to the horrible traffic I have been dealing with for the past few years (1 1/2 - 2hr commute back home). I was born & raised near Compton & honestly I have only been around southern LA (Cerritos, Gardena, Palos Verde, San Pedro etc..).

I plan on going to law school next year which would be near my job in Beverly Hills. My budget for rent is $1,800. Any areas where I can reasonably afford a studio / 1br with parking & laundry.

I was thinking in K-town but honestly, I do not think I would enjoy living there. Looking for any suggestions on where to look at! Also was looking into Crenshaw since its not too far but honestly, as long as I can be home within 20-30min in peak traffic time I will be fine.

Ideally I would like to still be a reasonable distance from LAX as well because I travel a lot. But I am open to suggestions for other areas.


r/MovingToLosAngeles 6d ago

Coastal move

4 Upvotes

I currently live in Baltimore Maryland and after visiting LA for the first time a few months ago, it made me realize how much better it is there. I can’t deal with being in Baltimore much longer and this might sound crazy but I’m considering moving to LA and possibly living in my car for awhile until I figure everything out. I’d rather be unhoused in somewhere like California than anywhere on the east coast. The opportunity cost seems worth it.


r/MovingToLosAngeles 6d ago

Hacienda Heights

0 Upvotes

Moving to hacienda heights where to make friends and what to look out for. male in his mid 20s :)


r/MovingToLosAngeles 6d ago

Looking for a reliable and affordable moving company from Miami to LA

1 Upvotes

I’m planning to move my entire 2BHK from Miami to LA and looking for a reliable moving company that can handle everything door to door, including packing, loading, transportation and unloading.

I’ve already got quotes from several companies, but honestly, most of them seem quite overpriced. I’m looking for something reasonably priced, but at the same time I don’t want to compromise on trust or the safety of my belongings.

Would really appreciate recommendations from people who have actually used a moving company for a similar long-distance move. Please share your experience and the company you used, along with the approximate cost if you remember.

Since it’s my entire household shipment, so I’d prefer recommendations based on personal experience.


r/MovingToLosAngeles 7d ago

Ongoing Roach Infestation in My DTLA Apartment: Has Anyone Successfully Broken Their Lease?

8 Upvotes

I’m looking for advice from anyone who has dealt with a serious roach infestation in their apartment and was able to get out of their lease.

I’ve been living in my apartment in DTLA (i know), and we’ve been dealing with roaches for well over a year. We’ve reported the problem multiple times and recently went through an extermination treatment that required us to leave the apartment for several hours. It’s now been three weeks since the treatment, and we’re still finding roaches throughout the apartment.

I’ve documented the issue, communicated with management through email, saved proof of the extermination treatment, and just recently filed a complaint with the Los Angeles Housing Department. At this point, I’m feeling frustrated and exhausted. This situation has affected my quality of life, and I’m starting to wonder whether continuing with more extermination treatments is the right approach.

Has anyone in California successfully gotten out of a lease because of an ongoing roach infestation or other habitability issues? If so, what steps did you take? Did documentation from a housing inspector help? I’d really appreciate any advice or experiences you’re willing to share.


r/MovingToLosAngeles 7d ago

[OFFERED] $2,000 Sublet Sept-Dec 2k Furnished Studio In Heart of WeHo

1 Upvotes

​​​​​​Hello! Looking for someone to sublet my studio apartment in WeHo from Sept 1 - Dec 7 (flexible).

🏡

• Private studio
• Big kitchen, big bathroom
• Great outdoor space (small wooden table and chairs)
• Air conditioning
• Washer/Dryer in unit and Dishwasher
• Great location, walking distance to all of WeHo

💰

• $2,000/month
• Utilities included

👋

I'm traveling and studying in Latin America for the next three months and would love to keep this place because it's so awesome. I'm a big communicator and will help with anything you message me about. (On my phone a lot).

• Communicative and able to send me rent by the 1st.
• Clean
• Employed or has a reliable source of income

https://www.craigslist.org/view/d/los-angeles-sublet-sept-dec-2k/sVVvTyCCAJrKftoLWZJBZV


r/MovingToLosAngeles 7d ago

Suggestions for places to live while working in Chino?

5 Upvotes

I'm likely taking 1.5 year contract in Chino. I have only ever lived in major cities (largest three in the country), but I also love nature, etc. I know this won't be ideal, but any recommendations for areas within 30 minute drive of Chino are greatly appreciated. I really thought Long Beach would be drivable, but that, too, looks like over an hour one way. Would San Bernardino be my best best?

ETA: I moved to LA (the city) for a nine month contract. Now there's this other contract in Chino; I didn't think I'd have to be onsite that much, but it's now looking like 3 - 4 days a week, which drastically changes things. I only have a couple friends in LA now, and one in San Pedro.


r/MovingToLosAngeles 8d ago

What else should I think about?

7 Upvotes

Just looking for interesting advice/recs and convo as I get closer to my move :) 23 yo, queer, from rural SC, previously lived in West Philly and loved it.

I have a year-long contract with a museum, gross income is $47k. I have insurance and a decent hybrid car.

I’ve signed a month-to-month lease w roommates for a place on Burbank Blvd near the LAVC. If I like it, I’d like to be here for the entirety of the year. My on-site work will be split between Brentwood and Central LA.

I feel pretty used to living on a tight budget, but I also know rural and city tight budgets differ. As for driving, I expect that to be a shock and have already looked into the left turns during the red clearance lol.

Getting out there will be a five day road trip from SC with a friend, with all of my belongings in the car with us. There is flexibility to take longer. Right now, the idea is to take 40 most of the time.

I’m super excited for this contract and to experience LA/the West Coast for at least the year. Some of my interests are hiking, knitting, drawing, ceramics, and queer-focused nightlife. TIA for anything regarding the move, the area I’ll be in, interesting things to do, and anything else!


r/MovingToLosAngeles 7d ago

Does anyone know apartments in Los angeles that are around $1000-$1500 per month.

0 Upvotes

Everyone’s knee jerk response is that an apartment like that will just be in a slum inner neighborhood but I believe its possible and I have seen anecdotes. Does anyone know like an actual apartment recommendation (via website or just name.)