The over 4 million residents of the LA Area love the perfect weather, the glamor of Hollywood, and La La Land’s unique attractions. Orange County is a Southern California treasure with coastal cities, theme parks, beaches, and gorgeous state parks.
You can be California dreaming when you live in the Los Angeles Area. You’ll find a strong economy, beautiful scenery, and thriving communities here. Choose to sail the coast, dine in a multitude of restaurants, golf, rub elbows with celebrities, and shop to your heart’s content.
From the swallows of San Juan Capistrano to the theme parks in Buena Park and Anaheim, LA is a fun place to live! The weather always cooperates for hiking, fishing, boating, camping and surfing.
From upscale dining along California cliffs overlooking the oceans to hole in the wall eateries the varied options won’t leave you wanting for more. Outstanding sunsets, cool coastal breezes and a multitude of entertainment and arts and culture are at your disposal in this metropolis and the many welcoming cities in Orange County.
Los Angeles Area Communities
Downtown LA
From Uptown to the sprawling suburbs, the Los Angeles area is a popular spot as the most populous city in the state. From Hollywood studios shaping the television and film industry to celebrities and great attractions, this city’s urban feel is filled with great opportunities.
Lake Forest
Lake Forest is found in the southern part of the county in Saddleback Valley. This city is a great place to work and play with several master planned communities.
Tustin
Full of charm and located next to Santa Ana, Tusin is a dynamic community is full of amenities and a variety of homes.
Rancho Mission Viejo
Designed with families, retirees and young professionals in mind, everyone has a place in Rancho Mission Viejo. Parks, pools and community farms are part of the lifestyle package.
Newport Beach
Live the luxurious coastal lifestyle in stunning Newport Beach.The bustling harbor is full of recreation and dining. Ocean views, amusement park and upscale shops complete the pretty picture of this charming city.
Irvine
Irvine has great attractions like Orange County Great Park with its antique carousel and anchored helium balloon. This dynamic suburb provides a warmth and variety to the flourishing housing market.
Anaheim
About 20 miles southeast of LA is the fun home of Disneyland Resort, Angels Stadium and the Anaheim Ducks hockey team.
Huntington Beach
Surf City USA located southeast of LA has an amazing pier and some of the best surfing in the world. Beautiful scenery, recreation and easy amenities lure people to this area.
Brea
Found in the northern end of Orange County, this suburb is gorgeous. The eclectic downtown, vibrant neighborhoods and ease to Los Angeles make it an optimal spot to call home.
Top Los Angeles School Districts
Finding the right school district for your children has a major impact on their quality of life and path to success. These are the top rated school districts in the Los Angeles Area; if you want to delve deeper into school records and standards for the State of California, NewHomeSource has a guide to all the resources you need to find the right school for your child.
San Marino USD
Students Served: 3,136
School Breakdown: 2 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 20
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: San Marino
Palos Verdes Peninsula USD
Students Served: 11,428
School Breakdown: 1 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 25
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics
Communities Served: Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Portuguese Bend, Palos Verdes Estates
Arcadia USD
Students Served: 9,523
School Breakdown: 7 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 2 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 26
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Arcadia
La Canada USD
Students Served: 4,093
School Breakdown: 3 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 24
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: La Canada, Flintridge, Cedar Springs, Singing Springs
South Pasadena USD
Students Served: 4,733
School Breakdown: 3 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 24
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: South Pasadena
Laguna Beach USD
Students Served: 3,029
School Breakdown: 3 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 2 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 22
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Laguna Beach
Redondo Beach USD
Students Served: 9,529
School Breakdown: 9 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 4 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 25
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Redondo Beach, El Nido
Irvine USD
Students Served: 32,319
School Breakdown: 30 elementary schools, 13 middle schools, and 9 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 27
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Irvine, Turtle Rock, Laguna Altura, Northwood, part of Lower Peters Canyon
Temple City USD
Students Served: 5,893
School Breakdown: 6 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 4 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 24
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics
Communities Served: Temple City
Walnut Valley USD
Students Served: 14,468
School Breakdown: 10 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 4 high schools
Students Per Teacher: 25
Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics
Communities Served: Part of the town of Walnut
Top Employers in Los Angeles
While many people have dreams of stardom, LA has a bigger economy than the entertainment industry.
Los Angeles has a booming economy, bolstered by education and healthcare.
LA County
LA County is one of the largest employers in the Los Angeles Area, with a dedicated workforce providing government services to the metropolitan area.
LA School District
Proving its dedication to providing children with a quality education, the LA School District employs almost 60,000 people, dedicating to helping kids reach their full potential.
UCLA
UCLA’s thriving campus supports over 42,000 jobs in the higher education sector, and is not only one of the largest employers in LA, but one of the largest in the state of California.
City of Los Angeles
In addition to providing a lot of government jobs in LA County, the City of Los Angeles also employs about 35,000 people.
Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente is a major healthcare network in the Los Angeles Area, providing top quality care to millions of people in Southern California.
Los Angeles Area Museums
See some fantastic art at the Getty Center
The California Science Center
Home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the California Science Center is a free museum filled with engineering marvels, life sciences and innovation. You’ll want to spend hours looking at all the family-friendly exhibits.
Pretend City Children’s Museum
The Pretend City Children’s Museum serves as inspiration to little minds as they navigate construction, art, government and finance. Hands-on activities allow kids to explore diverse careers in a world built to their size.
Getty Center
Now called the Getty Villa, this is a vast art collection in the former home of J. Paul Getty. Beautiful pavilions filled with ornate furniture and transitioning exhibitions come at no cost to the visitor. A bonus is found in the panoramic views from the ocean to downtown Los Angeles.
Discovery Cube Orange County, LA and Ocean Quest
These interactive museums have plenty of exhibits sure to spark wonder Feel what it’s like to experience an earthquake in the Shake Shack. Bringing learning about through doing is what Discovery Cube does best!
Bowers Museum
The mission of the Bowers Museum is to promote understanding of world cultures through the arts. Grand exhibitions and local pieces from founding families in Orange County are the mainstay of this amazing museum.
Japanese American National Museum
Take a serious look at the history of this nation as it tells the story of Japanese immigration to the U.S. See powerful exhibits of internment camps from World War II as well as art exhibits and artifacts. Changing exhibitions cover everything from the Japanese art of tattooing to Hello Kitty.
Griffith Observatory
This iconic landmark gives visitors the opportunity to gaze through a 12-inch refracting telescope. See an array of exhibits and a planetarium show.
Great Parks in the Los Angeles Area
Reconnect with nature in LA’s fantastic parks.
Griffith Park
Peaceful picnics, a zoo, an observatory and an antique carousel are some of the perks in this park combined with priceless views. Take some time to recharge in this gorgeous spot.
Topanga State Park
Want miles and miles of accessible trails in the Santa Monica Mountains? This California treasure offers that and more!
Huntington State Beach
Nothing says California more than a beach. Fish from the pier, rent bikes, bask in the sun or stroll the boardwalk. This is a perfect spot for surfing whether you partake or just watch the waves break.
Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park
This gem found in Laguna Niguel is a serene setting. Stroll along Aliso Creek or hike and bike through the California natural beauty.
Crystal Cove State Park
Newport Beach has an amazing asset with this park. Enjoy oceanfront action along more than 3 miles of Pacific coastline. Play in the waves, build a sand castle or search for shells and sea glass.
Pavion Park
Designed for all children, Pavion Park Playground is equipped with play areas accessible to all with a treehouse, accessible ramps, rocking boat for a wheelchair, and supported swings. Soft material, vibrant colors and great play equipment make it a favorite for all ages and abilities in Mission Viejo.
Los Angeles Sports Teams
You Can Root On (Or Pretend You Don’t Care About)
Whether you love the Lakers or the Dodgers, you can always catch a game in LA.
There’s no place more exciting for sports fans than the Los Angeles area Baseball fans spend hours watching the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim or the Dodgers at Dodger Stadium.
Anaheim is also the place to catch hockey with the Anaheim Ducks scoring on the ice or if you are a Kings fan, they play hockey at STAPLES Center.
Not one but two NBA teams call LA home. The Clippers and the Lakers are nothing but net for basketball fans. The ladies get in on the action with the LA Sparks playing for the WNBA.
With eleven major league pro teams, the Los Angeles area has two football teams, the Chargers and the Rams. Soccer is popular as well with the LA Galaxy and the Los Angeles FC.
Living in this region of California means access to green spaces for jogging and biking. Surfing, golfing, hiking and tennis are some great ways to enjoy the weather in your free time.
Living in Los Angeles
Live a life you love in Los Angeles!
There’s no getting around the fact that it is more expensive to live in southern California. Living in a major metropolitan region with outstanding amenities and fabulous weather still comes in at a lower cost than living in New York City, though.
The strong economy, promising job market, thriving housing market bring in those looking for their piece of the California dream. Housing, and groceries are higher but the healthcare system is world class.
Los Angeles Housing Trends
Orange County median home prices have fallen a few percentage points recently, but sales are up significantly meaning it’s a buyers’ market in these great suburbs. Los Angeles home values have gone up slightly and continue to rise so buying here is a good investment.
Median Home Price: $723,000
With so many great suburbs vying for your new home locale, you get to make the call as to the area and price point that works for you. With so many attractions in this part of the nation, your home locale will offer you great recreation and entertainment.
Growing Communities in North Los Angeles
If you want to invest in a new construction home in the Los Angeles Area, but don’t want to blow out your budget, Lancaster is a wonderful place to put down roots. This North Los Angeles commuter city has affordable houses in communities like Serenade and Providence Ranch, so you can invest in your future.
Growing Communities in Santa Clarita
Santa Clarita is a charming area in the LA Area, close to the beautiful Hidden Springs Park. This North Los Angeles satellite city is closer to LA than Lancaster, making it a great city for people looking for a more suburban environment, without having to sacrifice easy access to the city.
Santa Clarita communities like Aliento and West Creek let you live a comfortable life in a wonderful LA neighborhood.
Growing Communities in North Central LA
Are you dreaming of an exciting life in one of the most exciting Californian cities? Glendale and Burbank are two amazing towns in North Central LA that let you invest in a beautiful new construction home in the heart of Los Angeles.
Coolidge Place and Sagecrest new home communities in North Central Los Angles can deliver your Cali dream home, so start living a life you love.
Growing Communities in Long Beach
Living in South Los Angeles means enjoying beautiful views of California’s iconic beaches every single day. Long Beach new communities include Ocean Place and Long Beach Garden Home, providing wonderful environments for people who want to take advantage of everything LA has to offer, while still providing a comfortable place to call home.
Amazing Los Angeles Restaurants
Los Angeles/Orange County has a wide variety of cuisine, sure to please any hungry diner. Check out a few or discover other great spots to add to the list.
Fly N Fish Oyster Bar and Grill
For that special occasion this is a beautiful restaurant with amazing views of the California sunset while dining on macadamia encrusted halibut. Pair your dinner with an excellent glass of wine or cocktail for the perfect experience in Newport Beach.
Coltivare Pizza & Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen
Downtown Disney is always a good time. Stop at this restaurant for great service and large portions. The chicken fried chicken and chicken Caesar salad are a must. The jazz music is a fantastic addition to your meal.
Sugar Shack Cafe
Since 1967, this small surfing decorated eatery has been serving hearty breakfasts including eggs benedict and pancakes in Huntington Beach.
Wi Jammin Caribbean Restaurant
This cash only LA hole in the wall is a fabulous surprise! This colorful eatery is full of authentic Jamaican items including jerk chicken, oxtail and red beans and rice.
The Lobos Truck
Finding a fabulous LA food truck might mean you have to follow it around. Cross cut potato waffle fries with all the delicious nacho toppings will draw you in. The spicy mac n cheese is the perfect comfort food. Makes you want to find that truck right now!
85 Degrees Bakery Cafe
When you’re looking for a quick bite, this café should make the list. The light pastries and breads can be savory or sweet.
Hotville Chicken
Hot chicken is a thing in LA! Choose your level of spice on wings, white meat quarters and leg quarters. Keeping it spicy, try the corn on the cob and crunchy kaleslaw.
Vegan Nirvana
California has its share of healthy eating. This colorful and fun restaurant offers vegan sandwiches and healthy juices.
Hatchet Hall
Wood-fired inspired dishes made from fresh ingredients make this a favorite in Culver City. Yeast rolls, mushroom-crusted pork chops and an Old Fashioned make this a complete dining experience.
Soprano
Decadent Italian fare is what’s found at Soprano. From celebrity named pizzas like the John Candy or Tina Turner to homemade pastas you will love the flavors at this popular restaurant.
Bao Dim Sum House
This downtown LA Asian restaurant is full of flavorful dishes like fried shrimp and crab balls, scallion pancake and spare ribs. Have some sake or cocktails.
The Donuttery
From the classic glazed donuts to apple fritters and more exotic flavors like salted caramel and crème brulee the donuts and pastries in Huntington Beach are always fresh and served with a smile.
Nightshade
Founded by Top Chef Winner, Mei Lin, this creative chef is turning out some progressive dishes like Mapo Tofu lasagna in the LA Arts District.
Smoqued California BBQ
Find some mouthwatering barbecue at this spot. From dry rubbed pork to avocado fries, bring an appetite!
Electric Owl
This train station-themed restaurant serves up one of the best burgers in Los Angeles. People flock here for happy hour on the patio. The horseradish-mustard aioli and white cheddar cheese topped burger comes on a parmesan bun.
Birdie G’s
Santa Monica has a winner in Birdie G’s. Family classic dishes and blue plate specials will have the entire family wanting to come here weekly.
Nozawa Bar
Two amazing LA chefs host 10 diners per evening at a hefty cost of $175 per meal. This relaxed, upscale fish experience lasts for two hours and focuses on nigari, hand rolls and sashimi.
Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens
Farm-to-fork in a gorgeous setting is what’s on the menu at this restaurant. Found in the middle of a nursery complete with heaters and blankets on the chairs, you will love the fresh food and great atmosphere in Corona del Mar.
Great Attractions for Los Angeles Stay-cations
You have to go star spotting at least once in LA!
Disneyland & California Adventure
These two theme parks are truly some of the happiest places on earth. Enjoy thrill rides, favorite character experiences, food, and entertainment in these parks.
Whale Watching
Head to the ocean and be in awe of the beautiful whales and dolphins. Newport Bay is one of the largest marine protected areas in southern California.
Indulge in a Sunset Cruise
Be pampered with a wide selection of wines, cheeses, fruits and nuts or dinner as you cruise on a luxury catamaran out of Dana Point Harbor. This is a great activity to relax and spend some quality time with friends enjoying the coastal breezes.
Huntington Beach Pier
This popular pier opened in 1904. Utilized for war efforts in WWI, this pier now serves as a popular spot for volleyball, surfing, food and air shows.
Richard Nixon Presidential Library
His former vice presidency and presidency are documented with a multitude of exhibits, films, photographs and artifacts. President and First Lady Nixon are buried near the restored birthplace behind the museum.
Balboa Island Ferry
This short ferry ride takes you to Balboa Island. This tourist area is charming with its souvenir shops in the historic district. Grab a chocolate covered banana and enjoy the spectacular views.
Heisler Park
This Laguna park overlooks the ocean and coves with absolutely stunning scenery. The clifftop views, benches and public art make this a divine place to escape for a break from the hustle and bustle.
Be a Tourist for a Day
From the Hollywood sign to the walk of fame there is plenty of sightseeing in Los Angeles. Rodeo Drive, Venice Beach, the Sunset Strip and the TCL Chinese Theater are all some of the best touristy spots to see what life is like for celebrities.
Knott’s Berry Farm
Enjoy the 57 acres of themed amusements at Knott’s Berry Farm. From its early start as an actual farm to its charming western theme, there’s everything from roller coasters to funnel cakes. Be sure to grab a few jars of their delicious boysenberry preserves.
Shopping
Shop until you drop in some of LA’s fancy boutiques!
This premier shopping destination is filled with great designer finds, outstanding art and over 1,000 retailers. Los Angeles and the OC are one of the world’s greatest shopping destinations, hands down. From street vendors selling celebrity maps to original farmers markets there is some form of retail therapy for everyone.
SOCO and The OC Mix
This Costa Mesa area has over 300,000 square feet at your disposal. Restaurants, showrooms, boutiques and the largest farmers market in Orange County are just some of the great options to explore.
You can make your own experience with design lectures, cooking demonstrations and classes. Get your inspiration for home décor or clothing at many great fashionista boutiques and specialty shops.
Fashion Island
Fall in love with this Newport Beach open-air shopping complex. Stroll through the various shops along the coast for specialty boutiques, department stores and a variety of delicious restaurants.
Enjoy a great meal after finding superior buys from shops like Tommy Bahama Home Store, Bloomingdale’s and Anthropologie.
Irvine Spectrum Center
This popular lifestyle destination has everything from shopping to dining to entertainment. With over 18 million people annually, Irvine Spectrum Center is doing something right! Over 175 retailers are at your disposal in one convenient location.
Not in the mood to shop? Head to the Improve Comedy Club or the IMAX. Great dining awaits you with options including Bakery Habana, Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse, Cheesecake Factory and Kabuki Japanese Restaurant.
Los Rios Historic District
This designated landmark is known as the “oldest neighborhood in California. Close to Mission San Juan Capistrano, find eclectic boutiques and eateries filled with charm, great finds and hospitality.
This walkable area near downtown is also close to the gorgeous Dana Port beaches. Many of the shops are located in adobe and historic buildings selling artisan wares, clothing, art and more.
Places of Worship
Find the right place of worship for you and your family in Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles Area is one of the most diverse cities in the United States, and has numerous places of worship that represent a wide range of faiths and religions.
New City Church of Los Angeles
The New City Church of Los Angeles is an inclusive, multi-ethnic, multi-generational church in Downtown LA that fosters an environment of love and mercy.
The Islamic Center of Southern California
The Islamic Center of Southern California gives American Muslims a warm and welcoming environment that remains committed to diversity, open mindedness, civic engagement, and community building.
Wilshire Boulevard Temple
The Wilshire Boulevard Temple is a historic Jewish community that has served the Los Angeles Area since its founding in 1862.
West Los Angeles Buddhist Temple
The West Los Angeles Buddhist Temple is a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist temple that has served West LA since the 1960s.
Malibu Hindu Temple
The Malibu Hindu Temple serves the God Venkateswara and Shiva as presiding deities, in addition to shrines for other deities.
Sinai Temple
The Sinai Temple is a Conservative synagogue, dedicated to providing a welcoming and caring community for people devoted to Jewish learning.
King Fahad Mosque
The King Fahad Mosque is a beautiful mosque in Culver City. This stunning mosque offers a number of educational opportunities for Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
Valley Hindu Temple
The Valley Hindu Temple is a beautiful Hindu temple that fosters a true sence of commuity with services for children, youths, and senior citizens.
Wat Khmer Temple
The Wat Khmer Temple is a traditional Cambodian temple that provides a peaceful environment to all who seek peace and harmony in life.
Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church
Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church is a welcoming Catholic church in LA that has a number of community outreach programs to the needy.
Other California Resources
- The Top 10 Most Affordable Cities in California
- The 10 Best Places to Retire in California in 2021
- Your Guide to 2021 Closing Costs in California
- Top Master Planned Communities near Sacramento
- Top Master Planned Communities near Riverside, California
- Best Master Planned Communities in Los Angeles
- 2021 Best Suburbs Surrounding Oakland, California
- 2021 Best Suburbs of Orange County, California
- First-Time Homebuyer Programs in California
- The Best Suburbs Surrounding Los Angeles
- Top 10 Safest Large Cities in California
- Moving To Los Angeles? Our Relocation Guide Will Help
- Moving To San Diego? Our Relocation Guide Will Help
- California Sunshine Harnessed for Solar Power
- California Mandates Installation of Solar Panels on All New Homes Starting 2020
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.
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