29+ Pros and Cons of Living in Los Angeles by a Local
Curious about the pros and cons of living in Los Angeles?
I’m uniquely qualified to answer the question, “What are the pros and cons of living in Los Angeles?” as I’ve lived in Los Angeles for 20-plus years.
I’ve also had the good fortune of living in four other major US cities, Boston, San Francisco, Austin, and Philly (although I only lived in Philly for one summer, so not sure if that counts).
Los Angeles is a melting pot of diverse cultures; this is beautifully reflected in its cuisine and neighborhoods.
There is so much to discover in Los Angeles that I haven’t scratched the surface even after 20 years of living in the City of Angels.
Los Angeles has everything from the country’s most beautiful beaches to some of the best hiking.
However, the beauty of Los Angeles and its near-perfect weather mean 3.4 million people want to live there, which creates some problems.
Let’s dive into the pros and cons of living in Los Angeles from an Angeleno’s perspective.
The Pros and Cons of Living in Los Angeles
1. Pro: The Pleasant Weather
The Southern California weather is perhaps my favorite thing about living in Los Angeles.
When I first moved to LA from San Francisco, I wasn’t used to it. Everything was so bright. I think I may have even complained about it more than a few times!~😎
But then, like most things in life, you get so used to it, and you can’t imagine living anywhere else.
There are about 284 sunny days each year, with only about 36 rainy days.
While LA experiences “June gloom,” when the entire month is overcast, most of the year has an 80-degree average temp with a cool, sweet breeze, especially in the evenings.
2. Con: Poor Air Quality
The air quality in Los Angeles has improved in recent years, but it can still be a concern, especially during the summer.
As a resident, it’s important to be aware of the air quality index (AQI); I have the app on my phone to make informed decisions about outdoor activities.
Smog can affect those with respiratory issues, and monitoring air quality will help you take necessary precautions to protect your health. 😷
When the air is really bad, I head out on a day trip…which leads us to number 3 on this list.
3. Pro: So Many California Day Trips, so Little Time
In every direction from Los Angeles, you have an amazing day trip to explore.
Santa Barbara, Pismo Beach, San Francisco, Bodega Bay, and the purple sand on Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur are all north of Los Angeles.
Ocean Beach, Mission Beach, Disney, San Diego, and Orange County are to the south.
Big Bear, the San Bernardino National Forest, and Palm Springs are east of Los Angeles.
To the west of Los Angeles is the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island.
Besides the great weather, no other city has more surrounding it than Los Angeles. It’s the biggest benefit of living in California.
If you wanted to, you’d never have to leave the state to see something new and interesting.
4. Con: Traffic, Traffic, Traffic
When people think of Los Angeles, one of the first negative aspects that comes to mind is the traffic.
LA holds the 5th position among the worst US cities for driving due to significant traffic congestion, resulting in an estimated annual loss of approximately 95 hours for drivers.
Even with ten lanes across some highways, they can get packed. Drivers are more than a tad aggressive in LA as well.
To alleviate the hassle of fighting Los Angeles traffic, I set up my life so that every place I frequent is within two miles of where I reside. It helps that I work for myself and can work from home.
Even during typical non-rush hour traffic, traffic in Los Angeles could be better.
There are so many neighborhoods in Los Angeles to choose from. It’s best to decide where you will work, eat, exercise, etc., first and then live there!
5. Pro: So Many Diverse Neighborhoods to Choose From
Los Angeles ranks as one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country, even outranking San Francisco.
I’ve lived in WeHo, Atwater Village, and a few other neighborhoods, and they couldn’t be more diverse.
You can live near the beach in Malibu or Santa Monica or in a city-like atmosphere, like Downtown Los Angeles, Glendale, West Hollywood, or Pasadena.
There are several ethnic communities in Los Angeles, such as Chinatown, Filipino town, Little Bangladesh, and Chinatown.
Ethnic diversity in Los Angeles leads to a fusion of culinary traditions, offering a wide array of authentic and diverse cuisines.
6. Pro: The Food Is Amazing Because of the Ethnic Diversity of Los Angeles
One of the incredible aspects of living in Los Angeles is the opportunity to dive into its eclectic food scene.
The city is a mecca for delicious cuisine from around the globe, including tacos, Thai dishes, California cuisine, Chinese and Japanese food, and more.
The food scene in Los Angeles is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, with new restaurants frequently popping up, ensuring you always have new places to try.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to local food trucks, Los Angeles offers the most diversity and quality food.
Not only does Los Angeles have some of the best and most varied Mexican cuisines, but we also have every other cuisine at every price point.
Los Angeles is a melting pot of culinary creativity, where you can find a local food truck run by a five-star chef who fuses Asian with Mexican, and it’s all f*cking excellent.
Los Angeles is one of the best food cities in America.
7. Con: High Cost of Living in Los Angeles
Because of the excellent weather, cultural diversity, and innovation, people want to live in Los Angeles, which makes it really expensive!
According to Salary.com, the cost of living in Los Angeles is 41.1% higher than the national average.
It’s very hard to buy a home in Los Angeles.
Even if you have the salary, the downpayment, and the great credit, a Silicon Valley millionaire will swoop in with all cash, pushing your great offer off the table.
Renting a home in LA costs an average of $2,786 USD, while purchasing a home in the city costs an average of $845,596 USD.
8. Pro: There Are Many Jobs in Los Angeles
Living in Los Angeles offers a variety of job opportunities across numerous industries.
The robust job market in Los Angeles provides a wide range of opportunities, with the tech sector, entertainment industry, and many other fields catering to different skill sets.
Los Angeles’ diverse economy not only offers a wide array of job options but also promises ample opportunities for career growth and job availability.
The city is known for its booming entertainment industry, but technology and fashion also have strong footholds.
However, it’s essential to consider that the job market in Los Angeles can be highly competitive. With so many people vying for limited spots in popular industries, it’s crucial to bring your best game and showcase your unique skills to stand out from the crowd.
9. Con: High Taxes
In California, the state income tax rates range from 1% to 9.3% for most taxpayers.
However, for high-income earners, there’s an additional 1% mental health tax, making the top marginal rate 10.3%.
Keep in mind that these rates are progressive, so as your income increases, so does your tax rate. Los Angeles County also imposes an additional 0.5% sales tax on top of California’s base sales tax of 7.25%.
Property taxes in Los Angeles County can vary, with an average rate of around 1.16% of the property’s assessed value.
Although it’s slightly lower than the national average, property values in the area are typically higher, which might result in a larger tax bill.
Luckily, California has a property tax cap known as Proposition 13, which limits annual increases in property taxes to 2%, providing some level of protection against skyrocketing taxes. 🤓
10: Con: High Crime Rate
Los Angeles has experienced fluctuating crime rates over the years.
While it is difficult to provide an up-to-date comparison with other US cities as crime rates vary annually, historically, Los Angeles has had higher crime rates than other major cities.
However, it is essential to note that crime rates can vary by neighborhood within a city, and overall safety can depend on various factors.
It is advisable to consult recent crime data and consider specific areas within Los Angeles when evaluating safety comparisons with other US cities.
I’ve lived in California my entire adult life and feel very safe. For more on safety in California, read our Is California Safe for Travel Now guide to get more granular on the issue of safety.
11. Pro: Wages in Los Angeles are High
As of this writing, the minimum wage in Los Angeles is generally higher than the national average at $16.04 per hour, while the federal minimum wage in the United States is $7.25 per hour.
Salaries in Los Angeles are generally higher, helping to offset the high cost of living.
12. Con: Homelessness
The issue of homelessness in Los Angeles remains a pressing concern, affecting both the individuals experiencing homelessness and the broader community.
Residents of Los Angeles witness the urgency of addressing homelessness firsthand and understand the need for comprehensive and compassionate solutions.
13. Pro: Los Angeles is Innovative and Attracts Smart People
Los Angeles is actively seeking innovative approaches to address the complex issue of homelessness.
The city has recognized that traditional methods alone are not enough and is committed to finding creative and sustainable solutions.
Initiatives such as the Housing First approach, which prioritizes providing permanent housing as the first step, have gained momentum.
In addition to these measures, Los Angeles is exploring alternative housing options, such as tiny homes and safe parking programs, to provide immediate relief for those without a roof over their heads.
There is a growing recognition that addressing the root causes of homelessness, such as poverty, mental illness, and substance abuse, requires a comprehensive approach that combines housing, healthcare, and social services.
14. Con: Natural Disasters
Los Angeles is susceptible to earthquakes, wildfires, and droughts.
Although, most of these climate disasters are becoming more common worldwide due to climate change.
Southern California and Northern California have earthquakes.
I’ve never felt an earthquake in the 20-plus years I’ve lived in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Statistically, Los Angeles is due for a huge earthquake.
Drought has additional consequences, such as water restrictions for maintaining lawns, and when rainfall returns after a prolonged dry spell, it can lead to mudslides or floods in specific city regions.
15. Pro: Angelenos Get Work-life Balance
Contrary to other major cities like New York City and San Francisco, living in Los Angeles tends to be less stressful, despite the potential for it.
The proximity to the beach serves as a reminder for individuals to prioritize and maintain a reasonable work-life balance.
Unlike cities with a prevalence of formal office jobs, Los Angeles doesn’t see its streets filled with people in formal attire, as many residents pursue alternative career paths.
This healthy work-life balance stands as a significant advantage of living in Los Angeles.
California, as a whole, understands the importance of work-life balance compared to the rest of the country.
16. Con: Lack of Public Transportation
A contributing factor to the high cost of living in Los Angeles can be transportation.
While public transit is available in the form of buses and trains, many residents rely heavily on their cars.
As a result, car ownership, gas, insurance, and parking fees can really impact your budget.
Traffic in Los Angeles is also notorious, and finding easy parking can be a challenge. Therefore, it’s crucial to factor transportation into your financial planning.
17. Pro: Outdoor Living is Appreciated in Los Angeles
Because of the amazing weather, Angelenos like to be outside.
Whether we are having dinner, a drink, hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains, watching a concert, or shopping, it’s usually outside.
Nature has a place in LA’s urban jungle.
Griffith Park, located in Los Angeles, is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offering a vast expanse of natural beauty, hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city skyline.
It’s also home to popular attractions such as the Griffith Observatory and the iconic Hollywood Sign, making it a beloved recreational destination for locals and visitors alike.
18. Con: Los Angeles is Sprawling
This is both a pro and a con.
Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis that covers over 500 square miles, which means it takes forever to go from one point to another; it also means there are endless activities, events, museums, and concerts at our fingertips.
As a result, you can expect to spend considerable time commuting by car while residing in LA.
I saw one of my LA friends more when I lived in Austin, TX, than I do now that we are both in Los Angeles.
19. Pro: The Los Angeles International Airport
For avid travelers like myself, one significant advantage of living in LA is the proximity to the second-largest airport in the US, LAX.
With over 60 airlines and access to more than 140 destinations, you’ll have a wide selection of domestic and international vacation spots at your fingertips, often without needing layovers and tickets at reasonable prices.
20. Con: The Los Angeles International Airport
What the heck is going on at LAX recently? It’s kind of a disaster. There’s been ongoing construction for the past five years.
LAX is the second busiest airport in the country. You’d think they’d get it together and be more like the world-class airport in San Francisco (SFO).
I’m frugal, but lately, I’ve been splurging on private car services just so I don’t have to take a 15-minute bus ride to a large parking lot where I then have to wait for another 30 minutes to get my Lyft, which charges me close to $150 to take me home. 😤
My friends and I even tried an exchange program where we rotate pickups, but that didn’t last very long because it is such a nightmare dealing with LAX.
If someone picks you up from LAX with no conditions, they really love you. And if you really love someone, you won’t ask them to pick you up at LAX.
21. Pro: Culturally Diverse Population
Los Angeles exhibits remarkable racial diversity, with approximately 48% of the population identifying as Hispanic, 29% as White, 12% as Asian, and 8% as Black.
As a “transplant” city, you’ll encounter a significant number of individuals from various locations, similar to yourself, making for a multicultural and cosmopolitan environment.
It’s very exciting living in Los Angeles for these reasons.
22. Con: Only Three Seasons
Most non-LA people think we don’t have seasons here. We do. Leaves turn yellow and orange and fall from the trees (see Exhibit A).
It’s just that fall happens during December and January in LA.
In Los Angeles, fall is characterized by relatively mild and pleasant weather. The temperatures during the fall season typically range from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 18-23 degrees Celsius).
We don’t have winter. Is this really a con?
23. Pro: No Tornadoes, Hurricanes, or Blizzards, Oh My!
Growing up in Northeastern Pennsylvania with an annual The Wizard of Oz screening terrified me of tornadoes.
LA doesn’t have any snow to turn brown, either.
24. Con: Sometimes called “The City of Broken Dreams”
Los Angeles is sometimes referred to as the “City of Broken Dreams” because it’s a city known for its association with the entertainment industry, particularly Hollywood.
Many aspiring actors, musicians, and artists come to Los Angeles with hopes of achieving fame and success and fortune.
The reality is that the industry can be highly competitive and challenging, with only a few individuals achieving the level of success they desire. Many experience disappointment and frustration, leading to the perception of shattered dreams.
This nickname reflects the bittersweet nature of pursuing one’s ambitions in a city that holds immense allure and opportunities but also presents significant obstacles to success.
25. Pro: Access to World-Class Entertainment
Los Angeles offers unparalleled access to world-class entertainment across a variety of domains.
The city is home to renowned museums, including the Getty Center, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), and the Natural History Museum.
There are over 90 museums in Los Angeles.
These institutions showcase a vast array of artistic, cultural, and scientific exhibits, attracting visitors and residents alike.
Los Angeles hosts a myriad of concerts, music festivals, and cultural events throughout the year.
From large-scale music festivals like Coachella and FYF Fest to intimate performances at iconic venues like the Hollywood Bowl, The Greek Theatre, and The Troubadour, there are endless opportunities to witness world-class musical performances across genres.
The Walt Disney Concert Hall is an architectural masterpiece in downtown Los Angeles.
It hosts world-class musical performances by the Los Angeles Philharmonic, one of the most esteemed orchestras in the world.
26. Pro: World-Class Sport Teams
In terms of sports, Los Angeles boasts several professional teams in major leagues such as the NBA (Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers), MLB (Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Angels), NFL (Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers), and NHL (Los Angeles Kings).
Attending games and supporting these teams at Dodger Stadium and Sofi Stadium is an LA experience not to be missed.
27. Pro: Great Educational Opportunities
Los Angeles is home to a multitude of prestigious universities and colleges, offering excellent educational opportunities across various disciplines.
One notable institution in Los Angeles is the University of California, Los Angeles. UCLA stands as a top public research university, renowned for its wide range of academic programs, including arts and sciences, engineering, and medicine.
There are over 70 public libraries around the city, most within walking distance of neighborhoods.
28. Beautiful Beaches
With over 20 beaches, the beach culture in LA is vibrant, with bustling boardwalks, lively beachfront cafes, and a laid-back atmosphere that embodies the quintessential Southern California lifestyle.
The stunning beauty of Los Angeles’ beaches and diverse activities make them a true gem of the city.
29. Pro: Dogs Are Treated Like People in Los Angeles
Los Angeles features a thriving pet-friendly culture, with many restaurants, cafes, and shops that warmly welcome dogs. 🐶
LA is renowned for its dog-friendly atmosphere, offering various amenities and activities that cater to our four-legged friends.
The city provides numerous dog parks and off-leash areas where dogs can freely socialize, exercise, and roam — making it one of the most dog-friendly cities in the US.
Popular dog parks in Los Angeles include Runyon Canyon Park, Griffith Park, and Silver Lake Dog Park, among many others.
From pet-friendly patios and outdoor dining areas to specialized pet boutiques and stores, numerous options exist for including your furry companion in your daily adventures in Los Angeles.
30. Pro: Famous Entertainers and Stars
While it may sound like a cliché, there is some truth to the notion that famous individuals are ubiquitous in Los Angeles.
Spotting celebrities may not be an everyday occurrence, but the longer you reside in LA, the higher the chances of unexpectedly encountering them.
When you least anticipate it, these encounters tend to take place, adding an element of surprise to the experience, like when I heard Suzanne Pleshette’s voice in my local WeHo hardware store asking where the hammers are located.
Or when Tom Cruise talked to my sister on the phone for a full five minutes, I’m still her favorite sister!
31: Pro: LA Has a “Live and Let Live” Vibe
I’ve lived in several big cities, and I don’t know if it’s because we get to wear shorts anytime we want or go to the beach often, but the people in Los Angeles are very laid back, non-judgemental, and chill.
They are the antithesis of many East Coasters, except those who’ve decided to make Los Angeles home.
Los Angeles rubs off on you in a very good way.
Pros and Cons of Living in Los Angeles: FAQs
Is it worth it to live in Los Angeles?
Whether living in Los Angeles is worth it or not depends on individual tastes and desires.
As someone who has lived in LA for 20-plus years, it is. Los Angeles is renowned for its warm and sun-drenched climate. It boasts a diverse job market, a vibrant cultural landscape, stunning beaches, a flourishing culinary scene, and limitless options for shopping and entertainment. Nonetheless, the city grapples with obstacles such as notorious traffic congestion and a steep cost of living.
Is NYC or LA better?
Considering its stable and pleasant climate, cost-effective transportation system, and relatively lower cost of living, Los Angeles offers a more comfortable environment. On the other hand, New York City presents superior job prospects and a higher safety index, despite its higher cost of living. Taking these aspects into account, one can argue that Los Angeles surpasses New York City in certain regards.
What do I need to know before living in LA?
Before making the decision to move to Los Angeles, there are a few key aspects to consider. First, it’s important to be aware of the high cost of living in Los Angeles, including housing expenses and overall affordability.
Additionally, the heavy traffic congestion can significantly impact daily commutes, so planning for transportation and adjusting to potential delays is crucial.
Understanding the diverse neighborhoods and their unique characteristics can help in finding the right fit for your lifestyle and preferences. Lastly, embracing the vibrant and dynamic nature of Los Angeles, along with its cultural diversity, can enrich your experience in the city.
Why do people move to Los Angeles?
Los Angeles attracts individuals from all corners of the globe for various compelling reasons. Some are driven by the pursuit of a dream career in the fields of entertainment or technology, while others seek a fresh start in a new city blessed with a moderate climate.
What salary is needed to live comfortably in Los Angeles?
According to the data, to live comfortably in California cities such as Los Angeles, Berkeley, and San Diego, an individual would need to earn over $76,000 to achieve a comfortable standard of living. This statistic highlights the financial considerations one must take into account when residing in these cities. The mentioned figure reflects the income necessary to meet the region’s cost of living and maintain a desired comfort level.
What salary do you need to survive in Los Angeles?
According to an MIT Living Wage Calculator study, a Los Angeles resident without children would need to make $76,710 after taxes to live comfortably. The study uses the cost of housing, food, transportation, medical care, and more.
Do celebrities prefer NYC or LA?
California presents abundant opportunities for individuals aspiring to lead a glamorous life in industries like music, film, and TV. Among the popular choices, Los Angeles, notably Hollywood, stands as the quintessential city for those involved in the entertainment industry.
Whether your ambitions lie in mainstream avenues or ventures of a more distinctive nature, California’s allure as a destination for pursuing a star-studded lifestyle remains unrivaled.
Is rent higher in La or NYC?
LA offers a lower cost of living compared to NYC, primarily due to significantly cheaper housing prices. On average, housing in LA is 34% more affordable than in New York City.
Los Angeles also boasts lower prices for groceries and dining out compared to NYC. Having said this, the cost of living in Los Angeles is higher than the national average.
Wrap-Up: Pros and Cons of Living in Los Angeles
Living in Los Angeles is worth it! With consistently sunny weather that allows you to enjoy the outdoors, proximity to top destinations, a plethora of delicious food options, and a wide range of activities, there’s no shortage of things to love about LA.
However, it’s essential to consider the challenges as well.
The high cost of living, extensive commuting time due to traffic, and crime rates should be considered when deciding to move.
Despite these drawbacks, when weighing the pros and cons of living in Los Angeles, it becomes evident that the benefits of living in Los Angeles outweigh the challenges.
So, whether you’re seeking a change of pace or the next big adventure, LA is the perfect place to be!
Read More About California
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- Napa Valley in the Fall
- The Catalina Island Ferry: Everything You Need to Know
- Cheapest Way to Get to Catalina Island
- How to Plan a Road Trip in 19 Steps
- Renting a Golf Cart on Catalina Island
California Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for California?
100% YES! – With basic coverage averaging $1.50 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from SafetyWing, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
💦 Can you drink the water in California?
Yes — But I wouldn’t. It doesn’t taste very good and there are contaminants in it. You’ll want to buy a Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters drinking water while on the go (traveling) and helps keep you hydrated.
🚙 Is it safe to rent a car in California?
Yes — Renting a car in California is one of the best ways to explore this vast, awesome state, and kind of a must! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local California companies, so you get the best rates. (read more)
🏨 What’s the best way to book my California accommodations?
For California hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a California Airbnb, don’t forget also to check VRBO, which has better rates than Airbnb.
🧳 What do I pack for California?
Head to the Ultimate California Packing List to get all the information you need about packing for a trip to California.
🛫 What’s the best site to buy airfare to California?
For finding cheap California flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
