The Best LA Neighborhoods for Families in Los Angeles
Los Angeles may be known for its coastal beaches, Hollywood glamour, and entertainment industry, but it’s also an ideal place for families. With its diverse communities, top-rated schools, and endless family-friendly activities and attractions, Los Angeles is a city that offers something for every family. With this information, you’ll be well-equipped to discover the best neighborhoods to live in LA.
Why Los Angeles is a Great Place for Families
Diverse communities and cultures
One of the greatest advantages of living in Los Angeles is its diverse communities and cultures. From Little Tokyo to Little Ethiopia to Koreatown, Los Angeles is a melting pot of different communities and cultures. This means that families have the opportunity to learn and experience different customs and traditions. Once a year, families can join in on different cultural celebrations to better learn about other cultures.
Access to top-rated schools
Quality schools will always be a must-have for families, and Los Angeles does not disappoint. The city is home to some of the top-rated public and private schools in the state.
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is the second-largest school district in the United States and offers various programs to students of all levels, including language immersion programs and magnet schools that focus on specific interests. Private schools like Harvard-Westlake School and Brentwood School offer rigorous academic programs and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Family-friendly activities and attractions
There is never a dull moment in Los Angeles! The city offers endless family-friendly activities and attractions, including Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland, Universal CityWalk, the Griffith Observatory, and the California Science Center, just to name a few. From amusement parks to museums to beaches, there is always something for every family to see and do.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Neighborhood
Safety and crime rates
One of the primary concerns for families when choosing a neighborhood is safety. Research the crime rates of different neighborhoods to avoid any potential danger. The neighborhoods of Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Westwood, Culver City, and Pasadena have lower crime rates when compared to other areas in Los Angeles. They have highly-rated school systems, which further contributes to making these neighborhoods safe for families.
Proximity to schools and parks
An ideal neighborhood for families is one that is convenient to schools and parks. Make sure to choose a neighborhood close to schools that can offer quality education and parks that provide opportunities for family outings. The neighborhoods of Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Westwood, Culver City, and Pasadena provide easy access to top-rated schools and a variety of parks that offer hiking trails, playgrounds, and sporting activities.
Affordability and housing options
Los Angeles can be an expensive city to live in, so it’s essential to consider affordability when choosing a neighborhood. Each of the neighborhoods listed is relatively affordable compared to other areas in Los Angeles. In Sherman Oaks and Culver City, most of the homes are single-family homes, whereas in Studio City, Westwood, and Pasadena, there are more rental options available.
Commute times and public transportation
It’s important to keep in mind the commute times and public transportation options when choosing a neighborhood. Traffic can be heavy in Los Angeles, and choosing a neighborhood close to work can make a significant difference in daily life. The neighborhoods of Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Westwood, and Pasadena have convenient public transportation options, including buses and Metro Rail stations that make commuting much easier and eco-friendly.
Top Neighborhoods for Families in Los Angeles
Sherman Oaks
Sherman Oaks is a family-friendly neighborhood that offers a suburban feel in the city of Los Angeles. With its highly-rated schools and safe streets, this neighborhood is a top pick for families, being also one of the best neighborhoods in Lafayette LA.
The Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Park offers a wide range of activities for families, including a playground, swimming pool, and basketball and tennis courts. Mulholland Drive and the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area surround the neighborhood, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Schools and education
Sherman Oaks is home to some of the top-rated public schools in Los Angeles, including the highly-coveted Dixie Canyon Avenue Elementary School and the Millikan Middle School. Families also have the option of private schools such as the Village School and Notre Dame High School.
Parks and recreation
Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Park offers an array of activities for families. They have multi-purpose sports fields, a swimming pool, and lighted tennis courts.
Community events and activities
Sherman Oaks also offers a Farmers’ Market every Tuesday, giving families the opportunity to try locally grown produce and homemade snacks.
Studio City
Another family-friendly neighborhood in Los Angeles is Studio City. It offers a suburban feel with easy access to city life. Families can enjoy sushi joints, shopping malls like Westfield Fashion Square, and outdoor activities such as hiking trails.
Schools and education
Studio City’s Carpenter Community Charter School and Walter Reed Middle School are top-rated public schools. Children can also attend the private Campbell Hall School known for rigorous academic programs and their wide range of extracurricular activities.
Parks and recreation
Families in Studio City can enjoy visiting the Fryman Canyon Park with its hiking trails and scenic views. The Beeman Park also offers an array of activities like basketball and baseball games.
Community events and activities
Studio City holds an annual Farmer’s Market on Sundays, filled with live entertainment and organic produce.
Westwood
Westwood has a reputation for being home to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), but it is also a great neighborhood for families. Westwood provides easy access to some of Los Angeles’ top-rated public and private schools such as the Fairburn Elementary School and the Warner Avenue Elementary School.
Schools and education
The city offers top-rated public schools such as the Fairburn Avenue Elementary School and the Warner Avenue Elementary School. Families can also opt for private schools like The Archer School for Girls and the Sinai Akiba Academy, known for their strong academic programs.
Parks and recreation
Westwood is located near the popular park, Westwood Recreation Center, which offers a wide range of activities like athletic fields, an outdoor pool, and a gymnasium.
Community events and activities
An event that can be enjoyed by families is the animated light show in the historic Geffen Playhouse during the holidays.
Culver City
Culver City is a family-friendly neighborhood that is centrally located to downtown Los Angeles and the beaches. This neighborhood is perfect for those looking for affordable housing options and the convenience of central access to all parts of the city.
Schools and education
Culver City has a reputation for providing top-quality schools like the Linwood E. Howe Elementary School and the Culver City Middle School and High School. Families can also opt for private schools, including the Star Prep Academy and the Turning Point School, both of which offer excellent academic opportunities.
Parks and recreation
Culver City offers numerous parks that provide various amenities such as tennis courts, sport fields, and stunning gardens. The Veterans Memorial Park is a great location for family picnics and reunions.
Community events and activities
Culver City’s vibrant art scene is celebrated every year with the outdoor art festival, the Fiesta La Ballona.
Pasadena
Pasadena is a city located north of Los Angeles that offers a family-friendly suburban feel. Pasadena has beautiful parks like the Eaton Canyon Park and quality schools like the Don Benito Fundamental School.
Schools and education
Pasadena has top-rated public schools such as the Don Benito Fundamental School and the Eliot Middle School. Private schools, such as the Polytechnic School and Mayfield Junior School, also provide quality education.
Parks and recreation
One of Pasadena’s most beautiful parks is the Eaton Canyon Park, with hiking trails and a helping them acquire a love for the great outdoors.
Community events and activities
Every September, the city hosts the Pasadena Greek Fest for families to enjoy Greek culture and food.
In conclusion
Los Angeles provides an array of options for families, including top-rated schools, endless entertainment opportunities, and affordable housing options. The neighborhoods of Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Westwood, Culver City, and Pasadena offer an ideal combination of quality schools, diverse communities, and a range of family-friendly activities for all. Make sure to consider these neighborhoods when choosing a home in Los Angeles for your family.
