The Best Los Angeles Neighborhoods For Young Professionals

Young professionals looking to live, work, and mingle in the City of Angels are in luck. The majestic big city is awaiting, motivating young minds on the fast track to success. Often nicknamed the “creative capital of the world,” L.A. is all about reputable universities and major corporations—not to mention the iconic Hollywood, where dreams come true. Los Angeles is also known for its cultural diversity, distinct lifestyle, and abundance of parks and beaches, attracting many millennials and young up-and-comers. If the big city is calling your name, take a tour of the best Los Angeles neighborhoods for young professionals to settle down before you make your move. 

1. Culver City

Found on the west side of Los Angeles, Culver City is a popular place to live due to its undeniable economical growth over the past few years—making it one of the best neighborhoods for young professionals. A splendid mix of millennials and families have decided to call this neighborhood their home.

Take a leisurely stroll through Culver City Park or Lindberg Park, among many other outdoor spaces, for a nice workout during your busy schedule. On the weekends or in your downtime, head to The Wende Museum and the Culver City Historical Society. After traveling back in time, enjoy a culinary journey in Culver City's local restaurants. Dine on your favorite Italian dishes at Bianca or head to Destroyer for glazed beef brisket, a slow-roasted porchetta sandwich, and root vegetable hash. 

2. Silver Lake

This lively Los Angeles neighborhood attracts young professionals from in and out of state—mainly for its impressive entertainment and shopping features. A hipster yet family-friendly zone, Silver Lake offers a vigorous art scene along with contemporary architecture. Healthy foodies will also love lunching in Silver Lake—Sweetgreen boasts a menu of organic salads, soups, and bowls; you'll find Sweetgreen locations throughout the area.

Silver Lake is all about the Sunset Boulevard feels and prominent parks; the neighborhood is home to numerous green spaces such as Silver Lake Meadows and Silver Lake Dog Park. Head to the Silver Lake Recreation Center for a jog around the Silver Lake Reservoir when you need an energizing boost. 

3. Beverlywood

Beverlywood is conveniently located near the 405, 101, and Sepulveda Boulevard, so young professionals can better avoid the notorious L.A. traffic. The neighborhood’s palm tree-lined streets showcase lovely schools, too.

In Beverlywood, Latin cuisine is where it’s at. Head to The Empanada Factory (home to—you guessed it—gourmet empanadas, homemade dipping sauces, and more) and Campos Tacos for fantastic fare. With a population of approximately 12,400, Beverlywood is all about seclusion and relaxation but is within close proximity to the large cities nearby, making it one of the best areas to live in Los Angeles for young professionals.

4. Los Feliz

Settled right next to Griffith Park, Los Feliz is among the best neighborhoods for young professionals in California. The upscale region offers safe streets and a beautiful array of lavish homes and townhouses. There's no need to drive here, either. In Los Feliz, there are plenty of local restaurants within walking distance; get a taste of Indian cuisine at Bombay Beach or Mr. Masala, where you can experience finger-licking traditional goodness. You can even forget about driving to your downtown office, with the L.A. Expo Line being so close to Los Feliz—one of the most affordable places to live in Los Angeles.

Loz Feliz locals live for Saturdays. With Griffith Park right under your nose, you won’t have to worry about being bored. Admire the views from the Griffith Observatory, go for a run on the scenic trails, or enjoy a short hike to the Hollywood Sign to feel the burn early in the day.

5. Downtown Los Angeles

With a strong sense of community, plenty of public parks, large-city amenities, and walkable streets, downtown Los Angeles is a prime location for young professionals to settle. The neighborhood is vastly modernizing its old-fashioned estates—you can now rent a loft with sky-high ceilings from the area’s most coveted historical buildings. About 85,000 residents call this area home, and there's just the right mix of dense urban feels along with historical and outdoor beauty to balance it out. 

The restaurant scene in D.T.L.A. doesn’t require much more hype than it already has, either. With global menus and trendy dining destinations aplenty in this neighborhood, including the snazzy Redbird and the hip Bestia, the only issue you’ll have is making a decision. 

6. Santa Monica

It's hard to beat Santa Monica. For starters, the beach is right there, making it possible to live that relaxed Southern California lifestyle. The neighborhood’s casual local eateries and farmers markets also give a whole new meaning to outdoor living; the area hosts four weekly farmers markets, so farm-to-table aficionados can easily get their fill of fresh produces and locally made treats. Another all-time favorite among locals and visitors is Third Street Promenade, a popular shopping destination.

Bookworms will love joining the Santa Monica Public Library’s book discussion group or simply checking out a book to read at the beach. Speaking of the beach—Santa Monica State Beach is the perfect excuse to leave your house and enjoy quality time outdoors. The 3.5-mile sandy stretch spreads to the north and south of Santa Monica Pier. Grab your surfing essentials at Poseidon Paddle and Surf and head to the Pacific Ocean waters with your friends. There's also a paved path suitable for biking, running, and jogging. 

7. Chinatown

Chinatown is hands down one of Los Angeles' most notable neighborhoods. This area was primarily sought out by immigrants seeking new ventures and opportunities in the 1930s; since then, the neighborhood has seen another revival. Los Angeles State Historic Park stretches through Chinatown, boasting plenty of outdoor space for a quick workout before starting your workday. Chinese art is everywhere, too. Head to the Chinatown Gateway Monument, Thien Hau Temple, and Chung King Road with red lanterns hanging above.

This is also one of the best Los Angeles neighborhoods for young professionals to eat, eat, and eat—and of course, work a bit in between. Restaurants such as Golden Dragon whip up delicious dim sum. But that’s not all; the dining scene is constantly expanding to include unique and mouthwatering items. For instance, Howlin’ Ray’s is a hot chicken spot serving up delectable Nashville-inspired dishes. So, don't discount this prominent Chinatown in California when looking for a place to live.