Where to live in LA with a USC job offer? (Los Angeles: best neighborhood, real estate)

[lhcstl]

Dear guys,

I got a job offer from USC, and I am planning to buy a condo/townhouse in LA area. I need some advice on which areas I should consider.

Maybe a bit more about myself (not a personal, just to find area that works for me!): single gay male (not a west hollywood type!), mid 30s, like city environment but do not like areas which are too noisy, crowded, or with too many "flashy" people. Like safe neighborhood with good city planning and reasonable real estate values.

Thanks a lot!!!

Sean

[andyourlittledogtoo]

You could go to Mid-Wilshire area, or the downtown redevelopment district has some great condos I understand. I'd go to Santa Monica myself.

What I definitely would not do is buy or rent anywhere near USC itself. Not the best neighborhood by a long shot.

ETA: Of course, if you want to drive a little further and your income permits, I'd look at South Pasadena or the beach communities in the south bay - Manhattan, Hermosa, Redondo Beach. But if you're looking for a more urban scene then Santa Monica or West Los Angeles might be a better choice for you.

[Charles]

Originally Posted by lhcstl

Like safe neighborhood with good city planning and reasonable real estate values.

If heading to USC on a regular basis sounds like a long time practice, don't discount looking for real estate on an efficient public service route like a train or bus route. You may be able to live a little farther away in a place you like and still avoid nasty driving.

[motoman]

You can find everything you want within a reasonable distance. But reasonable real estate values is a relative, and personal matter. You'll need to define that first.

[lhcstl]

Thanks guys for your responses.

I guess by saying "reasonable real estate values", I meant such as single family houses in the 500-650k range, and condos in the 400-500k range, and they perceived to be nice neighborhoods.

I do like a bit more of an urban setting, not typical surbuban neighborhoods. However, I guess areas such as west hollywood might be a bit too urban for my taste, if you know what I mean.

Thanks again.

[King0fthehill]

Mar Vista/Palms or Culver City.

[JackSparrow]

Live near where you work.