Where exactly to live? (Not this again, I know.. ) (Santa Monica: rent, how much)

[ajctraveler]

I've been reading other "which part of LA" threads for a bit, but obviously every situation is unique and I would appreciate some tailored advice given my specific situation. And this seems to be a pretty helpful forum, so I figured I'd give this intro/advice thread a shot.

Me:

Almost 30

Lived in NYC for 7 years

Was VP of a transportation company (family business)

Finally had enough of working with family and decided to sell everything and travel for a while. That was almost two years ago. Had some pretty interesting adventures around Europe and Africa, but that's another thread..

Part of the idea of moving to LA is that I wouldn't mind having a "home base" again, the other part being an idea for a business that I have and think (purely based on hearsay and stereotypes) that LA would be a good place to start it.

The kicker is, I've never been to LA before, or even California for that matter. I will however be there this week, but only for 5 days, so I'm basically looking at it as a test period; during which, I'd like to focus my time and energy on checking out the "right" neighborhoods.

Where to live:

I'm not into clubs, but I would like to be able to live within walking distance of nicer bars (read: not pubs).

Garage parking is a must.

I would like to live around other 20 somethings.

Near the beach would be nice, but I don't want to feel like I'm "out of the mix"

Ideally rent of 2-2.5k


Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,

Tony

[SandyCo]

You might try Hermosa Beach; there are some decent bars and clubs along the pier. I'm not sure what rents run around there; I assume it depends on just how close you are to the beach, if the place has a view, etc.

The business that you're thinking of starting, is this something you're going to do from home? Because then, of course, you could live pretty much anywhere.

If you lived in NYC, you know all about the high cost of living in big cities, so I won't lecture you about that.

[timtemtym]

I agree with Hermosa Beach. It's got some swanky little areas close to the beach and nice bars/restaurants. The crowd that I know there includes mid-upper income young singles or marrieds with no kids. They are educated and moving up in their careers. It's different from the Santa Monica vibe. Hermosa/Manhattan/Redondo don't seem to be as in to protecting the income diversity that Santa Monica goes for. It's not a flashy wealthy area, but people have money and want a nice fun place.

[ajctraveler]

Thank you both, Hermosa Beach does look like it could work for me.


As far as the business goes, it's going to be in a few places around LA I think, so there isn't going to be any way to avoid commuting. The upside being, almost anywhere I chose to live would be near one of the potential locations



Any other opinions?

[thelopez2]

Originally Posted by ajctraveler

Thank you both, Hermosa Beach does look like it could work for me.


As far as the business goes, it's going to be in a few places around LA I think, so there isn't going to be any way to avoid commuting. The upside being, almost anywhere I chose to live would be near one of the potential locations



Any other opinions?

Everywhere along the coast santa monica to huntington beach except Palos Verdes and Im unsure what San Pedro has to offer since i don't go there. it really depends where you will work and how much and when you will be driving. You won't feel out of it anywhere.