Affectionately dubbed North Hollywood, North Hollywood is a neighborhood in Los Angeles where the art scene thrives, the streets buzz with charm, and you're always close to the Hollywood sign.
Popular for the North Hollywood Arts District, the neighborhood's proximity to the entertainment industry is a winning creative combo.
Its endless roster of cafes and indie theaters makes it a dream destination for professionals and families alike.
But living in North Hollywood is not all sun-soaked strolls and Instagram-worthy lattes. The cost of living, especially housing, can give even seasoned California residents pause.
Beyond the price tag, life comes with nuances only locals truly understand.
Whether you're contemplating moving to North Hollywood or have already packed boxes, here are what you need to know to thrive in North Hollywood.
Brace Yourself for Sticker Shock
To address the elephant in the room housing is expensive in North Hollywood, even by LA standards.
If you come from outside California, prepare for some major adjustments. It's not uncommon for one-bedroom apartments to rent for over $2,000.
Then, there's the housing type thing:
Older complexes often have "vintage charm," like no central AC, while newer builds offer luxe amenities at a price that might rival a mortgage.
You can look for rent-controlled units or consider co-living arrangements they are surprisingly common here.
Bonus points if you snag a spot within walking distance of the Metro Red Line, as this can save you serious gas money.
High Cost of Living: It's Not Just Rent
Beyond housing, day-to-day expenses like groceries, gas, and dining out can add up quickly.
Moving to North Hollywood means making peace with living at a cost 41% higher than the national average.
North Hollywood food scene tempts you with everything from vegan sushi to old-school taco trucks.
But eating out regularly will dent your wallet.
However, here's a simple tip to help you save some extra cash: farmers' markets and discount grocery stores like Grocery Outlet are lifesavers.
Cooking at home will save you big bucks and allow you to experiment with the amazing local produce.
Traffic is A Lifestyle Here, Not an Inconvenience
North Hollywood is in LA, so traffic is as constant as the sunshine.
The 101 and 170 freeways are your frenemy—essential but often jammed.
Locals know to budget travel time like their life depends on it because, honestly, it does.
This is why you need to liaise with local movers in North Hollywood before you move here.
This way, you don't need to get stuck in traffic. Unless you have a great playlist, your traffic time will likely be unbearable.
Notwithstanding, North Hollywood is one of the few areas in LA with decent public transit
options. The Metro B Line (Red) can quickly get you to downtown LA or Hollywood.
There are also bike-friendly paths that make cycling a viable option for short commutes.
Parking — A Daily Challenge
In line with the traffic woes, living in North Hollywood comes with a parking challenge.
If you get lucky and have a dedicated parking spot, visiting friends or local hotspots might have you scratching your head in confusion.
Street parking fills up fast, and meters can be expensive. An alternative is to invest in a sturdy bike or a reliable pair of walking shoes.
North Hollywood is pretty walkable, and many attractions are close enough to avoid the car altogether.
The Economy is Competitive
North Hollywood's proximity to the entertainment industry makes it a central location for aspiring actors, writers, and producers.
Moving to North Hollywood if you're in the creative field is a great idea, as you'll find lots of opportunities here. But the competition is fierce!
However, beyond entertainment, North Hollywood also boasts a growing tech and start-up scene. There are opportunities in hospitality and retail.
Note: Freelancing is a big deal here. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr thrive in North Hollywood gig economy. So, brush up on your digital skills if you are looking to supplement your income.
The Local Culture is Artsy and Occasionally Pretentious
North Hollywood is unapologetically artsy.
The North Hollywood Arts District has theaters, galleries, and even street art. But this cultural haven also comes with unspoken rules:
While locals are warm and welcoming, they tend to side-eye anyone who dismisses their creative ambitions.
So, respect the hustle; it's what makes North Hollywood tick.
Is North Hollywood a Safe Neighborhood?
The overall crime rate in North Hollywood is higher than the national average. But, like any urban area, North Hollywood has its safe areas and less polished edges.
Locals say the southwestern parts of the neighborhood are generally safer, with about a 1 in 480 chance of you falling victim to a violent crime.
The northeastern part is rougher, with a 1 in 87 chance of falling victim to violent crime.
On that note, the North Hollywood Arts District and Toluca Lake are considered safe.
So, as you plan on moving to North Hollywood, know that some parts of the neighborhood may see higher crime rates.
per 1,000 residents | North Hollywood median | Los Angeles median | National median |
Violent crime | 5.3 | 8.38 | 4 |
Property crime | 20.57 | 27.53 | 20 |
Education Quality is Above Average
Life in North Hollywood doesn't support only artistic people—academic champions have a place here as well.
North Hollywood offers a variety of educational options, with public schools like North Hollywood High School standing out for its Highly Gifted Magnet program.
You should know that the school also consistently ranks among the best in California.
Elementary schools like Colfax Charter and Rio Vista Elementary are popular for their strong academics and active parent involvement.
However, some public schools here face challenges like overcrowding.
The Weather is Hot!
Call it the California heat or the LA heat, but North Hollywood summers are intense!
Temperatures can easily soar above 100°F, and the lack of coastal breezes makes it feel hotter. If your apartment lacks central AC, invest in blackout curtains and fans.
Boredom is Unrelatable to Residents
One beautiful thing about having the Hollywood Hills and a whole other part of Los Angeles within reach is that there is always plenty to do.
The challenge is not finding things to do but deciding what to do first.
From small theater performances to outdoor movie nights at North Hollywood Park, something is happening right in this neighborhood.
Some of the must-see spots and must-do activities include:
Final Thoughts — North Hollywood Uncovered
North Hollywood is as dynamic as you can find in the region. But it has managed to balance artistic flair with the practicalities of city life.
The cost of living may be high, and traffic can be daunting. However, those who love the energy of a diverse community will find that moving to North Hollywood is worth the effort.
So, if you're prepared for the upscale lifestyle and willing to embrace the culture, you'll quickly feel right at home in North Hollywood.
