What Is Los Angeles Known For? A Guide for LA Renters [2025]

Asking, "What is Los Angeles known for?" might inspire thoughts of beachfront fun, iconic Hollywood landmarks, nightlife, entertainment, and even sprawling freeways. Beyond the usual go-to clichés, Los Angeles is also a city of contrasts and endless possibilities. Renters also have their choice of cultural neighborhoods, cutting-edge food scenes, and scenic outdoor spaces.

Los Angeles welcomes everyone, whether you’re moving to pursue your dreams in the entertainment industry or simply want an ideal balance of sunshine and opportunity. With its unique mix of relaxed coastal charm and ambitious urban energy, it’s no surprise LA draws newcomers from every corner of the world.

What Is Los Angeles Best Known For?

1. Hollywood Sign and Walk of Fame

Hollywood is the undisputed heart of Los Angeles' entertainment industry. Here you’ll find the Hollywood Sign, a global symbol of fame and fortune, has appeared in countless films, TV shows, and video games, from The Italian Job and Austin Powers to Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and Bojack Horseman. Meanwhile, the Walk of Fame stretches for 15 blocks, honoring over 2,800 entertainment legends, from actors and musicians to directors and even fictional characters.

This energetic neighborhood is a magnet for tourists and aspiring entertainers, offering a mix of historic landmarks, buzzing nightlife, and major film studios. With major film studios, buzzing nightlife, and historic landmarks, Hollywood is a dream for some and a spectacle for others.

2. LA Beaches

Los Angeles is just as famous for its celebrities as it is for its sun-soaked coastline. With 284 sunny days a year, residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures and seaside relaxation nearly year-round. Each beach offers a distinct experience, from the bustling energy of Venice Beach to the iconic charm of Santa Monica and the scenic beauty of Malibu.

Among these, Santa Monica blends classic beach town charm with an energetic atmosphere. The Santa Monica Pier, with its Ferris wheel, rollercoaster, and lively boardwalk, serves as a vibrant hub for visitors. Adding to its appeal, a scenic bike path connects Santa Monica to Venice Beach, allowing cyclists and joggers to take in breathtaking ocean views along the way.

Following this coastal route leads to Venice Beach, where the famous boardwalk is alive with street performers, artists, and unique vendors. The skate park draws skilled skaters, while Muscle Beach remains a legendary outdoor gym for bodybuilders. For those seeking a quieter retreat, the nearby Venice Canals offer a serene escape with picturesque walkways and charming arched bridges.

Further up the coast, Malibu provides a more tranquil seaside experience. Known for its wide, pristine beaches, this coastal haven is perfect for those looking to unwind. Zuma Beach, in particular, attracts visitors with its soft sand, excellent surfing conditions, and frequent dolphin sightings just offshore.

3. Best Food in Los Angeles

Los Angeles offers everything from Michelin-starred dining to legendary food trucks, with flavors from around the world. From Korean BBQ in Koreatown to Mediterranean eats in Glendale, there’s always something to try.

One of LA’s most iconic food experiences is its taco trucks, which serve up some of the best street food in the city. Among them, Leo’s Tacos is a top spot for al pastor while the Kogi truck blends Korean-Mexican flavors, featuring legendary short rib tacos.

For those looking for an immersive dining experience, Koreatown is home to world-class Korean BBQ, with Soowon Galbi and Ahgassi Gopchang serving premium cuts with authentic banchan for an unforgettable meal.

Meanwhile, Glendale is a go-to destination for Mediterranean cuisine, particularly Armenian and Lebanese flavors. From fresh kebabs to house-made hummus, the area boasts some of LA’s most authentic and flavorful dishes, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Looking for a classic LA restaurant that has stood the test of time? Iconic spots like Musso & Frank Grill, Canter’s, Philippe the Original, Lawry’s, Porto’s, Norm’s, and Bob’s Big Boy continue to draw visitors and locals like.

4. LA Nightlife

Los Angeles is known for its legendary nightlife, offering everything from rooftop bars with sweeping city views to live music venues that have shaped music history. Intimate performances at the Troubadour and star-studded concerts at the Hollywood Bowl keep music lovers entertained, while cocktail lounges, clubs, and comedy venues provide endless options for a night out.

West Hollywood is packed with high-energy dance clubs, stylish cocktail bars, and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene. Downtown LA offers sleek rooftop lounges, hidden speakeasies, and buzzing gastropubs, making it a favorite for those looking for a more upscale night out. The Sunset Strip is home to legendary rock venues like The Roxy and Whisky a Go Go, where icons such as The Doors and Guns N’ Roses got their start. For a more relaxed evening, The Laugh Factory and The Comedy Store feature top-tier stand-up acts, drawing both up-and-coming comics and world-famous comedians.

5. Outdoor Activities in LA

Los Angeles is not just a city of stars and beaches. It’s also a haven for outdoor adventurers. From rugged mountain trails to tranquil urban parks, LA’s diverse landscape offers countless ways to reconnect with nature. Despite its urban sprawl, less than an hour outside the city you can go hiking, surfing, and take scenic drives, making it an ideal destination for outdoor lovers.

Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., is a favorite among locals and visitors. Its hiking trails wind through the hills, offering panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign, Downtown LA, and even the Pacific Ocean on clear days. The park is also home to the Griffith Observatory, where stargazers can admire the cosmos while taking in one of the best city views.

For those craving a coastal escape, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) offers one of the most scenic oceanfront drives in the world. Winding along the coastline, the route passes stunning beaches, rocky cliffs, and picturesque seaside towns.

Closer to the city, Runyon Canyon Park provides an accessible nature retreat with challenging hiking trails, sweeping skyline views, and celebrity sightings along the way. The park’s location near Hollywood makes it one of LA’s most popular outdoor spots for fitness enthusiasts looking for a quick escape into nature.

6. LA Art Scene

The Los Angeles art scene is impressive to say the least, with everything from world-class museums to cutting-edge street art. The Getty stands as one of LA’s most celebrated institutions, featuring a vast collection of European masterpieces, photography, and decorative arts. Admission is free, though reserving tickets in advance is recommended.

For those drawn to modern and contemporary works, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is a must-visit, featuring renowned exhibits alongside interactive outdoor installations like Urban Light and Levitated Mass. Meanwhile, The Broad offers an exciting look at contemporary art, showcasing works from Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, and Jean-Michel Basquiat.

Beyond museums, LA’s art culture thrives at every level—from commercial galleries to artist-run spaces, pop-up exhibits, and street art collectives. The Arts District is a hub of creativity, packed with galleries, murals, and public art installations on every corner.

The Brewery Arts Complex, one of the largest live/work artist communities in the world, houses over 300 artists’ studios and opens its doors to the public for special events. Art lovers can also explore an ever-evolving mix of art fairs, community-driven projects, and underground exhibitions, while collectors and philanthropists actively fuel the city's thriving creative economy.

7. Wellness and Fitness Culture

Los Angeles is renowned for its health-conscious culture, where boutique fitness studios, yoga classes, beachfront surfing sessions, and plant-based dining are all part of daily life. Fitness isn’t just a routine here—it’s a lifestyle. Salads are a staple diet and Lululemon leggings are a religion.

LA’s obsession with fitness is deeply tied to aesthetics, a mindset shaped by Hollywood’s long-standing emphasis on cut and chiseled physiques. The influence of celebrities is hard to ignore, as many frequent the same gyms and wellness centers, leading locals to adopt the latest trendy workouts, juice cleanses, and wellness treatments.

Options range from high-intensity boutique classes and yoga studios to sweat lodges, cryotherapy sessions, and guided meditation retreats. No matter what kind of active lifestyle someone wants to pursue, LA offers a seemingly endless selection of ways to move, sweat, and stay healthy.

8. Best Colleges in Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, top schools like the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), the University of Southern California (USC), and the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) attract students from around the world, adding to the city’s intellectual and cultural diversity. With world-renowned programs in film, business, engineering, and the performing arts, these universities play a key role in shaping LA’s creative and professional landscape.

Other schools like Loyola Marymount University (LMU), Otis College of Art and Design, and ArtCenter College of Design further contribute to LA’s reputation as a city of visionaries and trailblazers. From tech startups to major film studios, the city’s universities ensure Los Angeles remains a global leader in education, creativity, and industry influence.

9. Best Theme Parks in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a thrill-seeker’s paradise, home to some of the most iconic theme parks in the world. Universal Studios Hollywood brings movie magic to life with its world-famous Studio Tour, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses of real film sets and immersive attractions like Jurassic World. The highlight for many in Los Angeles, though, is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where visitors can wander through Hogsmeade, sip on Butterbeer, and ride the thrilling Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

Just a short drive away, Disneyland Park in Anaheim is a must-visit for those looking to experience the original magic of Disney. With its beloved classics like Space Mountain and new favorites like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the park continues to be a dream destination for visitors of all ages. Next door, Disney California Adventure Park offers a more modern twist with Avengers Campus, Pixar Pier, and the exhilarating Incredicoaster.

For families looking for a mix of thrill rides and old-school charm, Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park delivers with heart-pounding roller coasters like GhostRider and HangTime, alongside Western-themed attractions, live shows, and a taste of its famous boysenberry treats.

Renter Life in Los Angeles

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,843
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,350
• Median home value: $912,500
• Population: 3,820,914

Living in Los Angeles offers access to world-class amenities, but it comes at a steep price tag. The city’s sprawling layout means renters can choose between urban apartments in Downtown LA, beachfront homes in Santa Monica, or suburban options in the San Fernando Valley.

If you look at the U.S. Census Bureau data, you’ll find the median household income in Los Angeles is $80,366. This figure isn’t much higher than the national average of $78,538. You can also consider the 30% rule when figuring out how much to spend on rent. The rule of thumb stipulates you should spend no more than 30% of your take-home pay on rent. If you spend $1,874 on a one-bedroom apartment, you should earn at least $74,960 a year, or $6,246.67 a month, after taxes to comfortably afford rent. You may need to make adjustments if you have high student loan repayments, are saving for retirement, or want to splurge on travel.

Economy and Jobs in Los Angeles

Los Angeles boasts a strong economy, powered by industries such as entertainment, technology, aerospace, healthcare, international trade, and finance. Despite shifts in film and television production post-pandemic, LA remains one of the largest global hubs for film and media, generating billions in revenue and maintaining its status as a cultural powerhouse. The city is also home to one of the busiest container ports in the Americas, making it a critical center for international trade and logistics.

In addition, LA’s technology sector continues to grow, with companies like SpaceX, Hulu, and Ubisoft Film & Television leading the charge in innovation. Fashion, apparel, petroleum, and tourism also contribute to the city's economic landscape, while its influence in finance and law makes it the sixth most competitive financial center in the U.S.

Major employers in Los Angeles span a variety of industries, providing opportunities for professionals across different fields. Kaiser Permanente is one of the largest employers in LA County, with nearly 45,000 employees. Other well-known companies like Trader Joe’s, Panda Express, and Farmers Insurance Group also call LA home.

Los Angeles Population

Los Angeles is a vibrant and diverse city with a population of 3,820,914 as of the 2023 Census. As a true melting pot, nearly 35% of residents are foreign-born, and at least 185 languages are spoken in households across LA County. The city has a strong Hispanic and Latino presence, making up 47.2% of the population, followed by White (37.3%), Asian (12.0%), Black (8.5%), and multiracial (15.7%) communities. Los Angeles has long been a hub for immigrants and recently declared itself a sanctuary city, reinforcing its commitment to protecting and supporting its immigrant population.

LA’s social scene is often described as friendly and casual, with people engaging in lighthearted conversations in public but sometimes hesitating to form deep bonds due to the city’s fast-paced, ever-changing environment. Still, Los Angeles is known for its openness, creativity, and welcoming attitude, making it easy to find communities of like-minded people, no matter the interest. With a large population of artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators, LA embraces new ideas, cultures, and lifestyles, offering something for everyone.

Best Places to Live in Los Angeles

Los Angeles offers a neighborhood for every lifestyle, whether you're looking for beachfront living, suburban charm, or city convenience. While some areas are known for luxury, others provide affordable housing, cultural diversity, and family-friendly amenities.

• Beverly Hills – Home to luxurious mansions, high-end shopping on Rodeo Drive, and celebrity hotspots.
• Santa Monica – A vibrant beachside city with the Santa Monica Pier, great dining, and top-rated schools.
• Venice – A bohemian beach town famous for its eclectic boardwalk, street performers, and canals.
• West Hollywood – Known for trendy nightlife, LGBTQ+ culture, and a mix of modern apartments and historic homes.
• Downtown Los Angeles – A hub for high-rise living, cultural landmarks, and a growing dining and arts scene.
• Culver City – A walkable neighborhood with a booming tech and media industry, great restaurants, and art galleries.
• South Pasadena – A quiet, family-friendly suburb with tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a charming downtown.
• Silver Lake – A trendy, artistic enclave known for indie coffee shops, hipster boutiques, and scenic reservoirs.
• North Hollywood – A creative hub with budget-friendly rentals, lively nightlife, and the NoHo Arts District.
• San Fernando Valley – Encompasses Panorama City, Reseda, and Sun Valley, offering suburban affordability and family-friendly parks.

Find Your Next Apartment in Los Angeles

Looking for the perfect place to call home in Los Angeles? Whether you’re drawn to the bustling energy of Downtown, the beachy vibe of Santa Monica, or the creative charm of Silver Lake, LA has a neighborhood that’s perfect for you.

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