I’m a former 20-year West Hollywood resident returning to the city this summer after 5 years away. I’m a single mom with an 8-year-old (rising 3rd grader) and I WFH. I’m looking for that elusive tight-knit, liberal, walkable community - basically the parent version of the WeHo life I loved. Think kids playing in the streets and at nearby park.
The Location:
I WFH so commute isn’t an issue.
I love West Hollywood and would honestly love to move back, specifically in the Laurel Elementary zone (from what I hear). Are there a lot of kids out and about - walking/biking to friend’s house or park play dates would be ideal.
I’m also looking at NELA, Silver Lake, Los Feliz, Echo Park, Highland Park, and Studio City. I’ve considered South Pas, but it feels far away from my people in WeHo. If the community is right, I can be convinced :)
I don’t know anything about living in any of these neighborhoods so let it rip…
The Housing Struggle:
I’ve been browsing Studio City (good schools, Ventura Blvd walkability, safe), but everything in my budget feels like a sterile, underwhelming box. I’m shooting for a smaller building with character - a bungalow, a guest house, or a vintage small building would be the dream.
Must-Haves:
• Schools: A solid public elementary district with a "small-town" parent community. Major bonus for good middle and high school!
• Walkability/Safety: Must be a safe neighborhood for dog walks that is also close to coffee, restaurants, and local shops so I don’t have to drive for every little thing.
• Diversity
• Budget: $3500 for a 2-bedroom.
Questions for the group:
- For those in West Hollywood: How is the community at Laurel Elementary? Any other schools/neighborhood pockets to consider?
- Which are the best pockets of NELA and the Eastside that fit my needs?
- Any specific buildings in Studio City to consider that have a nice community feel?
- Are there any smaller, micro-neighborhoods I'm missing that offer that old-school LA charm but are still safe for a family walking around?
Thank you!!