12 Absolutely Dreamy Places to Live in Los Angeles for Families with Kids

Los Angeles isn’t just movie stars and palm trees—it’s a dream for families looking for the perfect place to call home. Imagine weekend hikes in Griffith Park, bike rides along the Venice Boardwalk, and lazy Sundays exploring The Huntington’s lush gardens. Whether you’re after top-rated schools, kid-friendly neighborhoods, or just a backyard big enough for epic playdates, LA has something for every family. After exploring the city, I can tell you—some neighborhoods just get it right. Here are 12 of the absolute best places in LA to raise a family.

Top Places to Live in Los Angeles for Families

Looking for the best places to live in Los Angeles for families? Enjoy coastal living in Santa Monica, with excellent schools and family-friendly parks. Experience a laid-back beach town vibe in Manhattan Beach, known for its safety and strong community. Settle in Glendale for great schools, diverse dining, and suburban charm. For luxury living, Beverly Hills offers top-tier amenities and prestigious schools. Whether you prioritize education, safety, or lifestyle, these are the top family-friendly neighborhoods in Los Angeles.

• Best for beachside living: Santa Monica
• Best for suburban comfort: Glendale
• Best for luxury beach lifestyle: Manhattan Beach
• Best for urban vibrancy: Culver City
• Best for creative community: Silver Lake
• Best for balanced suburban life: Sherman Oaks
• Best for luxury and exclusivity: Beverly Hills
• Best for family-friendly suburbia: Burbank
• Best for artistic charm: Los Feliz
• Best for eclectic beach culture: Venice
• Best for planned suburban living: Irvine
• Best for traditional elegance: Cheviot Hills

1. Santa Monica

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,500 – $6,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Beachfront living, bustling pier, walkable city
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🏖️, professionals 💼, health-conscious residents 🥗

If waking up to ocean breezes, biking along the beach, and having top-notch schools nearby sounds like a dream, Santa Monica might be your perfect home base. This coastal hotspot balances laid-back vibes with city perks, making it one of the best places in LA for families.

Kids will love the Santa Monica Pier, where arcade games, an aquarium, and a classic Ferris wheel bring nonstop fun. Just steps away, Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining hub. Parents rave about the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District, consistently ranked among California’s best.

Outdoor enthusiasts have miles of sandy beaches, Palisades Park’s ocean views, and the Marvin Braude Bike Trail at their doorstep. Plus, with its booming tech industry (“Silicon Beach”) and thriving food scene, Santa Monica is perfect for families who want both relaxation and excitement—all with a Pacific Coast sunset as the backdrop.

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2. Glendale

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $4,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Family-friendly, great schools, vibrant Armenian culture
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 🏡, commuters 🚗, foodies 🍽️

Nestled between the San Fernando Valley and Downtown LA, Glendale is a hidden gem where families can enjoy top-rated schools, scenic parks, and a strong sense of community. It’s got all the suburban comforts without feeling isolated—perfect for those who want space to breathe but easy access to city life.

Shopping lovers flock to The Americana at Brand, a stunning outdoor mall with a mix of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and a choreographed fountain show that keeps kids entertained. For nature lovers, Brand Park and Deukmejian Wilderness Park offer hiking trails with sweeping mountain views.

Glendale is home to a thriving Armenian community, bringing with it some of the best Middle Eastern food in LA—think mouthwatering kebabs and fresh-baked lavash. The schools here rank among LA’s best, and with a low crime rate, it’s one of the safest places to raise a family in the city.

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3. Manhattan Beach

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $4,000 – $7,000
• 🌟 Unique Features: Upscale coastal living, surfing spots, high-end restaurants
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌊
• 🏆 Perfect For: Surfers 🏄, executives 💼, luxury seekers 🏡

Manhattan Beach is where surf culture meets luxury living, making it one of LA’s most desirable (and stunning) places to live. Families here get the ultimate beachside experience, with highly rated schools, endless outdoor activities, and a small-town feel—all just minutes from the city.

Life here revolves around the ocean. The Manhattan Beach Pier is a local icon, perfect for sunset strolls and visiting the Roundhouse Aquarium. The nearby Strand is a scenic coastal walkway where joggers, bikers, and families soak up the California sunshine.

Manhattan Beach isn’t just about the waves—it’s also home to some of the best public schools in the state, plus trendy boutiques, farmers’ markets, and top-tier restaurants. From morning surf sessions to beach bonfires with neighbors, this is LA’s version of a postcard-perfect beach town—and families who move here never look back.

4. Culver City

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,800 – $5,200
• 🌟 Unique Features: Entertainment industry hub, trendy eateries, tech startups
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🎬
• 🏆 Perfect For: Creatives 🎨, professionals 💻, film enthusiasts 🎥

If you want a family-friendly neighborhood with a creative spark, Culver City is where it’s at. Once known as the heart of LA’s film industry, this area has transformed into one of the city’s coolest places to live—packed with parks, great schools, and a buzzing food scene.

Culver City’s walkable downtown is a dream for parents pushing strollers or grabbing brunch at spots like Destroyer or Lodge Bread Co.. Sony Pictures Studios keeps the old Hollywood magic alive, while spots like The Culver Steps bring together shopping, dining, and community events.

Families love the top-rated Culver City Unified School District, plus easy access to kid-friendly attractions like the Museum of Jurassic Technology and Kenneth Hahn Park. And with its prime location—between Santa Monica, DTLA, and LAX—Culver City puts the best of LA at your fingertips.

5. Silver Lake

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $4,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Hipster haven, indie shops, artsy vibe
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🎶
• 🏆 Perfect For: Artists 🎨, musicians 🎶, young professionals 👩‍🎤

Silver Lake is LA’s artsy, free-spirited gem, where bohemian charm, creative energy, and family-friendly vibes collide. If you love eclectic coffee shops, colorful street art, and scenic reservoir walks, this neighborhood should be on your radar.

At the heart of it all is the Silver Lake Reservoir, a go-to spot for stroller walks, dog runs, and weekend picnics. The area’s famous staircases, hidden among hills lined with mid-century homes and Spanish-style bungalows, make every stroll an adventure.

Families here enjoy a tight-knit community with excellent public and private schools, plus endless weekend fun at Sunset Junction’s indie boutiques and the Silver Lake Farmers’ Market. And if you’re into food? You’re in for a treat—Silver Lake is home to some of LA’s best eats, from breakfast burritos at Tacos Delta to wood-fired pizza at Masa of Echo Park.

6. Sherman Oaks

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,300 – $4,300
• 🌟 Unique Features: Suburban feel, excellent dining, great nightlife
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌳
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 🏡, young professionals 💼, commuters 🚗

If you’re after a suburban feel with city perks, Sherman Oaks delivers. Nestled in the San Fernando Valley, this neighborhood is a favorite for families who want top-rated schools, plenty of parks, and a laid-back lifestyle—without sacrificing easy access to LA hotspots.

Ventura Boulevard is the main artery, lined with trendy cafés, boutique fitness studios, and some of the best sushi joints in town. Families spend weekends at Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Park, where playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas make for a perfect day out.

Housing options range from charming mid-century homes to modern mansions in the hills, offering a little something for everyone. With highly rated schools and a strong community feel, Sherman Oaks is ideal for families who want a relaxed, family-friendly vibe while staying close to LA’s action.

7. Beverly Hills

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $5,000 – $10,000+
• 🌟 Unique Features: Luxury shopping, exclusive real estate, celebrity sightings
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌴
• 🏆 Perfect For: High-net-worth individuals 💎, executives 💼, luxury seekers 🏛️

Yes, it’s as glamorous as it sounds—but Beverly Hills isn’t just for celebrities. This iconic neighborhood also offers exceptional schools, pristine parks, and a small-town feel hidden behind the luxury storefronts.

Families love Beverly Gardens Park, a green oasis perfect for weekend strolls and relaxation, farmers’ markets, and picnics under the palm trees. The Beverly Hills Unified School District is one of the best in California, and with low crime rates and well-manicured streets, safety and quality of life are a given. The food? Absolutely delicious!

Beyond the glitz of Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills has a strong community vibe, with local cafés, neighborhood events, and family-friendly hotspots like Greystone Mansion & Gardens. It’s expensive, sure, but if you’re looking for luxury living with a family-friendly twist, Beverly Hills is hard to beat.

8. Burbank

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $4,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Home to major studios, safe neighborhoods, family-friendly
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🎥
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 🏡, entertainment industry professionals 🎬, commuters 🚗

If you want small-town charm with big-city perks, Burbank is where it’s at. Known as “The Media Capital of the World,” it’s home to Disney, Warner Bros., and Nickelodeon Studios—so don’t be surprised if you run into an animator grabbing coffee on Magnolia Boulevard.

But Burbank isn’t just about Hollywood magic—it’s also one of LA’s safest, most family-friendly neighborhoods. The Burbank Unified School District consistently ranks among the best, and parks like Wildwood Canyon and Johnny Carson Park offer plenty of green space for kids to run wild.

The city has a walkable, tight-knit feel, with family-owned restaurants, retro diners, and a vibrant local shopping scene. And thanks to less traffic and lower crime than other parts of LA, Burbank offers a stress-free, family-friendly alternative to the hustle of city life.

9. Los Feliz

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,800 – $5,000
• 🌟 Unique Features: Lush greenery, indie shops, historic charm
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌳
• 🏆 Perfect For: Artists 🎨, young professionals 💼, nature lovers 🌿

Los Feliz is where Old Hollywood charm meets modern creativity, offering a walkable, family-friendly neighborhood with a vibrant arts scene. Nestled at the base of Griffith Park, it’s perfect for families who love outdoor adventures, historic architecture, and a laid-back yet stylish vibe.

Weekends here mean hiking up to the Griffith Observatory, visiting the LA Zoo, or exploring the Autry Museum of the American West. Families can enjoy picnics at Griffith Park, pony rides at Shane’s Inspiration, or browsing the Los Feliz Village for bookstores, art galleries, and indie shops.

Los Feliz is known for its top-rated schools, including Franklin Avenue Elementary, and a mix of Spanish-style villas, mid-century homes, and charming bungalows. With its tight-knit community, buzzing local businesses, and proximity to nature, it’s one of LA’s most livable neighborhoods, offering the best of city life without the chaos.

10. Venice

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,500 – $6,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Iconic boardwalk, artsy community, beachfront homes
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌊
• 🏆 Perfect For: Surfers 🏄, creatives 🎭, entrepreneurs 💻

Venice is LA’s most eclectic beachfront neighborhood, where bohemian vibes, creative energy, and oceanfront living make for a one-of-a-kind community. If your family loves the beach, bike rides, and artistic culture, Venice might just be your perfect match.

The famous Venice Beach Boardwalk is always buzzing with street performers, local artists, and skaters, while the nearby Venice Canals offer a peaceful escape with charming bridges and waterfront homes. Families love weekends at Muscle Beach, Abbot Kinney Boulevard’s trendy shops, and the Venice Farmers’ Market.

With strong schools, a tight-knit community, and endless outdoor activities, Venice is ideal for those who want a laid-back, ocean-inspired lifestyle with a creative twist. Whether you’re grabbing an acai bowl, watching a sunset surf session, or biking The Strand, life in Venice feels like an endless summer.

11. Irvine

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,800 – $5,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Master-planned city, top-rated schools, tech hub
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌆
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 🏡, students 🎓, professionals 💼

If you’re looking for the ultimate master-planned community with top-tier schools, pristine parks, and serious safety, Irvine is where it’s at. Located in Orange County, just south of LA, this city is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and near-perfect weather.

Irvine’s public schools are consistently ranked among the best in California, and the city is filled with bike trails, outdoor shopping centers, and kid-friendly attractions like the Pretend City Children’s Museum. The Great Park is a favorite weekend spot, with hot air balloon rides, sports fields, and farmers’ markets.

With its low crime rate, strong job market, and abundance of green spaces, Irvine is a stress-free, suburban escape from LA’s hustle and bustle. It’s perfect for families looking for modern conveniences, excellent education, and a slower-paced lifestyle—all within easy reach of the beach and big-city excitement.

12. Cheviot Hills

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,000 – $6,000
• 🌟 Unique Features: Quiet residential area, spacious homes, proximity to LA
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🏡
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 🏡, retirees 🌅, professionals 💼

Tucked between Beverly Hills and Culver City, Cheviot Hills is one of LA’s best-kept secrets. This neighborhood blends classic elegance with a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, making it a prime spot for those looking for peaceful suburban living without leaving the city behind.

With tree-lined streets, beautiful parks, and spacious homes, Cheviot Hills feels like a quiet retreat. Families love Rancho Park, which offers golf courses, sports fields, and scenic jogging paths. The schools here are excellent, and its location makes commuting a breeze—downtown LA, Santa Monica, and LAX are all within a short drive.

If you want classic LA charm, a strong community feel, and easy access to everything the city has to offer, Cheviot Hills is as close to perfect as it gets. It’s no wonder this neighborhood consistently ranks among the best places to live in LA for families.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Places to Live in Los Angeles for Families

Curious about discovering the ideal neighborhoods in Los Angeles? I often receive many inquiries regarding the top residential areas in Los Angeles. Let’s delve into some frequently asked questions to help you learn more about the best places to settle in this vibrant city.

Is LA a Good Place to Live with Family?

Absolutely! Los Angeles offers a dynamic blend of family-friendly neighborhoods, excellent educational opportunities, and diverse cultural experiences, making it a best city to live in Los Angeles for families. The city boasts a variety of communities, each with its own unique character and amenities. From the beachside charm of Santa Monica to the suburban tranquility of Sherman Oaks, families can find their ideal setting.

LA’s year-round sunny weather encourages outdoor activities. Families enjoy parks, beaches, and hiking trails, fostering a healthy and active lifestyle. The city’s cultural diversity also means exposure to a wide range of cultural experiences, enhancing a child’s education beyond the classroom. Additionally, Los Angeles is home to some of the nation’s top schools and educational institutions.

The city’s vast array of museums, theaters, and family-friendly attractions provide endless entertainment and learning opportunities. In LA, families can experience a vibrant community life while also having access to the best that urban living has to offer.

Where is the Nicest Place to Live in Los Angeles?

Identifying the “nicest” place to live in Los Angeles depends largely on personal preferences and lifestyle choices. However, many regard areas like Santa Monica and Beverly Hills as top contenders. Santa Monica, with its beautiful beaches, excellent schools, and thriving community life, is ideal for those seeking a balance between urban amenities and beachside relaxation. It’s perfect for families and individuals who enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle.

Beverly Hills, known for its luxury and exclusivity, offers opulent living with access to top-tier shopping, dining, and entertainment. It’s a neighborhood that exudes sophistication and provides a sense of community within its lush, well-maintained streets.

Other notable mentions include Manhattan Beach for its laid-back beach lifestyle and family-friendly atmosphere, and Culver City for its blend of suburban comfort and urban vibrancy. Ultimately, the nicest place in LA is where you feel most at home, whether it’s in the heart of the city or in a quieter suburb.

Where is the Best Place for a Family to Live in Los Angeles?

For families, the best place to live in Los Angeles often combines quality education, safe neighborhoods, and family-oriented activities. Sherman Oaks is a prime example. It offers a suburban feel with excellent schools, abundant parks, and a strong sense of community, making it one of the most livable cities in Los Angeles for families.

Glendale is another top choice, known for its safety, diversity, and great schools. It provides a more laid-back atmosphere while still offering convenient access to city amenities.

For those who prefer a coastal lifestyle, Manhattan Beach is ideal. It’s not only beautiful but also boasts strong schools, a tight-knit community, and plenty of beachside activities for families.

Each of these neighborhoods offers its unique blend of community, education, and lifestyle, catering to the diverse needs of families in Los Angeles.

Is Santa Monica a Good Place to Raise Kids?

Yes, Santa Monica is an excellent place to raise kids. This beachside city stands out as one of the best places in Los Angeles to live in for families. It offers a blend of outdoor activities, quality education, and community-focused living.

• Outdoor Lifestyle: The city’s numerous beaches, parks, and bike paths provide endless opportunities for outdoor fun and a healthy lifestyle. The beach and pier offer a playground for all ages.

• Education: Santa Monica has a reputation for excellent schools, both public and private, ensuring a strong educational foundation for children.

• Community Events: The city frequently hosts family-friendly events and festivals, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.

• Safety and Health: Santa Monica is known for its focus on health and safety, making it a reassuring environment for raising children.

The combination of these factors makes Santa Monica not just a beautiful place to live, but a nurturing and vibrant community for families.

Is Santa Monica Expensive to Live?

Yes, Santa Monica is considered one of the more expensive areas to live in Los Angeles. Its combination of beachfront beauty, high quality of life, and desirable amenities contribute to its higher living costs.

• Housing Costs: The cost of housing in Santa Monica is significantly higher than the national average. Both rent and real estate prices reflect the city’s popularity and its status as the best city to live in Los Angeles.

• Daily Expenses: Day-to-day expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, are also elevated compared to other regions, partly due to the city’s affluent nature and high demand.

• Entertainment and Dining: Dining out and entertainment can also be costly, given the city’s array of high-end restaurants and shops.

However, many residents find that the cost is offset by the quality of life, including excellent schools, beautiful beaches, and a strong sense of community.

Is Santa Monica a Safe Neighborhood?

Santa Monica is generally considered a safe neighborhood, especially in comparison to the broader Los Angeles area. It’s known for its proactive approach to community safety and well-maintained public spaces, contributing to its reputation as one of the nicest parts of Los Angeles.

• Community Policing: The Santa Monica Police Department is actively involved in community policing, fostering a safe environment through regular patrols and community engagement.

• Public Safety Programs: The city has various public safety programs and initiatives aimed at reducing crime and enhancing the well-being of residents.

• Well-Lit and Maintained Areas: Public areas, including parks and beaches, are well-lit and regularly maintained, adding to the overall sense of safety.

• Active Community: The community’s involvement in neighborhood watch programs and local events further promotes a safe and connected environment.

While no area is free from crime, Santa Monica’s efforts in public safety and community involvement make it a relatively safe and secure place to live and visit.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Live in Los Angeles for Families

Los Angeles, a city of dreams and endless sunshine, offers a tapestry of living experiences, each as unique as its diverse neighborhoods. From the serene, family-friendly streets of Sherman Oaks to the beachside charm of Santa Monica, LA presents a world where every preference and lifestyle finds its match. It stands as a testament to the best places to live in Los Angeles, showcasing diversity in its truest form.

For those seeking an urban vibe infused with art and culture, areas like Silver Lake and Culver City beckon with their creative spirit and lively community feel. They demonstrate that Los Angeles is not just a city, but a mosaic of cultures and experiences. On the other hand, for those craving luxury and exclusivity, Beverly Hills and Irvine offer a slice of the high life, complete with all the amenities one could desire.

Happiness and quality of life are paramount in LA’s neighborhoods. Places like Venice and Los Feliz resonate with vibrancy and a sense of belonging, balancing urban excitement with community warmth.

So, where is the best place for a family to live or the ideal spot for young professionals in Los Angeles? The answer is as varied as the city’s landscape. Whether drawn to its bustling streets or tranquil suburbs, Los Angeles offers a place for everyone. It’s not just a location; it’s a diverse, dynamic way of life waiting to be embraced.