Expat Guide to Living in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of the world's great cities for international residents — a place where over 200 languages are spoken and where the combination of career opportunities in entertainment, tech, and creative industries, excellent weather, and access to outstanding outdoor recreation makes it deeply appealing to ambitious people from around the world. The primary expat considerations are the cost of housing (among the highest in North America), the car-dependent transport culture (a car is essentially mandatory), and the considerable sprawl that means where you live significantly shapes your daily experience. Silver Lake, Los Feliz, and Silverlake are the creative hubs; Santa Monica and Venice for beach lifestyle; and the Westside for industry and finance.