Living in West LA Near UCLA and SMC: What Renters Should Know

Are you moving to Los Angeles to attend UCLA or SMC? West Los Angeles could be just what's necessary. From beach days and sunshine, walkable coffee shops, California charm, and California vibes — what more could a student want in an ideal living environment!

But before diving in and searching for rentals, let's first discuss what life as a renter really entails: its costs, commute realities, and neighborhood pros/cons, as well as where students and young professionals tend to settle down.

West LA: An Overview of its Neighborhood Snapshot

"West LA" doesn't just refer to one zip code or one vibe. It encompasses an expanse of Los Angeles stretching roughly from Westwood and Brentwood in the east to Santa Monica on the coast, offering everything from college-town energy near UCLA to tranquil streets closer to the Santa Monica beachfront. Within these borders, you will discover everything from college town energy near UCLA to quiet streets closer to its shores — you won't know which way you turn.

Some areas are almost synonymous with student life — like Westwood Village. While, like Sawtelle, Palms, and Brentwood are more mixed-use environments. Santa Monica College (SMC) is located approximately 15-20 minutes west of UCLA via car or bus. Many SMC students choose the West LA and Monica neighborhoods, which offer convenient bus and bike routes for an easier commute. (Source)

Rent Reality: What Should Your Monthly Bill Look Like

Budgeting is key. Los Angeles rents have long been high, while those near major schools like UCLA or SMC tend to be on the more expensive end.

Santa Monica, where SMC is located, sees average monthly rents well in excess of $3,600/month for many units rented, with many renting for over $3,000/month. This is considerably higher than the national average and reflects both its coastal location and desirability.

West LA (areas south of Westwood and near Santa Monica Blvd) boasts a wider array of prices than South LA does, from older apartments on Santa Monica and Olympic Boulevards to co-living spaces marketed towards students and young professionals. Students searching student housing sites will discover an assortment of units ranging in cost from studios and smaller units starting around $1,300-$1,500 per month up to larger or newer properties exceeding $2,500+ in rent per month. (Source)

As a student living with roommates, sharing a two- or three-bed apartment may bring down your per-person rent. Whereas renting an individual room will likely attract an added premium compared to places further inland or south. Be mindful that utilities and parking may also be charged separately when making decisions.

Travel to UCLA or SMC from West LA

West LA's primary advantage is its location: many parts of Westwood and its environs can be reached on foot or by bike from UCLA. Buses run regularly along Van Nuys, Santa Monica, and Wilshire boulevards as well as other key corridors.

From West LA to Santa Monica College is a longer commute. However, if you choose a place near great transit routes. SMC students often opt for neighborhoods that allow them to bike or bus there in 10-20 minutes. Sunset Park and Ocean Park in Santa Monica itself are popular examples.

Southern California traffic can make traveling even short distances more time-consuming during rush hours. Thus making living near Big Blue Bus lines or UCLA shuttle stops even more advantageous and making life much simpler for students without cars.

Neighborhood Breakdown for Students and Young Professionals

Westwood

The proximity of UCLA makes Westwood Village one of its greatest advantages. You can walk to class, grab coffee with classmates, and feel part of campus life without actually living there!

Warn students that rents at Westwood Village apartments tend to be higher than in neighboring locations in West LA for student-centric sites. Especially newly or recently renovated units that command premium pricing compared to similar places a few blocks further out.

Sawtelle

Just west of Westwood, offers food lovers and renters alike an exciting atmosphere with relatively more rental options that still feel close to UCLA and Westside campuses. Many students appreciate its walkability and lively yet low-key vibe (think ramen shops and cafes!). Students often cite it as the place where their experience was most enriching without feeling overwhelming or intimidating.

Palms and Mar Vista

These neighborhoods strike a balance between budget and convenience. Residential areas, but still convenient access to buses that run between UCLA and Santa Monica, are one of the main drawcards here. Older units often mean lower rents with more space, and are perfect for roommates or students on a tight budget.

Brentwood

It offers a more relaxed and suburban ambience, featuring quieter streets and plenty of green spaces. Many older buildings here can be surprisingly affordable compared to Westwood. However, fewer units are available, and commute times to both campuses may take slightly longer.

Santa Monica Neighborhoods Near SMC

Students attending Santa Monica College often choose Sunset Park and Ocean Park. These neighborhoods are walkable and provide bike access directly to campus, as well as being more cost-effective than beachfront downtown Santa Monica areas.

Pros of Renting in West LA

1. Convenient Location

Living in West LA places you within reach of both educational and lifestyle attractions — including world-class dining options, entertainment venues, beaches, and cultural hubs.

2. Transit Solutions

Between the Big Blue Bus, UCLA shuttles, Metro connections, and walkable bike lanes, there are plenty of transit options for getting around if driving isn't an option for you.

3. Variety of Vibes

In Los Angeles, residents can choose a lively student hub (Westwood), a trendy cultural district (Sawtelle), or the peaceful residential vibes (Brentwood or Palms) they prefer — something rarely available elsewhere in large cities.

4. Strength of Rental Inventory

West LA boasts hundreds of student-friendly apartments and coliving options, which Tripalink lists alongside more mainstream apartment listings.

Cons of Renting in West LA

1. High Rent

West LA rental markets tend to be among the more costly in the country, particularly near UCLA or Santa Monica.

2. Competition for Good Places

Excellent deals and well-kept units may sell quickly during August and September. The peak move-in season, as many of the best ones may already have been snapped up quickly.

3. Traffic and Commuting

West Los Angeles boasts exceptional transit access, but traffic in West LA can often be unpredictable. Even short journeys may take longer during rush hour than expected.

FAQs

1. Is West LA a good place to live near UCLA and Santa Monica College?

In general, yes. Its proximity to both institutions makes for easy commutes via transit access, while offering varied neighborhood atmospheres at higher costs than more inland regions.

2. What is it really like living in West LA as a renter?

Expect lively streets, great transportation links, and rental costs reflective of its desirability. Many students share apartments or opt for older buildings to reduce rental costs.

3. What are the pros and cons of renting in West LA?

Renting in West LA provides convenience, transit, and lifestyle amenities. However, rent prices and housing turnover rates tend to be high.