The City of Los Angeles is considered a global city because of the important role it plays in world economy. The seat of Los Angeles County, it’s home to some of the top corporations in the world and is the largest manufacturing center in the west coast. It is also a global recreational and entertainment hub, visited by millions of tourists every year.
Los Angeles spans 466 square miles, encompassing an expansive coastal plain that stretches from the San Gabriel Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. It is the second most populous city in the United States, with a population of around 4 million representing a highly-diverse range of ethnicity and cultures.
History
Two of the earliest Spanish missions in California, the San Gabriel and San Fernando, were established in the Los Angeles area in the late 1700s. The name Los Angeles was shortened from El Pueblo de la Reine de los Angeles, a settlement established by California Governor Felipe de Neve in 1782.
When the Mexicans took over the government of California, the status of Los Angeles was changed from a “pueblo” to a city. Los Angeles officially became an American city when California was admitted as a state in 1850.
Los Angeles was largely agricultural until the early 1900s, when the ranchos that dominated the city were plagued by drought and other natural disasters. The city’s journey to urbanization began with the construction of railroads that connected it to major destinations like San Francisco and Chicago. A multitude of new residents soon came to Los Angeles, attracted by its warmer and healthier climate.
Real Estate and Property Types
Homes in LA are as diverse as its population. The city has some of the most luxurious neighborhoods in the world, including Beverly Hills, Bel-Air, and Hollywood Hills.
On the other hand, you can also find some great bargains, ranging from older homes built in the mid-20th century to new construction. While a number of older homes are fixer-uppers, there’s a quite a few that have been excellently maintained and updated over the years. Some of the new residential developments in the city also feature relatively affordable properties.
About 64% of residents are renters. There’s a plethora of condos, townhomes, and apartment buildings to accommodate the continuous influx of new residents. These multifamily properties come in a wide range of prices and sizes, catering to everyone from luxury buyers to those seeking something more affordable.
Living in Los Angeles
You’ll find some of the best shopping centers, restaurants, bars, and clubs in the world right here in Los Angeles.
The city is a global cultural mecca, as well. Home to Hollywood, the movie-making capital of the world, LA is also rich in museums, performing arts venues, art galleries, and more.
The star-studded Hollywood Hills and Beverly Hills are no doubt the city’s most famous neighborhoods. But there’s also a host of other trend-setting and historic communities, including Venice Beach, Brentwood, South Park, and Sawtelle Japantown.
LA’s urban sprawl obscures its many trails, parks, and gardens. Some of the top nature destinations here include Runyon Canyon, Franklin Canyon Park, Will Rogers State Park, and Griffith Park. The popular beaches of Southern California are also just minutes away.
LA is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District – the largest school district in the US. Higher education is available at the community college, Los Angeles City College. LA is also home to the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles, as well as a number of other reputable institutions.
Dreaming of living in LA? Find the perfect home with 3 Leaf Realty
Work only with local experts in finding your LA home. Call 310-546-6300 today or email [email protected].
Sorry we are experiencing system issues. Please try again.