Moving to the City of Angels
Moving from the Windy City to the City of Angels comes with its challenges and perks. This is the city that defines the West Coast.
Its climate consists mainly of warm days all year-round, with cool nights, and occasional rain. Forget Chicago’s cold and snowy winters.
With around 4 million people, LA is the second-most populous city in the US. It is also (in)famous for the worst traffic jams in the nation, and arguably in the world.
Economy and employment
The entertainment industry, technology, aerospace, tourism, international trade, law, fashion, finance, healthcare, telecommunications, and transportation are some of the key industries that keep LA’s economy running strong. As the largest manufacturing center in the United States, LA also offers a great number of job vacancies in this area. But don’t limit yourself to these top industries only. LA has much more to offer and is the perfect place to thrive as an entrepreneur.
According to various sources, Los Angeles is on track to becoming on the world’s leading financial hubs, on par with New York City, London, and Hong Kong. It is home to big names like Paramount Pictures and 20th Century Fox, as well as six Fortune 500 companies.
Housing and Living Costs
No matter where you relocate, you still need to pick a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle. That is why, before you decide to rent or buy a house in LA, get to know its neighborhoods first. Among the best areas are Atwater Village, Beverly Grove, Beverly Hills, Burbank, Culver City, Downtown, Eagle Rock, Echo Park, Westwood, Beverlywood, Cheviot Hills, and Carthay.
In general, living in Los Angeles is more expensive than in Chicago. Investing in a home would also prove a costly endeavor. In East Los Angeles, for example, the price can be up to 94% more expensive than in Chicago.
Things to see and do in LA
Once in Los Angeles, you will soon adjust to the great weather that allows its inhabitants to do much more outdoor activities than in Chicago. Enjoy the rich and diverse culture, cuisine, and people whenever you have a chance. Disneyland, Runyon Canyon Park, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, Hollywood sign, Museum of Art, Dolby Theatre, Griffith Park, and Madame Tussauds Hollywood are just a few places you need to visit as soon as you can.
Go camping, cycling, rock climbing, backpacking, hiking, surfing, or take a stroll down the city. And if you also have a dog, you’re in luck. LA is a great city for dogs, so you will have plenty of opportunities to get to know the city and walk your furry friend at the same time.
Moving to Los Angeles with a car
Once you relocate to Los Angeles, you will have 20 days to register your car and 10 days to apply for a California driver’s license. As the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has very strict rules for all newcomers, we highly recommend you to read carefully all the requirements for state car registration, driver’s license, title transfer, and more. You will also need valid car insurance in order to register your car.