Westwood, CA Pros and Cons

Do you sometimes imagine what it would be like to live in an area with palm trees swaying in the breeze amidst a lively university atmosphere? Westwood, in Los Angeles, might be a great fit. The neighborhood has a convenient location near UCLA. A busy place, the area features trendy cafes, a vibrant nightlife scene, and Bruins fans everywhere in their blue and gold colors.

But there are other things to consider before packing up and daydreaming about pizza and dorm rooms (or stylish apartments nearby for non-students). This guide will discuss whether you should move to Westwood, and the pros and cons to consider. Feel free to reach out if you're interested in buying a home in Westwood or another area around Southern California. Our real estate experts are ready to assist you find a special place to call home.

Pros and cons summary table:

Pros of Living in Westwood

Walkability and Convenience

Being able to get around on foot is more than a saying in Westwood, it's a key part of the lifestyle. With a high Walk Score of 92 out of 100, Westwood is one of LA's most walkable areas—a paradise for joggers. Residents don't have to go far for different things to do. Entertainment venues, dining establishments, and modern conveniences are only moments away.

And if you prefer home-type cooking, there are plenty of grocery options in Westwood. Restock your pantry at cozy marketplaces such as Bristol Farms and Whole Foods, which coexist with neighborhood treasures like Trader Joe's and Sprouts. Besides the usual chain restaurants, foodies appreciate the variety of eateries serving every kind of dish.

Furthermore, retail therapy in Westwood is a breeze when you factor in neighboring malls such as The Grove and Westfield Century City. Westwood's proximity to UCLA, a center of academic and cultural activity, puts the icing on the cake in regards to walkability. Besides students, families are often sighted exploring the shops and restaurants around Westwood Village. So, whether you have a parking-phobia or you're car-free, Westwood has you covered.

Proximity to UCLA

Being close to UCLA changes everything for Westwood students. Imagine having a stress-free commute to school, easy access to study areas and libraries on campus, and a calendar full of student-only activities at your fingertips. Situated near the student gym, clubs, and entertainment, the area is a peaceful intellectual oasis. Home to professionals, families, and students, Westwood is a diverse community thanks to its proximity to UCLA.

However, there are legitimate concerns this diversity may give rise to safety issues. Based on the rates of violence and property crime, the neighborhood scores a B-Minus for crime and safety. Here's the thing though; Westwood is renowned for being friendly and safe despite its diversity. As a neighborhood that embraces people from all different walks of life, it feels like a welcoming oasis for anyone seeking a calm, secure community to call home.

Vibrant College Town Vibe

With almost 40,000 students living in the area, Westwood's energy is youthful. The community knows how to party, with a median age of 26. But it also knows how to foster lifelong study and exploration. Get your fix of art and culture without ever leaving Westwood. Explore the nearby museums such as the famous Hammer Museum and Fowler Museum. Theater buffs can also take in fascinating performances at the local theaters.

Take in a play at UCLA's Gunther Theatre or enjoy screenings at the renowned Aero Theatre. As the sun sets, Westwood's nightlife comes to life with hip cafes, student-friendly bars, and entertainment venues to suit every taste and budget. The energetic vibe of this college town makes it the perfect place to have a stimulating discussion. You can let loose on the dance floor or unwind after a demanding day.

Public Transportation in Westwood

Living in Westwood, California, sounds like a dream for many who commute daily. The Los Angeles Metro and Big Blue Bus of Santa Monica provide a network of bus routes in the neighborhood. Getting to your destination is a breeze given the buses traverse the area. Besides buses, a light rail system - Metro Expo Line - dissects Westwood, allowing access to Downtown LA, Santa Monica, and the outlying areas.

Are you thinking beyond Westwood boundaries? Get to the Santa Monica Pier in under an hour via the Expo Line. Do you need to head downtown sometimes for your job or to go out at night? Get there in a flash via rail. There's no battling traffic, no costly parking—only stress-free, hassle-free commutes.

And you know what? Westwood's convenient location is yet another benefit. If you have a car and wish to make longer trips, you won't be stuck navigating a maze of city streets as major roads are easy to access. Bonus Fun Fact: Did you know UCLA offers BruinBus, a free transit service? Getting to class is a breeze as the bus makes scheduled stops around the campus.

Scenic Beauty and Environment

Westwood is known for its urban comforts, but its natural appeal also draws in many residents. There's a sense of calm in the middle of everything thanks to the trees that line the quiet streets. There's no shortage of green spaces to play, with a massive 1,000 acres of parkland encircling the community.

Escape into Nature

Do you enjoy spending time in nature, admiring all the flora and fauna? The beautiful Bel Air Ridge Trail is a must-visit for its towering oak trees and lush greenery. Take in panoramic views of the city and peaceful wooded scenery. Or go hiking on the multi-use path that stretches over 2.5 kilometers. What's more, the sycamores in nearby Barrington Park offer a popular spot for weekend picnics. Here, families converge to play sports, fly kites, or take in the beauty of nearby gardens.

Staying Active

If recreation and exercise are important to you, the primary hub for activity for the community is the Westwood Recreation Center. Olympic-sized pools, tennis courts, and an equipped gym are all available at the center. You'll also catch a glimpse of cyclists exercising around the clean, segregated bike tracks encircling the business district. Miles of trails ideal for jogging or strolls amid the campus's historic buildings are also available in nearby UCLA.

Beach Days Made Easy

On warmer days, visit the Santa Monica beaches, which are only a 15-minute drive west. The ideal way to unwind after a demanding workweek is to go wave-watching after sunset. What to do when inspiration strikes? Nearby LA attractions such as Century City and Beverley Hills provide quick access to gorgeous landscapes. Along with its convenience, Westwood's natural environs make it the perfect location for those who prefer the outdoors and natural beauty.

Cons of Living in Westwood

High Living Costs

Compared to other areas of Los Angeles, Westwood has a reputation for having higher rental costs and apartment prices in general. Based on recent data, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Westwood is around $3,200. Rents here are much higher than the $2,800 average for Los Angeles.

Meanwhile, the median home value for homebuyers is over $1.3 million. To make ends meet, financially strapped students may need roommates. Families seeking spacious housing may also have difficulty locating affordable options.

Dining and Entertainment Costs

The affordable restaurants in Westwood are few and far between. At a casual cafe, a meal (without drinks) costs $20 per person. Upscale restaurants may charge $30 to $50 per entree, and many of the very best are much more exclusive. Not to mention expensive minimums and delivery costs from services like DoorDash and UberEats. Though you can dine at less costly restaurants outside of Westwood, the drive-out negates the neighborhood's excellent walkability.

Home Listings Lack in Variety

When exploring Westwood real estate listings, you may notice a noticeable preference for apartments and condos over single-family homes. The dense urban nature of Westwood is ideal for students and young professional life. However, it's a contributing factor to the current imbalanced housing stock. A more contemporary, high-rise apartment-dominant vibe permeates Westwood. The reason is that the area lacks the charming older homes common in many other LA neighborhoods.

Noise and Crowds

Westwood's ambiance is heavily influenced by student activity given its proximity to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). There's a lively atmosphere in the air, from social gatherings to events and the general hustle of student life. During peak hours, there can be a lot of foot traffic on the streets of Westwood, particularly those surrounding UCLA. So, if you value calm and quiet environments, you should think twice before moving to Westwood.

Traffic Congestion

Most of Los Angeles' neighborhoods including Westwood, are accustomed to constant traffic. During rush hour, surface streets can become congested and cause freeways to back up. It only takes a moment for a quick errand in town to become an adventure.

To add on, parking in Westwood may be another entirely different experience. For example, street parking is limited and often subject to permit or time constraints. Such permits may increase the cost of living in Westwood even further. Although living in Westwood may imply a slight reduction in driving, it does not guarantee completely escaping LA traffic.

Challenges for Career Advancement

A significant part of Westwood's workforce is dedicated to serving the university and its student body. Thus, many occupations in the neighborhood are in the retail, restaurant, and service industries. These can be excellent choices, particularly for people looking for flexible hours or who are students.

Despite this, Westwood might not be the best place for you to pursue a career in a specific field or to go up the corporate ladder. Although startups have created some jobs in the media and technology sector, overall alternatives are not as promising as in bigger hubs. As a result, many residents travel from Westwood to Downtown LA and other areas for corporate jobs.

Is Westwood Right for You? Weighing the Pros and Cons

After exploring all the possibilities, it's time to decide if Westwood is the right place for you. Let's recap the main pros and cons. The pros include excellent walkability, amenities, rich culture, and UCLA's excitement and youthful exuberance. All that convenience, though, comes at a price. Expect exorbitant housing costs, limited housing options, congestion, and a skewed job market.

In the end, Westwood is a better fit for some people than others. If you're a young professional eager to immerse yourself in a bustling scene, or a student desiring a campus community, the tradeoffs are probably worth it. After weighing the pros and cons, is living in Westwood right for you? Feel free to contact us if you need further encouragement to help you decide.