How to Find the Best Santa Monica Neighborhood

Santa Monica's coastal location makes it a desirable place to live, work and play. Here are some of the best Santa Monica neighborhoods.

Downtown Santa Monica Downtown Santa Monica offers a walkable neighborhood with a pedestrian mall esplanade, live entertainment, shopping, and dining. It's also just steps from the Pacific Ocean for a stunning backdrop.

Mid-City Mid-City is bordered by Wilshire and Olympic boulevards and two Expo Line stations for better accessibility. This neighborhood is known for arts and entertainment offerings, galleries, and stage shows. You're also never far from fabulous dining, pubs, and shopping.

Ocean Park Live along the beach at Ocean Park with fellow surfers and volleyball players. A beachside path attracts joggers and bikers. Modern apartments and historic Craftsman bungalows dot the waterfront landscape.

Pico Boulevard Live in the middle of the action at Pico Boulevard, which connects Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles. The neighborhood is diverse, with galleries, live music, and locals from all walks of life. Weekends draw crowds to the Santa Monica farmers market and shopping centers. It's also an ideal neighborhood for local Santa Monica College students and staff looking for a lively atmosphere.

Wilshire-Montana Wilshire-Montana boasts yoga studios, fitness clubs, and outdoor recreation. You'll find a coffee shop or eatery on every corner. Art events, bookstores, and live entertainment are popular in this eclectic neighborhood.

North of Montana North of Montana offers a more residential feel with restaurants, shopping, and access to the rest of Santa Monica. It's a walkable neighborhood where locals jog and stroll to make the most of the community.

Sunset Park Sunset Park offers a similar vibe to Ocean Park. Its well-regarded schools attract families and young professionals looking to settle into beach town living.

How Much Are Apartments in Santa Monica?

Are you ready to make a move to Santa Monica? Before you start apartment hunting, learn about the local rental market in this coastal paradise.

Average Rent in Santa Monica

The average rent for a Santa Monica 1-bedroom apartment is $1,996 The average rent for a Santa Monica 2-bedroom apartment is $2,511 Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area rents increased by 2.7% compared to last month and are down by 3.8% compared to the same time since last year.

How to Find Cheap Apartments In Santa Monica

Santa Monica once offered a reasonable cost of living for a beach town. Prices have spiked in recent years, as the area has become more trendy. The LA metro area also experienced a population boom. It's still possible to find some deals if you have time to look and stay flexible with the month you move. Move-in specials can help lower your overall expenses. Some apartment complexes offer specials during December and January when rentals are usually less competitive.

You should also factor in all of your living expenses incurred beyond your rent. Follow a budgeting checklist for all of your apartment essentials like moving costs and utilities.

The farther you get from Downtown and LA’s most popular coastal neighborhoods, the cheaper your rent will likely be. If you're commuting into Los Angeles, you should also consider the cost of gas and wear and tear on your vehicle. Come prepared with these eight tips for finding a Santa Monica apartment you can afford