Los Angeles is a lively city in California, famous for its various cultures, popular landmarks, and hospitable environment. This city is rich in LGBTQ-friendly gayborhoods like West Hollywood and Silver Lake. It’s also home to well-known spots like Venice Beach, Sunset Boulevard, and Santa Monica Boulevard, which have been ingrained in American pop culture.
Los Angeles' lively LGBTQ scene is only second to San Francisco's, where many events, clubs, and organizations unite the community. To experience the ambiance of this world-renowned city, escape the downtown concrete jungle and head for the beaches of Santa Monica, Malibu, or Laguna.
Another reason that Los Angeles is so popular is because it’s close to many other big cities, making it a perfect place to launch your best vacations. Palm Springs, renowned as a gay retiree destination, is about 2 hours away if you’d like a quiet getaway. The Happiest Place on Earth, Disney Land, is no more than 1 hour away even in heavy traffic.
There are also closer options, such as San Diego, which is only about 2-3 hours away by car, or Orange County (Newport Beach and Huntington Beach), which can be reached in 40 minutes to 1-hour driving time from Pacific Coast Highway southbound.
It's no surprise that California is one of the most gay-friendly states. Whether you’re looking for a vacation getaway or a place to call home, Los Angeles has it all.
Los Angeles’ Many Queer Neighborhoods
Los Angeles County has long been a home for LGBTQ culture and life, offering a variety of vibrant, welcoming neighborhoods. These areas each have their unique history and attractions, interweaving the city’s queer culture and life.
From lively shopping malls, gay bars, and clubs to rich cultural histories, here's an overview of Los Angeles’ prominent gay-friendly neighborhoods and why it’s one of the happiest places in the country.
Silver Lake
Silver Lake has a colorful history. It has been home to the Pride community for years, and it was one of the first neighborhoods in the Los Angeles area to embrace the gay community. The location is known for its artsy feel and is full of different cultures and people. It is interesting because many historical sites are mixed with new hipster hangout spots.
Things to Do
Get entertained at Silver Lake Lounge or drink at Akbar, a well-known gay bar. Go for a scenic walk or bike ride around the Silver Lake Reservoir. When dining out, explore Café Stella or Pine & Crane for great-tasting local dishes.
West Hollywood
Also known as WeHo, West Hollywood is the focal point of LGBTQ culture in Los Angeles. It began as a sanctuary for gay people in the city during the 1970s and 1980s and turned into the epicenter of its gay community.
Known for its rainbow flags adorning Santa Monica Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood boasts a thriving nightlife with several gay bars and nightclubs.
Things to Do
At night, explore iconic venues such as The Abbey and Flaming Saddles. During the day, go to West Hollywood Park or walk down Sunset Strip to shop for the latest fashion and dine on the best food. Don’t forget about Pacific Design Center, a mecca for design and architecture enthusiasts alike. Tom Tom is a beloved staple of the food scene here, serving unique cocktails in an upscale setting.
Venice Beach
Venice is where bohemian culture meets the LGBTQ community because of its tolerant nature and vibrant beach boardwalk. It has earned its reputation as one the most gay-friendly cities in California, attracting gay people from all walks of life who come here to visit and live permanently.
Things to Do
Feel the Venice Boardwalk come alive with various performances and shops. Take a stroll around the Venice Canals. End your day at Roosterfish Bar, an LGBTQ hotspot every evening, or have dinner at Gjelina, known for its creative farm-to-table dishes.
Downtown LA (DTLA)
Downtown LA (DTLA) recently experienced a revival and became a more vibrant place among LGBTQ community centers. Living or visiting there can offer everything from history in architecture through modern skyscrapers in places like Sunset Boulevard to a thriving arts scene.
Some of the world’s most iconic hotels and buildings are housed here, such as the Chateau Marmont, The Hollywood Roosevelt, and the Beverly Wilshire – not to mention the priciest hotel of them all, the stunning Waldorf Astoria!
There are tons of resources available for LGBTQ locals. One example is Gender Justice on the east side, which advocates for the dignity of transgender, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming people of all races and backgrounds. The Los Angeles LGBT Center supports gay men and women through workshops, group meetings, and community events throughout the year, such as the Senior Prom Party for LGBTQ elders.
Things to Do
While in downtown Los Angeles, visit the Broad Museum and immerse yourself in art life by visiting or watching a show at Ahmanson Theatre. When it comes to nightlife, Precinct is worth going to as it’s one of the biggest gay clubs downtown. Also, DTLA provides various dining options, starting with high-end restaurants like Otium and ending with trendy food courts such as Grand Central Market.
Despite the entertainment industry’s country and worldwide recognition, Hollywood is famous for its many LGBTQ inhabitants. Stop by the historic Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre when you visit. It is a neighborhood full of life and vitality and an area with many iconic buildings and a rich history.
One beloved staple of downtown Los Angeles is Griffith Park, located in the Los Feliz neighborhood. This district is the home of the famous Hollywood sign, but there’s plenty more to do here, too. Head to the Los Angeles Zoo or explore the Autry Museum of the American West to better understand how this area went from the rugged land of outlaws to a ritzy home of the rich and famous.
Santa Monica
For the LGBTQ community, Santa Monica is a favored destination since it seamlessly blends seaside relaxation and urban sophistication. The spectacular views of the sea make it the perfect place for gay friendliness and tolerance, and it has a progressive attitude.
Things to Do
At the Santa Monica Pier, you can relax or take in some sun at Will Rogers State Beach, which has a section designated explicitly for gay people. The Third Street Promenade boasts a wide variety of shops and stores where one can shop till they drop.
The Bungalow is a pub that anyone visiting Santa Monica should not miss out on – it's got an easy-going attitude and offers ocean views.
Exploring Gay Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a vibrant city with a rich LGBTQ-friendly culture and numerous events, nightlife spots, bars, restaurants, and artistic venues. Whether you're exploring West Hollywood or the Silver Lake area, the city's diverse and multicultural population ensures something for everyone in this gay-friendly city.
Events and Nightlife
The city boasts a lively LGBTQ event calendar with something happening almost every week. The most notable is LA Pride, a massive celebration that attracts visitors (especially the younger crowd) worldwide. Held annually in June, the event features a parade, concerts, and parties that turn West Hollywood into a sea of rainbow flags.
Bars and Restaurants
You’re never far from an amazing restaurant or club while in this glorious city. After sunset, the gay clubs and gay bars define the tempo of the night!
Popular establishments include The Abbey, a West Hollywood bar that is said to be one of the best gay bars in the world. Mickey’s, also situated in West Hollywood, has a reputation for its lively atmosphere and drag shows. Akbar in Silver Lake offers a more laid-back setting where people can go and relax if they want somewhere less intense.
Gracias Madre serves tasty vegan Mexican dishes in an elegant indoor-outdoor setting on Santa Monica Boulevard, right near West Hollywood’s Border Grill location.
Casita del Campo serves traditional Mexican fare surrounded by colorful art pieces hung inside its walls. This joint is in Silverlake territory, not too far from Akbar if you’re looking for more than one stop on your food tour around town.
Arts and Culture
Los Angeles celebrates diversity, and its arts and culture scene reflects the vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Outfest, an annual film festival, showcases LGBTQ+ films from all over the world and is also culturally significant for the city.
The Broad Museum and The Getty Center often display pieces of art that explore queer identities and experiences. The renowned Sunset Strip in West Hollywood is home to two iconic live music venues - The Roxy Theatre and The Viper Room. These establishments hold great historical significance as they have been instrumental in hosting numerous concerts and performances tailored towards the LGBTQ+ community.
Moving to Los Angeles: What to Expect
Los Angeles, fondly known as the "City of Angels," is one of the biggest cities in America where dreams take flight and endless possibilities await. This sun-drenched city is a melting pot, embracing people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. However, before moving, it's essential to understand what makes this place unique.
Housing
The housing market is one of the most competitive in the country. According to Redfin, the median home price in Los Angeles is $1.04M as of early 2024. This marks a significant increase from previous years, reflecting the city's ongoing housing demand. Prices vary by neighborhood, with areas like Beverly Hills and Santa Monica commanding much higher prices than more suburban regions.
While it’s possible to secure a loan with as little as 3% down for a first-time buyer or 5% down with a conventional loan, homeowners should strive to provide 20% or more in order to eliminate mortgage insurance and secure the best rates. In Los Angeles, this would translate to around $208,000, which can be a daunting expense. Thankfully, Pride Lending will help you find local down payment assistance programs to make up the difference.
The Los Angeles Housing Department offers loans that will cover a portion of the down payment for first-time borrowers who make less than the area median income. The LACDA’s HOP80 and HOP120 Home Ownership Programs can also provide either $100,000 or 20% of the home’s purchase price, whichever is less, to first-time buyers who meet their income eligibility requirements.
In addition to these offerings, we’ll work with you to find national down payment assistance programs that meet your needs, as well as low-down-payment loan programs. With our support, you’ll find a home you can afford at a rate you’ll love.
Renting vs. Buying
Your financial position and long-term plans determine the choice between renting and buying. In an unpredictable market, renting provides freedom, while purchasing can be a wise decision because of the city’s appreciation rates.
Although the average monthly mortgage payment for a home at a median price is more expensive than rent, first time homebuyer assistance programs can still make it possible to afford your dream.
Environmental Risks
Prospective homebuyers should consider environmental risks. Wildfires, earthquakes, and droughts are significant concerns in Southern California. Researching and investing in appropriate insurance policies can mitigate these risks.
Weather
Los Angeles has a sunny and mild Mediterranean climate. The winters are wet but comfortable, with temperatures in the mid-50s°. The summers are hot and very dry (August being the hottest month), with an average high of 84°F and low of 66°F. LA gets more than 280 sunny days yearly, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Traffic
The City of Angels is famous for its heavy traffic. The city’s comprehensive system of freeways often has congested roads, especially during rush hour. According to INRIX Global Traffic Scorecard, Los Angeles is among the cities with the worst traffic jams in the world.
As a result, owning a car is almost essential unless you live close to work or public transit lines. The Metro system, including buses and trains, provides some relief, but many find it insufficient for daily commuting without a car.
Cost of Living
Living in LA is expensive. According to Numbeo’s Quality of Life Index, affordability is lower than most nearby cities. For example, the price of living in Los Angeles is higher than San Diego and Santa Monica but lower than San Francisco.
As of May 2024, rent in Los Angeles, CA, is an average of $2,105. This is 39% more than the national average of $1,517/month, making it among the most expensive cities to live in the USA.
If you’re looking for an apartment to rent in LA, it’s worth noting that studios will cost around $1664 per month, while one-bedroom ones will cost roughly $2,105. Two-bedroom apartments cost approximately $2,913 each month. If you opt for three bedrooms, be ready to part with more than $4,187. Grocery expenses and utilities also exceed national averages.
Work-Life
Los Angeles, a central economic hub, provides many job options. The top employers are the entertainment industry, technology companies, healthcare facilities, and schools. Some notable employers are UCLA, Disney, and Kaiser Permanente. The average income in LA is around $75,831 annually, but it depends on the industry and job position.
Ready To Move to LA?
While it’s not for everyone, many people love the LA lifestyle. If you are considering moving to or investing in LA real estate, we are here to help you find the best mortgage options for your purchase.
Pride Lending is committed to helping borrowers from all backgrounds achieve their goals, whether that’s settling in south of Venice Beach or further west in the Hollywood hills. Our team is comprised of allies and members of marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals, who combine real-world experience with mortgage expertise. We’re here to assist all our clients, no matter their age, sexuality, race, gender, or other identity.
We offer a variety of financing options, including FHA loans, VA loans, conventional mortgages, and investment loans. You’ll work with a skilled loan officer who will take the time to learn about your needs and find the best options, including DPA programs.
Get in touch today at 725-231-0192 or by email to learn more about our loan programs.
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