"California here I come" - Al Jolson in "Bombo"
If you are headed out west to become an Angeleno, take a gander at Walnut Park. This neighborhood of Los Angeles is tucked into the southeast corner of the city. The spicy, lively lifestyle may be just what you're looking for with its authentic Central American restaurants and shopping. Mariachis fill the air on festive holidays and it's open season if you're looking for a rental area in this part of the city. Of the rather small number of residents, most live in rental apartments in Walnut Park.
Many rental homes in Walnut Park don't have garages for cars, so be aware that you may have to park on the street
"California here I come" - Al Jolson in "Bombo"
If you are headed out west to become an Angeleno, take a gander at Walnut Park. This neighborhood of Los Angeles is tucked into the southeast corner of the city. The spicy, lively lifestyle may be just what you're looking for with its authentic Central American restaurants and shopping. Mariachis fill the air on festive holidays and it's open season if you're looking for a rental area in this part of the city. Of the rather small number of residents, most live in rental apartments in Walnut Park.
Many rental homes in Walnut Park don't have garages for cars, so be aware that you may have to park on the street. Some public spaces, such as schools and other businesses open up their parking lots for residents to park their cars in at night. You won't find many condos for rent, but you also won't find the high HOA fees here, either.
Start Looking
Start checking out the area about four to six weeks in advance. Things do change here, so you may be able to find the place you want to rent in less time, but don't count on it or you may be spending more time at the mall than you expected.
What You'll Need
Pretty basic stuff: bring your credit report, proof of income, rental history and references. That's usually enough to get you started. You'll probably need cash in the form of a cashier's or bank check for first and last month's rent and a security deposit. An apartments locator agent may be your best bet to find the home you want, since they keep a watchful eye on rentals in the community.
Because it's a little under one square mile, it's easy to get around here. You won't even have to leave the neighborhood for grocery stores (popular Fresh and Easy Market is right in town) or many professional services. La Alameda Mall features both national chains and local shopping and dining. If you do want to venture out, Walnut Park is very close to accessible nightlife activities, and more dining and shopping is just a short distance away, too. Keep in mind that studio and one-bedroom rental homes in Walnut Park are less expensive than in other areas of the City of Angels. If you want to practice your Spanish, you're going to love meeting the friendly neighbors you'll have here.
Cost of Living
Rents here are lower than some of the surrounding LA neighborhoods. Specifically, look around the area of South Alameda and Florence Streets. Using the bus and living close to the conveniences you need will save you money. Walnut Park's Walkability Score of 71 will get you to the mall and back during the day while you enjoy the fresh air and exercise. Gas prices in LA are pretty high compared to the rest of the country so you'll want to save your pennies where you can.
Getting Around
Remember that this is Los Angeles. You will probably need a car to get to some of the places you want to go. The good thing is that everything is close -- museums, theaters, concert venues. The not-so-good thing is traffic, but once you become attuned to it, you'll know when to travel the freeways and when to avoid them. Public transportation has gotten a little better, but the car is still king.
