Santa Monica, CA


24 Reviews



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Santa Monica, CA

About Santa Monica, CA

Santa Monica, California is a vibrant beach city located in Los Angeles County. This popular destination offers something for everyone, from world-class shopping and dining to outdoor activities like surfing and biking along the beachside path. Cultural attractions like the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium and the nearby Getty Villa make it easy to explore the area's history and art. Nightlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the countless bars, nightclubs, and lounges scattered throughout town. With its many attractions and activities, Santa Monica is sure to make your vacation unforgettable! National-center complex - Southern California Coast, south and west of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Location Details

Zip Codes: 90405 90403 90404 90402 90401
Cost of Living: 61.7% higher
Time zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Elevation: 104 ft above sea level
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Dig Deeper on Santa Monica

Los Angeles, California, is a city with a deep and diverse history. It was founded in 1781 by Spanish governor Felipe de Neve and originally named "El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles." Over the centuries, it transformed from a small settlement to one of the largest and most well-known cities in the world. Los Angeles is famous for its film and entertainment industry, earning it the nickname "The Entertainment Capital of the World."

The geography of Los Angeles is unique, with mountains, beaches, and valleys all within a short drive. The city itself is sprawling, covering approximately 469 square miles. It's known for its Mediterranean climate, offering residents sunny days most of the year, mild winters, and warm summers. This weather allows for a variety of outdoor activities, from surfing at Venice Beach to hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Economically, Los Angeles is a powerhouse. Besides entertainment, it has a diverse economy with strong sectors in technology, fashion, aerospace, and international trade. The Port of Los Angeles is one of the busiest ports in the world, playing a crucial role in global trade. The city also has a vibrant startup scene, with many tech companies choosing Los Angeles as their home.

When it comes to voting patterns, Los Angeles and the broader Los Angeles County are known for leaning towards the Democratic Party. This reflects the diverse population and the variety of views and lifestyles within the city. Local elections and issues can often draw significant attention and participation from the community.

Living in Los Angeles offers a dynamic experience. The city is a melting pot of cultures, leading to a wide array of food, music, and festivals. Residents can enjoy cuisine from all over the world, visit museums like the Getty Center, or attend live shows and concerts. However, newcomers should be aware that traffic congestion is a significant issue, and public transportation options, while improving, may not cover all areas extensively.

New residents should know that the cost of living in Los Angeles is higher than in many other parts of the United States, particularly when it comes to housing. Researching neighborhoods and planning for commuting times can help in making a successful transition. Additionally, embracing the diverse culture and exploring different parts of the city can lead to discovering hidden gems and building a connection to the community.

In summary, Los Angeles, CA, is a city with a rich history, diverse geography, and a dynamic economy. It's a place where the entertainment industry meets technology, fashion, and more. The city's political landscape is predominantly Democratic, reflecting its diverse populace. Life in Los Angeles is full of opportunities to explore cultures, cuisines, and outdoor activities, but new residents should be prepared for higher living costs and traffic. Understanding and embracing the unique aspects of Los Angeles can make living in the city a truly rewarding experience.

Santa Monica Cost of Living
$$$$

Entertainment, coastline and beach areas, and big-city amenities make Santa Monica a great place to live.

$1,656,900
+79.6% higher than avg
$99,847
+30.9% higher than avg
$2,406 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
+52.3% higher than avg
Santa Monica Crime
56.9 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Santa Monica, California
$317,520
for a family
$88,400
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Santa Monica
   Entertainment
Overcrowding
   Coastline and beach areas
Air quality
   Big-city amenities
Cost of living
Reviews for Santa Monica
    See all (24)

I moved here to Santa Monica over 10 years ago from Oklahoma City. I was surprised to see that Oklahoma City was ranked higher than Santa Monica on best places. I  More

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I've lived in Santa Monica for over 30 years. It's a Mediterranean climate--sunny and temperate when the rest of the country is under snow! I am walking distance to  More

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I have lived in this city for 4 decades, and it is never been worse than it is now. It is a dangerous disgusting hell hole. Between the crime, the homeless that are not  More

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