Inside LA’s Movie-Making Hub: What It’s Like to Live Here

Most people hear “the Valley” and picture strip malls, chain restaurants, and a suburban wasteland where people go to escape real city life. That could not be further from the truth. Living here means being surrounded by LA’s movie making heart, from Universal Studios to legendary filming locations scattered across its neighborhoods. The Valley may be slower paced than Hollywood or Downtown, but it is packed with hidden gems, unbeatable food, and a culture all its own. If you think this place is just an afterthought, you are missing out on one of LA’s most underrated areas. Here is what life in the Valley is really like.

Table Of Contents

What Is The Valley In California?

No, we’re not talking about Silicon Valley up in San Francisco, but yes, this is the area where the mythical “Valley Girl” comes from.

Also known as San Fernando Valley, this region of LA was given the nickname “The Valley” by locals simply as a shortened version for reference.

The Valley region is located northwest of LA (above the Los Angeles Basin area) and is mostly surrounded by mountains.

It’s home to many cities and neighborhoods, some famous and some not so much. Here is a list of some of these areas:

Burbank
Reseda
Calabasas
Sherman Oaks
Crescenta Valley
Granada Hills
La Tuna Canyon
Canoga Park
Universal City
Porter Ranch
Hidden Hills
North Hills
Panorama City
Encino
Van Nuys
Studio City
Toluca Lake
Warner Center
Ventura Business District

In general, the Valley region is known for having amazing sunny weather, a very diverse population, and a laid-back lifestyle that is much more relaxed compared to the rest of Los Angeles.

In fact, many San Fernando Valley residents moved to this region specifically to get away from the hectic lifestyle that the rest of the Los Angeles area tends to be associated with.

It’s also home to many Southern California famous attractions as mentioned earlier, such as Universal Studios and the Getty Center.

✅ Pros Of Living In The Valley

aerial view of a road in the valley california

👍 Cost of Living

One of the biggest advantages of living in the Valley is easily the lower cost of living you’re able to enjoy, especially compared to other parts of Los Angeles.

Let’s face it: the cost of living in LA is notoriously expensive (actually California in general is $$$) no matter what area you’re in, so any cut in living expenses is always welcome here.

Housing and rental prices tend to be more affordable, which makes it an attractive option for many people.

According to Best Places, the San Fernando Valley area is roughly 16.3% cheaper compared to the rest of Greater Los Angeles.

👍 More Relaxed Lifestyle

Since the Valley is more north than many LA folks like to travel, it’s also known for having a more relaxed and laid-back lifestyle than many other areas of Los Angeles.

The pace of life is slower, and there are less traffic and rush hours, which makes it much easier to get around whether you’re headed to work, for a quick bite, or just exploring the area.

Don’t get me wrong, traffic can still be bad here and it isn’t always relaxed everywhere you go in the Valley.

However, it does tend to be more relaxed compared to the busier areas of LA. Especially if you live in a less populated area in the Valley (like Sherman Oaks or Reseda), you’ll be able to get around with little concern for traffic jams.

👍 Parking is Much Easier

Los Angeles is notoriously terrible when it comes to finding parking. If you park on the side of the street, the meter quickly runs out and you risk a parking ticket.

If you throw your hands up and decide to park in a parking deck, you can expect to pay a pretty penny.

The San Fernando Valley area is much more affordable and less hectic when it comes to finding parking.

Sure, you’ll still have to pay for parking at many places you might visit, but you’re much more likely to find free parking in the Valley.

You also don’t have to fight for a parking spot as you would in other areas like, say, Santa Monica.

👍 Diverse Population

The Valley is also home to a very diverse population, just as you’d expect with the rest of LA. This also adds to the beauty of the Valley and makes it a great and desirable place to live for those who really prioritize cultural diversity and the opportunity to learn from different communities.

❌ Cons Of Living In The Valley

👎 Summers Can Be (Very) Hot

While there are many advantages to living in the Valley, there are also some downsides you should keep in mind. With that being said, one of the biggest cons you’ll run into is the heat.

When people think of Los Angeles they imagine the famously perfect weather it’s known for, complete with 80-degree temperatures and a soft cool breeze that completes the mood. But San Fernando Valley is a bit of a different story.

Sure, San Fernando Valley has that great Los Angeles weather during the spring, fall, and sometimes even winter. Snow is very very rare in Los Angeles.

But during the summer months, it can get HOT. In fact, temperatures can reach well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which can be uncomfortable for some people.

It doesn’t always get this hot, but it has been climbing up slowly but surely over the past several years due to global warming and climate change.

👎 Lack of Reliable Public Transit

Another potential downside to consider is the lack of reliable public transportation options. While there are a few buses and some light rail options that run through the region, the San Fernando Valley is mostly a car-centric region.

This can be a challenge for people who don’t have their own vehicles and heavily rely on public transportation.

The Metro does have a plan to improve public transit through San Fernando Valley via the North San Fernando Valley Transit Corridor Project, which will add more options for locals and tourists to get around from points A to B.

However, this is not expected to be completed until 2025 so you may have to wait a bit.

👎 Crime Concerns in Some Areas

Just as with the rest of Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley region is known to have higher crime rates than other parts of California, let alone the entire US.

While it’s not necessarily dangerous, it does mean that it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings when out and about.

Is The Valley Safe?

Going along with the same topic, safety can be a concern in the Valley, just as with any other region.

However, the level of safety hugely depends on the specific area you’re looking to move to or visit.

Some neighborhoods naturally will have higher crime rates than others, so make sure to do some quick research before you move or set out to visit.

That being said, there are absolutely many safe and family-friendly neighborhoods in the Valley, such as Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Calabasas, and Encino.

To err on the side of caution, just be sure to lock your doors and be aware of your surroundings, regardless of where you are in the Valley.

Petty crime such as theft tends to be the biggest concern in these parts.

How To Get To The Valley

The best way to get to the Valley hugely depends on where you are coming from in the first place.

If you’re flying into LA, then you can fly into either Los Angeles International (LAX) or Burbank Bob Hope Airport (BUR).

The Burbank Airport is closest for sure, but it tends to be a bit more expensive for flights since it’s not as large of an airport as LAX.

If you’re driving, then the best way to get to the Valley is to take the 101 Freeway, which runs right through the heart of San Fernando Valley.

Just make sure that you account for the traffic, which can (and most likely will) be heavy, especially during rush hour.

How To Get Around

As mentioned earlier, the Valley is mostly a car-centric region, with most folks getting around by their own means.

However, there are a few public transportation options available, such as buses and the Metro rail, but they don’t tend to be all that reliable depending on where you’re trying to get to.

Another great thing about the Valley area is that there are so many bike lanes and trails throughout.

So, if you like to get around by bike or just trying to work on your fitness, the Valley is a great place to get by on two wheels.

If all else fails, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are always readily available in the Valley.

The rideshare bills can add up of course, but they do make it easy to get around if you don’t have your own car.

Best Things To Do In The Valley

There are virtually countless things to do in the Valley, from outdoor adventures to iconic experiences. Here are a few of the best things to do in the Valley:

😍 Visit Universal Studios

Universal Studios Hollywood is a famous theme park that just so happens to also be a working movie studio.

You’ll find a variety of rides, shows, and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows. My favorite ride is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey!

😍 Explore Griffith Observatory

Located in the nearby Hollywood Hills, Griffith Observatory offers great views of the city and the stars at night.

The observatory itself also hosts ongoing exhibits and planetarium shows if you’re into that kind of thing.

😍 Hike in the Santa Monica Mountains

You can find many amazing hikes in LA in general, but many hidden gems are up in the Valley.

The Santa Monica Mountains offer miles upon miles of hiking trails with absolutely unbeatable views of the Valley and surrounding areas. Some of my favorite hikes here are Solstice Canyon Loop, Sandstone Peak, and the Grotto Trail.

😍 Visit the Getty Center

The Getty Center is yet another famous attraction in the area. This art museum and research institute features a collection of art galleries, European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, as well as beautiful architecture and gardens.

😍 Hit up a concert or show at the Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl is a historic outdoor amphitheater that hosts many concerts and shows of all genres and styles throughout the year, from classical music to popular bands and artists.

😍 Visit one of the many malls

The San Fernando Valley region is no stranger to shopping, with many strip malls and shopping centers to choose from. Northridge Fashion Center, Sherman Oaks Galleria, and the Topanga Village Shopping Center are some of my favorites in the local area.

Beyond these attractions, the Valley is home to many local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Valley Greek Festival, the Burbank International Film Festival, and the Taste of Encino. You’ll truly never run out of things to do here.

Best Places To Eat & Drink In The Valley

Just like the rest of LA, the Valley is home to a deliciously vibrant food and drink scene, with a wide range of options to satisfy any taste or budget.

Here are a few of the many amazing places to eat and drink in the Valley region:

🍽️ Porto’s Bakery & Cafe

Porto’s Bakery & Cafe is a local eatery that’s locally known for its delicious Cuban pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. It’s also a great place for a quick catch-up with friends over coffee!

🍽️ The Front Yard

Located inside the Garland Hotel, The Front Yard is a wildly popular gastropub located in NoHo that offers a huge selection of craft beers and cocktails, as well as the usual pub fare (but next level of course).

🍽️ Sushi Katsu-Ya

Sushi Katsu-Ya is a sushi restaurant in Studio City that offers absolutely top-notch quality sushi and Japanese cuisine. LA has some of the best seafood.

🍽️ Cilantro Mexican Grill

Located in NoHo, Cilantro Mexican Grill is not what you would expect for a restaurant, especially since it’s in a gas station. But the place is undeniably good and has earned many accolades for its amazing food over the years.

🍽️ In-N-Out Burger

This is a no-brainer. No visit to California is complete without a stop at In-N-Out Burger, a beloved fast-food chain known for its fresh, delicious burgers and fries.

Best Places To Stay In The Valley

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxurious getaway, the Valley has a variety of options to suit any traveler’s needs regardless of your budget constraints. Here are a few of the best places to stay in the Valley:

💲 Budget-friendly option: The Hilton Garden Inn Burbank Downtown is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly hotel. It offers very comfy rooms and amenities, as well as a great location to serve as a launching point for your Valley exploration.

💲💲 Mid-tier option: The Tangerine is a mid-scale hotel located in the heart of Burbank. Found in Burbank, it offers quick and easy access to many of the Valley’s best attractions.

💲💲💲 Luxury option: The Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village is a luxurious hotel located in nearby Westlake Village. It offers beautiful views, a rejuvenating spa, and many other amenities to make your stay comfortable and as, well, luxurious as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered The Valley in Los Angeles?

The Valley, also known as San Fernando Valley, is a region located in the northwestern part of Los Angeles, California. It’s home to a long list of cities and neighborhoods, including Burbank, Calabasas, Glendale, North Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Woodland Hills, and many more.

What is The Valley in LA known for?

The Valley is known for many things. However, it’s mostly known for its very sunny weather, diverse pop culture, and neighborhoods, and somewhat surprisingly thriving entertainment industry.
It has been featured in countless movies and TV shows and is home to many iconic landmarks and attractions that you’ve surely heard of.

Is The Valley a nice part of LA?

Yes, the Valley has generally been considered a nice part of LA. Many affluent people make their living in the heart of LA but then retreat to the San Fernando Valley to get away from the busyness of the main city.

It offers a suburban feel with easy access to the city and is home to a variety of amazing restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Is The Valley cheaper than LA?

The cost of living in the Valley honestly varies depending on the specific neighborhood and amenities you’re looking for.
In general, the cost of living in the Valley is slightly lower than in other parts of LA, such as West LA or Beverly Hills. If you choose to live in Calabasas, for example, you can absolutely expect to pay premium bucks for your home.
However, it’s still considered an expensive area to live in, especially if you’re coming from cheaper areas of the US like the Southeast, for example.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Valley in California is a great place to live or visit. It’s a very diverse and fun region of the larger LA County area that truly offers something for just about any and everyone.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor just trying to get a feel of all that LA has to offer, there are virtually unlimited attractions, restaurants, and events to explore.

While it definitely has its fair share of both pros and cons like any other place, the Valley (San Fernando Valley) is generally considered a nice and safe part of LA, with an amazing community and so many options for entertainment, adventure, fun, and beyond.

If you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles, be sure to add the Valley to your list of must-visit destinations. You won’t regret it, and countless others find it to be the best place they’ve ever visited or lived.

This post was written by my friend Pierre, who lives in the Valley with additional insights from Shreeyeh from Bae Area and Beyond.