Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in North Hollywood, CA

Last Updated: October 22, 2025By Tags:
North Hollywood, CA

Salary And Cost Of Living In North Hollywood CA

North Hollywood, CA, located in the San Fernando Valley region of Los Angeles, has evolved into a vibrant hub for entertainment professionals, creatives, and young families. As the NoHo Arts District continues to grow, many people are evaluating whether living in North Hollywood is financially feasible. Understanding the average salary, cost of living, housing prices, neighborhood options, and schools in North Hollywood, CA is essential for anyone considering a move or career change in this area. The following guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision.

Average Salary In North Hollywood CA

North Hollywood’s economy is closely tied to the broader Los Angeles job market, particularly in entertainment, media, technology, retail, and service industries. While individual earnings vary, average salaries in North Hollywood, CA are generally in line with the Los Angeles metro area, with some occupations earning notably more due to industry concentration.

Below is an approximate breakdown of common salary ranges in North Hollywood, CA:

Job Category (North Hollywood, CA) Typical Annual Salary Range
Administrative & Office Support $40,000 – $60,000
Retail & Customer Service $35,000 – $50,000
Creative & Entertainment (actors, editors, designers) $50,000 – $90,000+
Technology & IT $80,000 – $130,000+
Healthcare Professionals $60,000 – $120,000+
Hospitality & Food Service $32,000 – $45,000

In many cases, a household income of around $75,000 to $100,000 per year is often considered the threshold for comfortably covering rent or mortgage payments, transportation, food, and entertainment in North Hollywood, CA. Dual-income households commonly find it easier to keep pace with rising local costs.

Cost Of Living In North Hollywood CA

When examining the cost of living in North Hollywood, CA, it is important to remember that the area is part of Los Angeles, one of the most expensive metropolitan regions in the United States. While North Hollywood can be slightly more affordable than trendy areas like Hollywood, West Hollywood, or Santa Monica, it is still significantly higher than the national average.

The following table summarizes typical monthly living expenses for a single adult and a family of four in North Hollywood, CA (excluding savings and discretionary splurges):

Expense Category (North Hollywood, CA) Single Adult (Monthly) Family Of Four (Monthly)
Rent (apartment) $2,000 – $2,600 $2,800 – $3,800
Utilities (electric, gas, water, trash, internet) $180 – $260 $220 – $320
Groceries $350 – $550 $800 – $1,200
Transportation (gas, insurance, Metro passes) $200 – $400 $450 – $700
Health Insurance & Medical $200 – $400 $500 – $900
Dining Out & Entertainment $200 – $400 $350 – $600

Overall, the cost of living in North Hollywood, CA is well above the national average, driven largely by housing, transportation, and healthcare. However, the neighborhood’s public transit access via the Metro B (Red) and G (Orange) Lines can help offset some transportation costs, especially for residents who commute to Hollywood, Downtown Los Angeles, or nearby studio lots.

Average Home Values And Rents In North Hollywood CA

The real estate market in North Hollywood, CA has experienced steady appreciation, fueled by ongoing development in the NoHo Arts District, improved transportation options, and the neighborhood’s growing popularity among young professionals and creative workers.

The table below provides an overview of approximate home values and rental prices in North Hollywood, CA:

Property Type (North Hollywood, CA) Typical Price / Rent Range
Median Single-Family Home Value $850,000 – $1,050,000
Townhome / Condo Value $600,000 – $800,000
Studio Apartment Rent $1,700 – $2,100 per month
1-Bedroom Apartment Rent $1,900 – $2,500 per month
2-Bedroom Apartment Rent $2,400 – $3,200 per month
3-Bedroom Apartment Or Small Home Rent $3,000 – $4,200 per month

To visualize how property types compare in North Hollywood, CA, consider the following simple chart-style table:

North Hollywood, CA Housing Type Relative Cost Indicator
Studio / Micro Unit $$
1-Bedroom Apartment $$$
2-Bedroom Apartment $$$$
Single-Family Home (Purchase) $$$$$

Rents and home prices in North Hollywood, CA continue to trend upward, so prospective renters and buyers should be prepared to act quickly and budget for competitive pricing, especially in walkable areas near the Metro stations and arts district.

Best Neighborhoods In North Hollywood CA

When choosing where to live in North Hollywood, CA, it is important to consider lifestyle, commute, noise levels, and budget. Several sub-neighborhoods within North Hollywood offer distinct experiences, all within relatively close proximity to one another.

Some of the best neighborhoods in North Hollywood, CA include:

Neighborhood / Area Key Features Typical Appeal
NoHo Arts District Theaters, galleries, cafes, nightlife, walkable streets, new mixed-use developments Ideal for creatives, young professionals, and those who prioritize culture and entertainment
Valley Village Adjacent (South Of Burbank Blvd.) Tree-lined residential streets, single-family homes, quieter atmosphere, good freeway access Appeals to families and professionals seeking a more suburban feel near North Hollywood, CA
East North Hollywood (Near Burbank & Sun Valley) Industrial and residential mix, some more affordable rentals and older homes Good for budget-conscious renters who still want access to North Hollywood amenities
Metro-Adjacent Corridor (Around Lankershim & Chandler) Transit-oriented developments, apartments, quick access to Metro B & G Lines Ideal for commuters who rely on public transit to Hollywood or Downtown Los Angeles

Each of these areas within North Hollywood, CA offers a different balance of cost, convenience, and lifestyle. Prospective residents should consider visiting at different times of day to observe traffic, noise, and activity levels before making a final decision.

Schools In North Hollywood CA

Families and students evaluating North Hollywood, CA will find that the neighborhood is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), as well as a variety of public magnet schools, charter schools, and nearby private institutions. School quality can vary, so researching specific campuses is vital.

The following table lists a sampling of well-known schools serving North Hollywood, CA residents:

School Name (North Hollywood, CA Area) Type Grades Notable Features
North Hollywood High School Public / Magnet 9–12 Known for strong academic and magnet programs, including STEM and gifted tracks
Lankershim Elementary School Public K–5 Neighborhood elementary serving central North Hollywood, CA
Walter Reed Middle School Public 6–8 Popular middle school drawing students from North Hollywood and Valley Village
Oakwood School (Nearby) Private K–12 Independent school with strong arts and college-prep focus, accessible from North Hollywood
Charter & Magnet Options Charter / Magnet Varies Several specialized programs emphasize the arts, STEM, and college readiness

Families living in North Hollywood, CA are encouraged to review school performance data, tour campuses, and speak with local parents to determine which programs best fit their educational priorities, especially given the range of magnet and charter options within LAUSD.

Living In North Hollywood CA Is It Worth The Cost

Ultimately, deciding whether to live in North Hollywood, CA depends on balancing income, lifestyle, and long-term goals. The area offers strong access to entertainment and tech jobs, vibrant arts and dining scenes, and convenient public transit. However, these advantages are accompanied by higher housing costs and an overall elevated cost of living.

For professionals who work in nearby studios, Hollywood, Burbank, or Downtown Los Angeles, North Hollywood, CA can be a strategic and rewarding place to live. Those who secure competitive salaries or share housing costs often find that the neighborhood’s culture, amenities, and central Valley location justify the expense.

By carefully reviewing average salaries, cost of living, home values, neighborhoods, and schools in North Hollywood, CA, prospective residents can create a realistic budget and housing plan. With thoughtful preparation, living in North Hollywood can deliver an excellent blend of urban energy, creative opportunities, and community atmosphere in the heart of the San Fernando Valley.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in North Hollywood, CA

What is it like to live in North Hollywood, CA?

North Hollywood offers an urban-suburban mix with a strong arts presence, diverse dining options, and convenient access to the rest of Los Angeles. The neighborhood is known for the NoHo Arts District, theaters, dance studios, and creative spaces, which give the area an energetic and cultural feel. Many residents are young professionals and creatives, attracted by relatively more affordable rents compared to nearby areas like Studio City or Burbank. While certain blocks are busier and more commercial, residential streets can feel quieter, especially slightly away from major boulevards. As with any dense urban area, experiences can vary by specific street and building, so it is advisable to visit at different times of day before choosing a place to live.

Is North Hollywood a safe place to live?

Safety in North Hollywood can vary by block and proximity to busy commercial corridors. The area experiences the typical urban mix of minor property crime, vehicle break-ins, and occasional more serious incidents, similar to many neighborhoods in the San Fernando Valley. The NoHo Arts District and areas around newer mixed-use developments tend to be more active, well-lit, and frequently patrolled, while some industrial or less-trafficked streets can feel less secure at night. Residents often recommend standard urban precautions, such as securing vehicles, being aware of surroundings, and choosing buildings with controlled access. It is a good practice to review recent crime maps, speak with local residents, and visit both daytime and nighttime before making a decision.

How expensive is it to live in North Hollywood compared to other LA neighborhoods?

North Hollywood is generally considered moderately priced by Los Angeles standards, often more affordable than neighborhoods in central Los Angeles or the Westside, but more expensive than some outlying Valley communities. Rental prices have increased with the growth of the NoHo Arts District and new apartment developments near the Metro stations and main boulevards. Modern, amenity-rich buildings close to transit and nightlife tend to command higher rents, while older buildings or locations farther from the core arts district may offer more competitive pricing. Overall, residents often see North Hollywood as a balance between cost, amenities, and access to jobs in the entertainment and media industries nearby.

What transportation and commute options are available in North Hollywood?

North Hollywood is one of the better-connected neighborhoods in the San Fernando Valley. The North Hollywood Station serves as a major transit hub, offering access to the B Line (Red) Metro rail to Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles, and the G Line (Orange) busway running across the Valley. Multiple bus routes and rideshare services supplement these options. For drivers, the neighborhood is close to the 170 and 101 freeways, though commute times can increase significantly during rush hour. Many residents choose North Hollywood specifically for the ability to commute by rail or rapid bus to employment centers in Hollywood, Downtown LA, or other parts of the Valley, reducing dependence on driving.

What amenities, entertainment, and lifestyle options does North Hollywood offer residents?

North Hollywood provides a wide range of amenities, particularly for those interested in arts and entertainment. The NoHo Arts District features live theaters, comedy venues, dance studios, galleries, and independent performance spaces. Residents have access to diverse restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and fitness studios, with many options concentrated near Lankershim Boulevard and Magnolia Boulevard. There are parks and recreational facilities nearby, and larger outdoor spaces in the Valley are reachable by car. Essential services such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and banking are readily available in and around the area. The neighborhood’s blend of cultural venues, nightlife, and practical conveniences supports a vibrant yet livable daily routine for many residents.

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