Beverly Hills, California

From the rows of gorgeous houses to the easy access to downtown Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice, and Koreatown, Beverly Hills is what many would consider perfectly located real estate. Some of the best shopping centers and restaurants in all of Los Angeles are at your disposal, as well as numerous parks and a superb public library. Additionally, many of Los Angeles County’s best beaches are only a short drive away. Furthermore, Beverly Hills’ status as an independent city right in the middle of Los Angeles and within the county allows for self-governance and a greater commitment to keeping the city clean and safe than you can find in much of the area, meaning that local beauty maintains its sheen.

Much of what locals love about the location though is that in spite of being in the middle of the chaos of Los Angeles, Beverly Hills is an oasis of greater calm for locals. Sure you get tourists on Rodeo Drive, but most of the city is beautiful neighborhoods with quiet residential blocks. Hard to beat that.

Simply put, while its status as a celebration of the rich and famous is overstated, the cost of living is definitely on the high side in Beverly Hills. The city’s luxurious houses do not come cheap, and amenities such as groceries, gasoline, and utilities are similarly high-priced. This can also be reflected in attitudes of the locals- Beverly Hills has a reputation for being home to celebrities and aspiring socialites. Many fear the judgmental attitudes of Beverly Hills and its residents, and while this is also overstated, it can be off-putting to those who prefer a more modest and subdued lifestyle.

Beverly Hills size and insularity drives a sense of community. The local government is designed for public participation, with city beautification efforts and other services funded by public offices. Beverly Hills is perfect for families due to the many great schools, services and events at the local library, and numerous parks and community events. The strong sense of community often leads residents to forming close bonds with their neighbors, which in general fosters a high opinion of the area among families.

Beverly Hills also has a high number of elderly residents, making it a perfect place for retirees to bask in the warm California sun alongside their fellow senior citizens. That being said, if the nightclub and bar hopping scene is something you crave, while you won’t find Beverly Hills the most accommodating, West Hollywood is only a short drive away to service all of your partying needs.