Living in South LA & Inglewood: A Guide for Newcomers

What Is South LA?

"South LA" generally refers to the neighborhoods and communities south of the 10 Freeway and west of the 110, extending to the edges of Inglewood and the South Bay. Historically, this region has been home to LA's Black and Latino communities, rich in culture, activism, and history.
Key areas include Leimert Park, Baldwin Hills, Crenshaw, Inglewood, Windsor Hills, and View Park. With major investments in infrastructure and housing in recent years, South LA is rapidly changing — attracting newcomers while still holding onto deep community roots.

The Vibe
South LA has soul. It’s one of the most culturally significant regions in the city, with music, food, art, and activism woven into everyday life. There’s a strong neighborhood feel here — block parties, long-standing churches, and multi-generational households are common.
At the same time, development is accelerating. From the arrival of SoFi Stadium in Inglewood to new Metro lines along Crenshaw, South LA is in the middle of a transformation. That comes with excitement — and tension.

Key Neighborhoods in South LA

Leimert Park – The cultural heart of Black LA, known for its arts scene, jazz heritage, and Afrocentric shops. Tree-lined streets and Spanish-style homes make it feel residential and peaceful.
Baldwin Hills / View Park / Windsor Hills – Sometimes called the "Black Beverly Hills," these neighborhoods offer hillside views, mid-century homes, and a sense of quiet wealth.
Crenshaw – A hub of community, commerce, and culture. The Crenshaw/LAX Metro line is bringing new connectivity and change.
Inglewood – The biggest story in the region. Home to SoFi Stadium, The Kia Forum, and the upcoming Intuit Dome. It's undergoing a rapid transformation, with major development and rising housing prices.
West Adams – Technically on the edge of South LA, this historic area is seeing heavy reinvestment and an influx of restaurants, coffee shops, and renovated homes. It is the "New, New" and white-hot with newcomers.

Who Lives Here?

Longtime Black and Latino families and homeowners
First-time homebuyers seeking value near central LA
Artists, musicians, and cultural workers
Professionals looking for shorter commutes and more space
New investors and developers entering a rising market

Housing Snapshot
South LA offers more space for your money than the Westside or Eastside, though prices are climbing. The region has many single-family homes, duplexes, and some new mixed-use developments near transit lines.

Rent: $1,700–$2,800 for 1-2BR units, with some luxury apartments emerging near Inglewood
Buy: Starter homes can range from $700K–$1.2M depending on location and proximity to new developments
It's one of the few areas in LA where homeownership is still somewhat attainable for first-time buyers.

Commute & Transit

Driving: Centrally located for quick access to Culver City, DTLA, the Westside, and even LAX
Transit: New Metro lines like the K Line (Crenshaw/LAX) are expanding access. Bus service is widespread.
Best case: Great for anyone working at LAX, in West LA, or Downtown

Things to Do

Arts & Culture: Leimert Park Plaza, African American cultural centers, art walks
Events: Taste of Soul, neighborhood festivals, community music shows
Shopping & Food: Soul food spots, local cafes, family-owned businesses
Sports & Entertainment: SoFi Stadium, The Forum, soon-to-open Intuit Dome
Green Space: Kenneth Hahn State Park, Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Culturally rich with deep community roots
Centrally located with improving transit
More affordable than many other LA regions
Strong sense of identity and local pride
Ongoing development and reinvestment

Cons:

Rising prices and gentrification pressure
School performance varies by neighborhood
Infrastructure can lag behind newer areas
Still shaking off outdated stigmas and underinvestment

Is South LA Right for You?
If you're looking for a vibrant, central community with history and heart — and you’re okay with being part of a changing landscape — South LA might be your spot. It offers more house for the dollar, rich culture, and quick access to the rest of the city.