Top 16 Rich Neighborhoods in Los Angeles Students Should Know

Los Angeles isn’t just about Hollywood glitz; it’s a city buzzing with opportunities, adventure, and of course, amazing campuses. Home to over 500,000 college students across top universities like UCLA, USC, Loyola Marymount, and Pepperdine, LA is a hub for learning, networking, and building your future. For students, knowing the rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles is more than just a status check; it’s about safety, lifestyle, and being close to everything that matters. From Beverly Hills’ streets to Brentwood’s tree-lined avenues, these LA rich neighborhoods offer easy access to campuses, buzzing hangouts, and spots that make your Instagram pop.

Top 16 Rich Neighborhoods in Los Angeles for Students

Discover the rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles where students can enjoy safety, iconic lifestyle spots, and easy access to top universities. From celebrity-filled streets to well-connected areas, these neighborhoods combine glamour with student-friendly opportunities. Below are 16 neighborhoods that stand out for students seeking the perfect mix of luxury, convenience, and campus life.

1. Beverly Hills

Safety Index: 9.2/10
Student Population: ~12,000 students in and around the area
Lifestyle: Rodeo Drive, luxury spas, Beverly Hills Hotel, Soho House
Nearby Universities: UCLA, USC, Loyola Marymount
Employability Rate: ~90% within 6 months of graduation for local internships
Commute Options: Metro Expo Line + local shuttles – ~25 mins to Downtown LA
Best For: Students seeking upscale lifestyle exposure, networking, and luxury experiences.
Best Apartments: 832 Hilgard Ave, 4241 Kling St

Beverly Hills is one of the most famous rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, often called the “playground of the stars.” Known for its celebrity residents like Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Aniston, and Kim Kardashian, it’s not just a place for the rich; it’s a hub of culture, luxury, and student-friendly networking opportunities. The area is home to over 12,000 students living nearby in LA, giving a lively mix of young talent and elite lifestyle. Elite clubs like Soho House and high-end shopping streets like Rodeo Drive make it a hotspot for lifestyle experiences. Students get a glimpse of LA’s glamour while still being close to UCLA and USC, making it a prime Los Angeles rich area for both leisure and career exposure.

2. Bel Air

Safety Index: 9.3/10
Student Population: ~10,000 students in and around the area
Lifestyle: Bel-Air Country Club, Hotel Bel-Air, hiking trails, elite estates
Nearby Universities: UCLA, USC, Loyola Marymount
Employability Rate: ~88% within 6 months of graduation for local internships
Commute Options: Metro Expo Line + shuttles – ~20-25 mins to Downtown LA
Best For: Students seeking exclusivity, luxury networking, and serene living
Best Apartments: 10777 Ashton 202, Wilshire Margot

Bel Air is one of the most prestigious rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, renowned for its sprawling estates and privacy. Home to celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Ben Affleck, this area defines luxury living. Over 10,000 students reside in and around Bel Air, drawn by its safety, networking opportunities, and proximity to top universities. Students can enjoy serene surroundings while being close to UCLA (5 mi), USC (12 mi), and Loyola Marymount (15 mi). Iconic lifestyle spots like Bel-Air Country Club, Hotel Bel-Air, and scenic hiking trails make it a unique Los Angeles rich area for students seeking a blend of prestige, leisure, and career exposure.

3. Hollywood Hills

Safety Index: 8.8/10
Student Population: ~9,500 students in and around the area
Lifestyle: Hollywood Bowl, Griffith Observatory, scenic hiking trails, exclusive estates
Nearby Universities: UCLA, USC, American Film Institute
Employability Rate: ~87% within 6 months of graduation for internships in entertainment
Commute Options: Metro Red Line + rideshares – ~20 mins to Downtown LA
Best For: Students seeking proximity to entertainment hubs, luxury living, and scenic views

Hollywood Hills is one of the most sought-after rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, famous for its panoramic city views, luxurious hillside estates, and proximity to the heart of the entertainment industry. Known for celebrity residents like Katy Perry and Kim Kardashian, the area exudes prestige while offering students exposure to LA’s media and film scene. Around 9,500 students live in or near the Hollywood Hills, drawn by its lifestyle, networking opportunities, and closeness to internships in film, media, and production. From Griffith Observatory to the Hollywood Bowl, the neighborhood blends scenic beauty with career potential, making it a prime choice among wealthy neighborhoods in Los Angeles for students balancing study and opportunity.

4. Brentwood

Safety Index: 9.1/10
Student Population: ~8,000 students nearby
Lifestyle: Brentwood Country Club, Montana Avenue shopping, boutique cafes, parks
Nearby Universities: UCLA, Loyola Marymount, Santa Monica College
Employability Rate: ~88% within 6 months of graduation for internships in business, media, and wellness industries
Commute Options: Metro Expo Line + rideshares – ~25 mins to Downtown LA
Best For: Students seeking quiet, safe, and upscale living with access to campus and networking

Brentwood is recognized as one of the rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, offering a calm and upscale environment that balances luxury with a student-friendly vibe. Known for its tree-lined streets, exclusive homes, and celebrity residents like Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston, Brentwood is often considered one of the richest neighborhoods in LA. Around 8,000 students live in and near the area, attracted by its safe surroundings, proximity to UCLA, and access to lifestyle perks like boutique cafes, wellness centers, and the Brentwood Country Club. The neighborhood provides students with a serene space for study while keeping them connected to LA’s professional and cultural opportunities.

5. Santa Monica

Safety Index: 9.0/10
Student Population: ~10,000 students nearby
Lifestyle: Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade, trendy cafes, Palisades Park
Nearby Universities: LMU, Santa Monica College, UCLA
Employability Rate: ~87% within 6 months of graduation for internships in media, tech, and arts
Commute Options: Metro Expo Line + bikes – ~30 mins to Downtown LA
Best For: Students seeking a coastal lifestyle, safety, and access to campus and professional opportunities
Best Apartments: Lindbrook Manor Apartments, West LA

Santa Monica is one of the rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, famous for its coastal living, stunning beaches, and trendy lifestyle. Often cited among the rich neighborhoods LA students admire, the area attracts students who want a mix of education, leisure, and networking opportunities. Home to around 10,000 students, Santa Monica offers safe streets, beachside jogging paths, and a lively cafe and co-working culture, making it ideal for those attending Loyola Marymount University (LMU) and nearby colleges. With a balance of calm residential streets and lively commercial hubs like the Third Street Promenade, students enjoy both study and lifestyle perks in a rich, well-connected neighborhood.

6. Malibu

Safety Index: 9.5/10
Student Population: ~5,000 students nearby
Lifestyle: Malibu Pier, Zuma Beach, Surfrider Beach, scenic hiking trails
Nearby Universities: Pepperdine University, Santa Monica College, LMU
Employability Rate: ~88% within 6 months of graduation for internships in media, arts, and environmental projects
Commute Options: Car, shuttle services, and occasional public transport – ~40 mins to West LA
Best For: Students seeking private beaches, outdoor study spots, and a celebrity-adjacent lifestyle

Malibu is widely regarded as one of the rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, often called the richest neighborhood in Los Angeles for its private beaches, celebrity residents, and exclusive coastal estates. Known for its surfing culture, ocean views, and scenic study spots, Malibu provides a unique lifestyle for students who enjoy balancing academics with recreation. Around 5,000 students live in and around Malibu, benefiting from safe streets, beachside cafes, and outdoor learning spaces. Proximity to Pepperdine University and nearby creative hubs offers opportunities for internships in media, environmental studies, and arts, making Malibu a prime destination for students seeking a luxurious yet student-friendly environment.

7. Westwood

Safety Index: 8.8/10
Student Population: ~15,000 students nearby
Lifestyle: Westwood Village, Hammer Museum, Century City theaters, boutique cafes
Nearby Universities: UCLA, Loyola Marymount University, Santa Monica College
Employability Rate: ~91% within 6 months of graduation for internships and part-time roles
Commute Options: Metro Expo Line + shuttles – ~20 mins to Downtown LA
Best For: Students seeking spirited student life, networking, and easy access to campus
Best Apartments: 1439 Armacost Ave, 1515 Colby Ave

Westwood is one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, known for its student community and upscale lifestyle. Anchored by UCLA, it’s a hotspot for students seeking a mix of academics and city life. With over 15,000 students living nearby, Westwood offers a safe and lively environment, packed with cafes, libraries, study lounges, and entertainment venues. The area’s proximity to iconic spots like Westwood Village, fine dining, and networking hubs makes it a prime, rich neighborhood in Los Angeles for students aiming to balance studies with career opportunities in tech, media, and business.

8. Pacific Palisades

Safety Index: 9.3/10
Student Population: ~8,000 students nearby
Lifestyle: Coastal beaches, Temescal Canyon trails, The Riviera Country Club, fine dining
Nearby Universities: UCLA, Loyola Marymount University, Pepperdine University
Employability Rate: ~89% for internships and local opportunities within 6 months
Commute Options: Pacific Coast Highway + shuttles – ~25 mins to Santa Monica and Westwood
Best For: Students seeking peace, coastal luxury, and outdoor recreation

Pacific Palisades is one of the most rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, famous for its stunning coastal views, quiet streets, and outdoor lifestyle. Students living nearby benefit from a peaceful environment that still offers easy access to LA’s academic and career hubs. With around 8,000 students in the vicinity, the area strikes a balance between study-friendly calm and access to social and networking opportunities. Known for elite spots like The Riviera Country Club, scenic Temescal Canyon hiking trails, and upscale dining at Geoffrey’s Malibu, Pacific Palisades is a prime choice for students looking to experience LA rich neighborhoods while pursuing their studies.

9. Playa Vista

Safety Index: 9.1/10
Student Population: ~7,500 students nearby
Lifestyle: Tech hubs, creative studios, The Runway Playa Vista, Ballona Wetlands, trendy cafes
Nearby Universities: Loyola Marymount University, UCLA, USC
Employability Rate: ~91% for internships in tech and creative industries within 6 months
Commute Options: Metro Expo Line + bike lanes – ~20 mins to Santa Monica and Westwood
Best For: Students seeking tech exposure, a modern lifestyle, and internship opportunities

Playa Vista is one of the most rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, often called “Silicon Beach” due to its thriving tech and creative industries. Students living nearby have access to a unique blend of academic opportunities, internships, and lifestyle perks. With approximately 7,500 students in the area, Playa Vista offers a modern atmosphere complemented by student-friendly amenities. The neighborhood is home to tech giants and creative firms, making it a hotspot for networking and career exposure. Popular spots like The Runway Playa Vista, Ballona Wetlands, and trendy eateries such as Sweetgreen provide both relaxation and study-friendly environments. It makes Playa Vista a prime Los Angeles rich area for students looking to merge education with experience.

10. Studio City

Safety Index: 8.8/10
Student Population: ~8,000 students in and around the area
Lifestyle: Warner Bros. Studio tours, Tujunga Village, Fryman Canyon Park, trendy cafes
Nearby Universities: UCLA, USC, Loyola Marymount
Employability Rate: ~89% for internships in media and entertainment
Commute Options: Metro Line + local shuttles – ~20 mins to Hollywood & Downtown LA
Best For: Students aiming for careers in entertainment, media, and creative industries
Best Apartments: Hollywood Afton, Hollywood Carlos

Studio City is one of the rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, famed for its close ties to the entertainment industry. With over 8,000 students living nearby, it’s a lively neighborhood where aspiring creatives and media students can immerse themselves in LA’s culture. The area boasts iconic studios like Warner Bros. Studio and popular hangouts such as Tujunga Village, Fryman Canyon Park, and trendy cafes like The Front Yard. It's a mix of student energy and upscale lifestyle. Studio City is a prime, rich LA neighborhood for students seeking networking, internship opportunities, and a balanced lifestyle between study and recreation.

11. Hancock Park

Safety Index: 9.0/10
Student Population: ~6,500 students in and around the area
Lifestyle: Wilshire Boulevard, Larchmont Village, The Sycamore Kitchen, historic architecture
Nearby Universities: UCLA, USC, Loyola Marymount
Employability Rate: ~88% for internships in business, arts, and media
Commute Options: Metro Line + local shuttles – ~15–20 mins to Downtown LA
Best For: Students looking for calm, study-friendly surroundings with upscale vibes

Hancock Park is one of the rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, celebrated for its historic mansions, classic Los Angeles architecture, and tree-lined streets. The neighborhood offers a peaceful environment while being only a short drive from LA’s bustling hubs. With around 6,500 students living nearby, it’s ideal for those seeking a quiet study atmosphere without missing out on the city’s opportunities. Iconic spots like Wilshire Boulevard, Larchmont Village, and local cafes such as The Sycamore Kitchen provide both lifestyle perks and networking potential. Its blend of tranquility, heritage, and accessibility makes Hancock Park one of the wealthy neighborhoods in Los Angeles suited for student life.

12. Silver Lake 

Safety Index: 8.5/10
Student Population: ~7,000 students in and around the area
Lifestyle: Indie music at The Satellite, coffee at Intelligentsia, Silver Lake Reservoir walks
Nearby Universities: UCLA, USC, Loyola Marymount
Employability Rate: ~87% for creative and tech internships
Commute Options: Metro + bus lines – ~20 mins to Downtown LA
Best For: Students seeking a creative, artsy, and social lifestyle
Best Apartments: Fedora Villas (1210 Fedora St), Lex by Category

Silver Lake stands out among rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles for its artsy culture, indie music scene, and trendy coffee shops. Known as a hub for young creatives and students, the neighborhood blends bohemian charm with upscale living, making it one of the richest neighborhoods in LA. Around 7,000 students live nearby, enjoying easy access to cultural events, art galleries, and nightlife spots like The Satellite, Intelligentsia Coffee, and Silver Lake Reservoir. Its lively energy, combined with a supportive student community, makes Silver Lake ideal for students who want to immerse themselves in LA’s creative and academic life.

13. Venice

Safety Index: 8.3/10
Student Population: ~6,500 students in and around the area
Lifestyle: Venice Beach Boardwalk, Abbot Kinney shops, Venice Canals strolls
Nearby Universities: UCLA, USC, Loyola Marymount
Employability Rate: ~85% for internships in arts, entertainment, and tech
Commute Options: Metro + bus – ~25 mins to Downtown LA
Best For: Students seeking a coastal, eclectic, and social environment
Best Apartments: MySuite at Cara Co-Living, 1515 Colby Ave

Venice is one of the rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, known for its beachfront living, scenic canals, and eclectic lifestyle. This area blends laid-back coastal vibes with student-friendly spots, making it perfect for young learners who want a balance of study and leisure. About 6,500 students live nearby, enjoying iconic locations like Venice Beach Boardwalk, Abbot Kinney Boulevard, and the Venice Canals Historic District. The arts scene, street performances, and cafes create a lively environment, making Venice one of the rich neighborhoods LA students love for both lifestyle and networking opportunities.

14. Marina del Rey

Safety Index: 8.8/10
Student Population: ~4,500 students in and around the area
Lifestyle: Marina del Rey Harbor, Fisherman’s Village, Burton Chace Park
Nearby Universities: Loyola Marymount, USC, UCLA
Employability Rate: ~87% for internships in hospitality, recreation, and marine sectors
Commute Options: Metro + bike trails – ~25 mins to Santa Monica & Downtown LA
Best For: Students seeking luxury waterfront living, recreational activities, and social networking

Marina del Rey is one of the rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, often regarded as the richest neighborhood in Los Angeles for its waterfront luxury and recreational charm. Home to approximately 4,500 students, it’s ideal for those who love sailing, kayaking, and beachside hangouts. Students enjoy the Marina del Rey Harbor, Fisherman’s Village, and the Burton Chace Park area for both leisure and social life. With its scenic waterfront, student-friendly cafes, and fitness options, Marina del Rey offers a relaxed lifestyle for students looking to balance academics and recreation.

15. Pasadena (Southwest)

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Safety Index: 8.9/10
Student Population: ~6,500 students in and around the area
Lifestyle: Old Pasadena, Norton Simon Museum, Pasadena Playhouse
Nearby Universities: Caltech, Pasadena City College, ArtCenter College of Design
Employability Rate: ~88% for local internships in science, arts, and tech fields
Commute Options: Metro Gold Line + bike lanes – ~30 mins to Downtown LA
Best For: Students seeking a balance of academic excellence, cultural experiences, and heritage living

Pasadena (Southwest) is often listed among the wealthiest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, known for its historic charm and upscale living. This area is considered one of the rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles and is home to roughly 6,500 students, offering a mix of academics and culture. Students enjoy Old Pasadena, Norton Simon Museum, and the Pasadena Playhouse, making it a hub for arts, history, and student life. With Caltech and nearby universities within easy reach, Pasadena provides a unique blend of heritage homes, cultural immersion, and academic opportunities.

16. Culver City

Safety Index: 8.6/10
Student Population: ~7,000 students
Lifestyle: Sony Pictures Studios, Helms Bakery District, Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
Nearby Universities: USC, LMU, West Los Angeles College
Employability Rate: ~89% for internships in film, media, and tech
Commute Options: Metro Expo Line + buses – ~25 mins to Downtown LA
Best For: Students seeking a creative environment, a trendy lifestyle, and convenient access to campuses
Best Apartments: Wilshire Margot, Maxwell

Culver City is one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, famous for its historic film studios and dining scene. Known as a hub for creativity, it’s also recognized among the rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, attracting students who want a lively yet convenient lifestyle. Around 7,000 students live in and around Culver City, enjoying Sony Pictures Studios, Helms Bakery District, and Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. Its proximity to USC and LMU makes commuting simple, giving students access to internships and networking opportunities while experiencing the charm of LA’s cultural hotspots.

Exploring rich neighborhoods in Los Angeles, like Culver City, gives students a chance to balance academics, lifestyle, and career opportunities. From creative hubs and film studios to trendy restaurants and safe streets, these areas offer an unmatched LA experience. Being close to top universities like USC and LMU ensures easy access to classes and internships, while living in one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Los Angeles provides networking and cultural exposure. Platforms like amber make it easy for students to find verified, student-friendly accommodations in these prime areas, helping you enjoy LA life without the stress of the hunt.