Let the numbers do the talking.
North Hollywood, CA vs Santa Monica, CA
North Hollywood, CA vs Santa Monica, CA: What the data shows
North Hollywood, CA is in North Hollywood, CA while Santa Monica, CA is in Santa Monica, CA — both in the same state. On home prices, North Hollywood, CA is the more affordable option at $876,100 median — $867,700 less than Santa Monica, CA's $1,743,800. WYLT rates North Hollywood, CA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Santa Monica, CA as “Hard pass” — a neighborhood WYLT does not recommend.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. North Hollywood, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Santa Monica, CA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, North Hollywood, CA has Low flood risk and Santa Monica, CA has Low flood risk.
Santa Monica, CA is the more walkable neighborhood. North Hollywood, CA scores 46/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Santa Monica, CA's 81/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — North Hollywood, CA rates 5/10 and Santa Monica, CA rates 5/10.
| Category | North Hollywood, CA | Santa Monica, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Hard pass |
| Median Price | $876K ✓ Lower price | $1.74M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $74K | $90K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 46/100 | 81/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 51/100 | 56/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 | 80/100 |
| Commute | 19 min ✓ Shorter commute | 22 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Best for | Young professionals who work downtownArtists and creators attracted to the vibrant nightlifeBike commuters who appreciate the good bike score | High‑income professionalsStudents with strong budgetsRetirees looking for beach lifestyle |
Bottom line
For young professionals who need to commute to downtown and are budget-conscious, North Hollywood might be a better option due to its relatively lower median home price and decent bike network. However, North Hollywood's affordability and crime levels make it less ideal for families or those seeking a more vibrant neighborhood experience. On the other hand, Santa Monica is not recommended for anyone due to its extremely high cost of living and limited housing supply, making it more of a "dream" location than a reality for most people.
Share this comparison