Family-Friendly Suburban

Neighborhood Overview: Calabasas is an affluent suburban community located in the western San Fernando Valley, known for its gated communities, natural beauty, and ties to the entertainment industry. The area is popular among celebrities and families alike for its privacy, upscale amenities, and top-rated schools.

Average Home Price: $2,200,000

Average Home Size: 3,000 sq. ft.

Average $/sq. ft.: $733

School District: Las Virgenes Unified School District (LVUSD), known for its excellent public schools such as Calabasas High School and Chaparral Elementary.

Walkability: Low to moderate; most neighborhoods are car-dependent, though The Commons at Calabasas and nearby parks offer walkable areas.

Local Amenities: The Commons at Calabasas shopping center, Malibu Creek State Park, Calabasas Country Club, and the historic Leonis Adobe Museum.

Home Styles: Mediterranean-style villas, modern luxury homes, and ranch-style houses, often within gated communities.

Community Vibe: Affluent, private, and family-oriented, with a focus on outdoor living and community events.

Gated Communities:

• The Oaks: One of the most well-known gated communities in Calabasas, popular among celebrities and offering luxurious homes with top-notch amenities like a community clubhouse, parks, and security.
• Mountain View Estates: Another gated community in Calabasas, known for its large homes and family-friendly atmosphere.
• Hidden Hills: While not technically part of Calabasas, Hidden Hills is often associated with the area. It's a fully gated community known for its equestrian properties, spacious estates, and celebrity residents. 

• Neighborhood Overview: Encino is a suburban neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley known for its large homes, top-rated schools, and a blend of old and new architecture. It offers a quiet, upscale environment with easy access to both urban amenities and natural attractions.
• Average Home Price: $1,800,000
• Average Home Size: 2,700 sq. ft.
• Average $/sq. ft.: $667
• School District: Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), with highly regarded schools like Encino Charter Elementary School and nearby private schools such as Crespi Carmelite High School.
• Walkability: Moderate; Ventura Boulevard offers a walkable stretch with shops, cafes, and restaurants, while residential areas are more car-dependent.
• Local Amenities: Balboa Park, Encino Golf Course, Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area, and easy access to Ventura Boulevard’s shopping and dining.
• Home Styles: Ranch-style homes, mid-century modern houses, and luxury estates, often situated on large lots with mature landscaping.
• Community Vibe: Suburban, affluent, and family-oriented, with a mix of established families and professionals seeking a quieter lifestyle.

• Neighborhood Overview: Studio City is a suburban neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley, known for its proximity to major film studios, upscale homes, and relaxed, residential vibe.
• Average Home Price: $1,700,000
• Average Home Size: 2,200 sq. ft.
• Average $/sq. ft.: $773
• School District: LAUSD, with access to top-rated schools like Carpenter Community Charter.
• Walkability: Moderate; walkable areas around Ventura Boulevard.
• Local Amenities: Fryman Canyon Park, Universal Studios, and Ventura Boulevard shopping.
• Home Styles: Ranch-style homes, traditional, and modern residences.
• Community Vibe: Family-oriented, suburban, and convenient.

• Neighborhood Overview: Sherman Oaks is a suburban neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, shopping centers, and leafy residential streets.
• Average Home Price: $1,500,000
• Average Home Size: 2,100 sq. ft.
• Average $/sq. ft.: $714
• School District: LAUSD, with access to highly regarded schools and private options.
• Walkability: Moderate; walkable areas near the Sherman Oaks Galleria and Ventura Boulevard.
• Local Amenities: Sherman Oaks Galleria, Van Nuys-Sherman Oaks Park, and local dining.
• Home Styles: Mid-century modern, traditional, and contemporary homes.
• Community Vibe: Suburban, family-friendly, and well-established.
• Gated Communities: 
1. Mulholland Estates: a gated community located off Mulholland Drive in the Sherman Oaks/Bel Air area. It is known for its luxurious homes, celebrity residents, and panoramic views of the city.

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• Neighborhood Overview: The more residential parts of Culver City, especially those further from the downtown area, are characterized by quiet, tree-lined streets, single-family homes, and a strong sense of community. These areas are very family-friendly, with good schools, parks, and community amenities that are hallmarks of suburban living. 
• Average Home Price: $1,400,000
• Average Home Size: 1,800 sq. ft.
• Average $/sq. ft.: $778
• School District: Culver City Unified School District (CCUSD), which is highly regarded for its strong academic programs and community involvement. Notable schools include Culver City High School and El Marino Language School, a popular choice for bilingual education.
• Walkability: Moderate; while the residential areas are quieter and more car-dependent, they offer easy access to parks, schools, and local shops. The proximity to Downtown Culver City provides additional amenities within a short drive or bike ride.
• Local Amenities: The neighborhood boasts several parks, including Veterans Park and Culver City Park, which offer playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The nearby Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook (home to the “Culver City Stairs”) provides hiking trails with panoramic views of the city. Additionally, residents enjoy access to the Culver City Aquatic Center and local farmers markets.
• Home Styles: Culver City’s residential areas feature a mix of architectural styles, including mid-century modern, Craftsman bungalows, and Spanish Revival homes. In recent years, there has been an increase in modern remodels and new constructions, adding to the neighborhood’s diverse housing stock.
• Community Vibe: The residential parts of Culver City are known for their welcoming, neighborly atmosphere. Families often choose this area for its safe streets, quality schools, and active community life. There are numerous neighborhood events, such as block parties and community festivals, fostering a strong sense of belonging among residents.

• Neighborhood Overview: The suburban part of Woodland Hills, located south of Ventura Boulevard, is characterized by its peaceful, residential atmosphere. This area is known for its spacious single-family homes, often situated on large lots with mature trees and well-kept lawns. The neighborhood has a quiet, laid-back vibe, making it popular among families and those seeking a suburban lifestyle with easy access to nature. The proximity to the Santa Monica Mountains offers residents ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
• Average Home Price: $1,400,000
• Average Home Size: 2,500 sq. ft.
• Average $/sq. ft.: $560
• School District: Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), with well-regarded schools such as Calabash Charter Academy and El Camino Real Charter High School. The area also has several private school options.
• Walkability: Low to moderate; the area is primarily car-dependent, but there are walkable sections, particularly near parks and local amenities.
• Local Amenities: Residents have easy access to nature with nearby parks like Topanga State Park and hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains. The area is also close to the Woodland Hills Country Club and local shopping centers for everyday needs.
• Home Styles: Traditional single-family homes, ranch-style houses, and mid-century modern properties, often with large yards and a focus on privacy.
• Community Vibe: Family-friendly, quiet, and nature-oriented, with a strong sense of community and a focus on outdoor activities and suburban living.

• Neighborhood Overview: Ladera Heights is an upscale, predominantly residential neighborhood located in the Westside of Los Angeles. Known for its spacious homes and panoramic views of the city, Ladera Heights is often referred to as the "Hidden Gem" of the Westside, offering a quiet and affluent environment.
• Average Home Price: $1,300,000
• Average Home Size: 2,800 sq. ft.
• Average $/sq. ft.: $464
• School District: Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), with schools like Ladera Heights Preparatory Academy and nearby private schools.
• Walkability: Low to moderate; primarily car-dependent with some walkable areas near local parks and shopping centers.
• Local Amenities: Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, Ladera Center shopping, and proximity to Culver City and Playa Vista for additional dining and entertainment options.
• Home Styles: Mid-century modern, ranch-style homes, and contemporary houses, often situated on large lots with expansive views.
• Community Vibe: Quiet, affluent, and community-focused, with a strong sense of neighborhood pride and a mix of long-time residents and new families.

• Neighborhood Overview: Burbank is a family-friendly city in the San Fernando Valley, known for its strong ties to the media industry, including major studios like Warner Bros. and Disney. The city offers a mix of suburban charm and urban amenities, making it a popular choice for families and professionals.
• Average Home Price: $1,200,000
• Average Home Size: 1,800 sq. ft.
• Average $/sq. ft.: $667
• School District: Burbank Unified School District (BUSD), with highly regarded schools such as John Burroughs High School and Burbank High School.
• Walkability: Moderate to high; downtown Burbank is highly walkable, with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, while residential areas are more car-dependent.
• Local Amenities: Downtown Burbank, Warner Bros. Studios, Magnolia Park, the Burbank Town Center, and Griffith Park.
• Home Styles: Traditional single-family homes, mid-century modern houses, and newer condo developments.
• Community Vibe: Suburban, entertainment-focused, and family-friendly, with a strong sense of community and a mix of industry professionals and long-time residents.

• Neighborhood Overview: Westlake Village is a master-planned community located on the border of Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Known for its picturesque setting around Westlake Lake, the area offers a blend of suburban tranquility and upscale living. The community is characterized by its well-maintained neighborhoods, scenic views, and easy access to both city amenities and nature. Westlake Village is popular among families and professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle, with excellent schools, recreational opportunities, and a high quality of life.
• Average Home Price: $1,200,000
• Average Home Size: 2,800 sq. ft.
• Average $/Square Foot: $429
• School District: Las Virgenes Unified School District (LVUSD) and Conejo Valley Unified School District (CVUSD), both offering highly regarded schools, including Westlake High School and White Oak Elementary.
• Walkability: Moderate to high; Westlake Village is relatively walkable, especially around the lake, shopping centers, and parks. Many neighborhoods have sidewalks, and the community is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.
• Local Amenities: Westlake Village features a range of local amenities, including The Promenade at Westlake, golf courses like Westlake Golf Course, and numerous parks and green spaces. The community also has access to hiking and biking trails, and is close to the Santa Monica Mountains for outdoor recreation.
• Home Styles: Westlake Village offers a mix of Mediterranean-inspired homes, contemporary residences, and luxurious estates, many of which are situated on large lots with scenic views.
• Community Vibe: Upscale, peaceful, and family-oriented. Westlake Village combines suburban comfort with a touch of luxury, making it a desirable location for those seeking a high quality of life in a well-planned community.

• Neighborhood Overview: Outside of its urban core, Glendale offers a quieter, more suburban environment, with tree-lined streets, parks, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Areas like Rossmoyne, Verdugo Woodlands, and Chevy Chase Canyon are particularly popular among families for their spacious homes, good schools, and safe, community-oriented atmosphere.
• Average Home Price: $1,100,000
• Average Home Size: 1,700 sq. ft.
• Average $/sq. ft.: $647
• School District: Glendale Unified School District (GUSD), known for its top-rated schools such as Mark Keppel Elementary and Hoover High School.
• Walkability: Moderate; while residential areas are more car-dependent, they offer easy access to local parks, schools, and community amenities.
• Local Amenities: Verdugo Park, Deukmejian Wilderness Park, Montrose Shopping Park, and various neighborhood playgrounds and recreational facilities.
• Home Styles: Spanish Revival, Craftsman, and mid-century modern homes, with some newer developments adding to the mix.
• Community Vibe: Quiet, family-oriented, and suburban, with a strong sense of community and excellent amenities for families and children.

• Neighborhood Overview: Thousand Oaks is a suburban city located in the Conejo Valley, just outside of Los Angeles County. Known for its excellent schools, abundant parks, and safe environment, Thousand Oaks is a popular choice for families and those seeking a quieter lifestyle with access to nature. The area offers a mix of residential options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and some luxury properties. With its low crime rate, strong community feel, and proximity to shopping, dining, and outdoor activities, Thousand Oaks is an ideal suburban retreat.
• Average Home Price: $950,000
• Average Home Size: 2,500 sq. ft.
• Average $/Square Foot: $380
• School District: Conejo Valley Unified School District (CVUSD), known for its top-rated schools such as Westlake High School, Thousand Oaks High School, and Redwood Middle School.
• Walkability: Moderate; while the area is largely car-dependent, there are walkable sections, particularly near shopping centers, parks, and schools.
• Local Amenities: Thousand Oaks offers a variety of local amenities, including The Oaks Shopping Center, numerous parks like Conejo Creek North Park, and cultural attractions such as the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza. The city also has extensive hiking and biking trails, and is close to the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.
• Home Styles: The neighborhood features a mix of ranch-style homes, contemporary single-family residences, and townhomes, with some luxury estates in more secluded areas.
• Community Vibe: Family-friendly, safe, and community-oriented. Thousand Oaks offers a suburban lifestyle with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities, education, and family life.

• Neighborhood Overview: Santa Clarita is a large suburban city located in the northwestern part of Los Angeles County. Known for its family-friendly communities, good schools, and outdoor activities, Santa Clarita includes areas like Valencia and Canyon Country, offering a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the greater LA area.
• Average Home Price: $850,000
• Average Home Size: 2,200 sq. ft.
• Average $/sq. ft.: $386
• School District: William S. Hart Union High School District, with well-regarded schools such as Valencia High School and West Ranch High School.
• Walkability: Low to moderate; while the city is primarily car-dependent, areas like Valencia offer pedestrian-friendly paseos (walkways) connecting neighborhoods, parks, and shopping centers.
• Local Amenities: Six Flags Magic Mountain, Westfield Valencia Town Center, Santa Clarita Central Park, and extensive hiking and biking trails in the surrounding hills.
• Home Styles: Traditional single-family homes, modern townhomes, and master-planned communities, often with access to shared amenities like parks and pools.
• Community Vibe: Family-friendly, suburban, and community-focused, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities and a safe, welcoming environment.