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Santa Monica, Los Angeles: Neighborhood Guide for Expats

Beachside paradise with the iconic pier, Third Street Promenade, and perfect weather year-round.

Commute to Center

40 min

car

Safety Rating

4/5

Safe

Vibe

beachupscalewellness

Rent Prices in Santa Monica

Monthly rent in USD ($). First-hand contracts are directly with the landlord or housing company. Second-hand (sublet) contracts are typically more expensive.

Apartment SizeFirst-Hand RentSecond-Hand Rent
1 Bedroom$2,800 - $3,200/mo$3,200 - $3,700/mo
2 Bedrooms$3,500 - $4,000/mo$4,000 - $4,600/mo
3 Bedrooms$4,500 - $5,500/mo$5,200 - $6,300/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is rent in Santa Monica, Los Angeles?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Santa Monica costs $3,200 - $3,700/month (second-hand contract) or $2,800 - $3,200/month (first-hand). A 2-bedroom ranges from $4,000 - $4,600/month, and a 3-bedroom from $5,200 - $6,300/month.
Is Santa Monica safe for expats?
Santa Monica has a safety rating of 4/5 (Safe). It is generally considered a safe area for expats and families.
How long is the commute from Santa Monica to Los Angeles center?
The commute from Santa Monica to Los Angeles city center takes approximately 40 minutes by car.
What is Santa Monica like to live in?
Beachside paradise with the iconic pier, Third Street Promenade, and perfect weather year-round. The neighborhood is known for being beach, upscale, wellness.

Other Neighborhoods in Los Angeles

Downtown LA

5 min metro to center

1BR from $2,700/mo

urbanartsynightlife

Silver Lake

20 min car to center

1BR from $2,500/mo

hipstercreativecafes

Venice

35 min car to center

1BR from $3,000/mo

bohemianbeacheclectic

Pasadena

30 min metro to center

1BR from $2,500/mo

historicsuburbancultural

Culver City

30 min metro to center

1BR from $2,700/mo

creativetech-adjacentwalkable

Long Beach

45 min metro to center

1BR from $2,100/mo

beachaffordablediverse

Koreatown

15 min metro to center

1BR from $2,200/mo

foodienightlifeaffordable

Highland Park

25 min metro to center

1BR from $2,200/mo

trendyartsygentrifying

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Updated Jan 2026

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© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Jan 2026 rent data