Renting in the City of Angels: 1-Bedroom Apartments Offering a Great Bang for the Buck

Los Angeles is a city that needs no introduction. From the green hills of Hollywood to the gorgeous beaches of Malibu to the sleek opulence of Downtown, every area of this sprawling metropolis has its own unique character.

For renters, apartment-packed L.A. abounds in excellent housing options, no matter what your price point or particular living needs are. You may face some tough competition though, as vacancies are somewhat rare compared to other cities – which means a great deal is worth jumping on as soon as you discover it.

How much does a 1-bedroom apartment cost in Los Angeles?

The high demand for city apartments has also led to a massive increase in rent prices, with rents jumping 6.5% since 2014, according to Yardi Matrix. The average asking rent for one-bedroom apartments in Los Angeles is $1,766, lower than the average for all LA properties which sits somewhere around $1,940.

Higher costs are generally associated with homes in the upscale areas of the city, including West Hollywood, Downtown, and Westwood. For cheaper apartments, you might want to check out Koreatown, a vibrant enclave that holds great housing options for every taste and budget.

Spotlight on 1BR apartments: expect refreshing interiors, amazing vistas, amenity-rich environments

In L.A., you’ll find peaceful low-rise complexes, terraced communities, woodland retreats, palatial villas, futuristic lofts, and just about everything in between. Here are a few of the choicest one-bedroom options, which we’ve hand-selected for you.

1. APEX. The One, Downtown, $2,345, 897 Sq. Ft.

Surround yourself with the best LA has to offer at Apex.The One. These luxurious apartments come with a complete appliance package, expansive 10 to 14 ft ceilings, Caesarstone countertops, and gorgeous city views. Moreover, residents enjoy top-notch services and amenities including an outdoor lounge with fireplace, a sparkling pool, a complimentary Starbucks coffee bar, a private dog run / bark park, and more.

2. 1111 Wilshire Apartments, Westlake, $1,980, 602 Sq. Ft.

Step right into the sophistication of downtown living at this richly appointed contemporary complex. 1111 Wilshire apartments come with balconies and terraces that provide breathtaking views of the neighborhood, along with sleek interiors. The poolside lounge area offers an open-air kitchen, plus a spa and hot tub, and a saline pool. And with Downtown’s museums, concert venues, and nightlife just minutes away, you’ll always be near the heart of the city.

3. White Oak Terrace Apartments, Encino, $1,830, 1,069 Sq. Ft.

Looking for that carefree Valley lifestyle? Take advantage of a location close to the 101 freeway, yet hidden away on a quiet wooded street – welcome to the White Oak Terrace Apartments. Hardwood floors and granite countertops lend each apartment an upscale feel; and the onsite pool, fitness center, and classy BBQ area put your favorite activities right at your fingertips. With rents starting at just $1,830 for a one-bedroom at this pet-friendly complex, you’d be hard-pressed to a find a better deal in this affluent neighborhood which holds strong to its reputation as the “Bedroom of the Stars”.

4. Mariner’s Bay, Marina Del Rey, $1,825, 780 Sq. Ft.

Mariner’s Bay apartments will come as a fantastic option for those in love with the peacefulness of the ocean. Ideally located in the heart of Marina del Rey, the community offers spacious floorplans with exquisite Marina views, lovely patios or balconies, as well as volleyball and tennis courts, a fitness center, and a sparkling pool – pretty much all that it takes to enjoy LA living at its best.

5. CitiView Terrace Apartments, Valley Village, $1,785, 790 Sq. Ft.

If you’d rather get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown living yet be close to it all, the CitiView Terrace Apartments will give you that and more. A stone’s throw from the trendy NoHo Arts District, this community offers resort-style living with rents starting at $1,785 for an airy one-bedroom. Apartments feature vaulted ceilings, walk-in closets, and gourmet kitchens, as well as excellent views of the surrounding mountains. Community amenities include a heated pool and spa, a fitness center, a picnic area, and plenty of outdoor seating.

6. Playa Pacifica Apartments, Westchester, $1,745, 500 Sq. Ft.

Get close to the beach, but stay within easy reach of the city at the Playa Pacifica apartment community in beautiful Westchester. With carpeted floors, an all-electric kitchen and spacious walk-in closets, you’ll be living in style – and the complex’s resort-style pool, tennis courts, and billiards room will make sure you always have something to do when friends stop by. Rentals for one-bedrooms start at $1,745.

7. Topanga Canyon Apartments, West Hills, $1,350, 650 Sq. Ft.

Enjoy the peaceful luxury of the hills at a price that’s practically a steal at the Topanga Canyon Apartments. Granite countertops, hardwood flooring, and walk-in closets make these residences just as comfortable as those at more expensive complexes – while the outdoor BBQ area, swimming pool, and on-site laundry facilities bring convenience right to your doorstep. And with rents starting at just $1,350 for a one-bedroom, you’d have a hard time finding a better deal in the San Fernando Valley.

L.A. has plenty of incredibly wallet-friendly apartment deals to offer, as long as you know where to look. With RentCafe.com, you’ll always have the inside track on renting in the City of Angels.