What You Can Rent for $2,000 a Month in Los Angeles

Average rents across the U.S. are picking up speed, reaching an all-time high of $1,155 a month as of July 2015, according to a recent Yardi Matrix report. And there are no signs of a slowdown, especially in the nation’s largest and busiest cities.

Both apartments and houses for rent in Los Angeles are, undoubtedly, some of the least affordable in the nation. However, the bustling city boasts an impressive percentage of renters (52% of Angelenos depend on rental housing, according to a UCLA study). They have to compete for a low inventory of reasonably priced units, even though new developments are on their way. Average apartment rents are set to skyrocket, heading steadily towards the $2,000 a month milestone, almost double the national average.

Since demand is on the rise, finding a budget-friendly apartment can be tough, but not impossible. Below is our selection of five hand-picked rental options in L.A. that explore what you might get for $2,000 a month in various neighborhoods throughout the city:

1. Palm Royale Apartments, Palms: $2,020/month for a studio (750 Sq. Ft.)

Studio, Palm Royale Apartments, Los Angeles. Image via RentCafe

If you’re looking for a modern residential enclave in L.A., the Palm Royale Apartments is a great destination. The gated community is conveniently located at 3420 South Sepulveda Blvd.,  in the sought-after Palms neighborhood. The complex caters to exclusive tastes, offering its renters not only pool, spa, and sauna facilities, but also a renovated fitness center and breathtaking views of West L.A. from the rooftop sundeck.

For around $2,000/month you can rent a stylish furnished studio or a 1-bedroom apartment, featuring high-class amenities such as a private balcony or patio, energy-efficient appliances, large walk-in closets, and a lovely fireplace. With great schools, shopping, and fine restaurants nearby, this is a perfect setting in which to live and play.

2. The Plaza at Sherman Oaks, Sherman Oaks: $1,995/month for a 1-bed apartment (700 Sq. Ft.)

1-bedroom apartment, The Plaza at Sherman Oaks. Image via RentCafe

Located in the highly rated Sherman Oaks School District, close to freeways, shopping, and dining venues, The Plaza at Sherman Oaks is an elegant community, appealing to lifestyle renters. From studios to villa floor plans, these modern units provide fireplaces, all electric kitchens, and mirrored doors that create a spacious feel. With a refreshing swimming pool, a sun deck, a 29-seat screening room, tennis and basketball courts, billiard, and fitness center – this is both a relaxing and exciting place to live in. The community also includes controlled parking and building access, offering friendly luxury in the City of Angels.

3. The Jessica Apartments, Hollywood: $2,126/month for a 1-bed apartment (665 Sq. Ft.)

1-bedroom apartment, The Jessica Apartments. Image via RentCafe

If it’s a taste of Hollywood you are after, then the Jessica Apartments complex is right up your alley, located between Hollywood and Sunset Boulevard. At approximately 700 square feet, the one-bedroom/one-bath units provide cozy fireplaces, dishwashers, and private balconies and patios. Enjoy the incredible sights from the rooftop pool and hot tub, or take a walk to the many famous restaurant or shops nearby. Not only is this complex close to public transportation, it also has assigned parking available. Set your home in one of the hippest and trendiest neighborhoods of L.A..

4. Kingsley Drive Apartments, Koreatown: $2,040/month for a 2-bed apartment (940 Sq. Ft.)

2-bedroom apartment, Kingsley Drive Apartments, Los Angeles. Image via RentCafe

If you need a larger unit, but you still want to keep your budget under the $2,000 limit, there are fewer options, since the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in LA is $2,500 (according to Yardi Matrix data). Still, with a thorough research, you can find the right place.

Located at 737 South Kingsley Drive in Koreatown, the pet-friendly community covers all the in-unit and outdoor amenities checklist. Residents of Kingsley Drive can relax by the sparkling swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna. Furthermore, the outdoor facilities include a cozy golf putting green and friendly picnic areas. The apartments are comfortable, featuring vertical blinds, mirrored closet doors, and fireplaces.

5. Villa Park Apartments, Lake Balboa: $2,025 for a 3-bed apartment (1,115 Sq. Ft.)

3-bedroom apartment, Villa Park, Los Angeles. Image via RentCafe

3-bedroom apartments within $2,000 a month are usually available further away from the hustle and bustle of Downtown L.A.. Located in the Lake Balboa neighborhood, close to Lake Balboa Park and Golf Course, as well as to the Encino Market Place, Villa Park Apartments is a rent controlled community focusing on providing a comfortable and secure living for its residents. Inside the gated complex, you can relax by the pool or invite friends for a barbecue. All units are equipped with gourmet kitchens, lots of storage space, ceramic tile flooring, and energy saving dishwashers. Easy commute options to downtown are another major plus for Villa Park’s renters.

Due to the city’s soaring rents, a $2,000 monthly budget will rent you mostly studios and one- or two-bed apartments. Stay tuned for more special picks of L.A.’s apartments at different rates or start browsing more moderately priced L.A. rental communities featured on RentCafe.