L.A. is just over 500 square miles and contains about five counties worth of residents in the metro area. So, it may come as no surprise that few people walk to get to where they’re going. Public transportation is available, courtesy of LA Metro. The system offers travel by bus, mini shuttle, and even a light rail system. However, it’s still expanding its reach within the metro area. Thus, travel by personal car is pretty big in this SoCal spot (with high average gas prices to match). If you plan on driving like so many Angelenos, it’s wise to set your expectations accordingly. Plus, you’ll need to get your vehicle tested for emissions as a new resident and once every other year in L.A. Smog is a pretty big deal in the city, so testing emissions is key. Also, getting from one part of the city to another is not typically a short commute. For instance, a drive from Santa Monica to Downtown L.A. could have you behind the wheel for over an hour, even though the two locations are only about 15 miles apart.

It’s not all bright lights and red carpets in this star-studded southern California city. Getting out into nature is something many Angelenos and visitors to the area do regularly. And, there may just be a hiking trail for anyone who traverses these parts. Many of them are easy to moderate, so you won’t have to worry if you’re new to nature hiking. Plus, it may allow you to see a different side of Los Angeles. For instance, the 3-mile Runyon Canyon loop will run you past million-dollar properties and fantastic views of the Hollywood sign. You can also take your boots in the direction of the oft-featured Bronson Canyon, which served as the backdrop to many scenes in Invasion of the Body Snatchers and even the 1960s Batman TV series. If your legs must lead to a body of water, several trails offer views and proximity to lakes and waterfalls. So, dress in layers and pack your water bottle for a day hike adventure.

Being the home of Hollywood and big-time entertainment, you may expect that residing in the City of Angels isn’t cheap. And, you would be correct, however, there’s a bit more to it than that. Let’s start with housing costs. Over half of Angelenos rent their homes(63% to be exact). The average cost of rent for an apartment in LA is $2,786 a month with an average square footage of 789 square feet. However, that monthly cost can vary widely based on the neighborhood you settle down in. Vermont Knolls and Vermont Vista have below-average monthly rents at about $1,522 a month. On the higher end, Historic South-Central, University Park, and North of Montana neighborhoods range in rents between $4,530 to $4,622. If you’re in the market to purchase, you can join the 37% of city residents who have found the median home cost to currently be around $891,820. Much like apartments, those prices can range quite a bit depending on location and size.

L.A may be well known for the glitz and glamor, but it can throw down for a game, too. No need to be worried you won’t be able to root for the home team, there are some big players in many professional leagues. It’s such a big city that it’s got more than one team per league in some cases. Got “Take me out to the ball game” stuck in your head? Grab some tickets to cheer on the L.A. Dodgers at Elysian Park or the Los Angeles Angels at Angels Stadium in Anaheim (just about 30 miles away). If you like it hot or cold, you can visit the Staples Center in your L.A. Lakers (NBA) or L.A. Clippers (NBA) gear OR sit rinkside to cheer on the L.A. Kings (NHL) as they score on the ice. Fans of American football have their choice of supporting the Rams or Chargers (NFL). But if you are particular to football (soccer), then you’ll want to get your kicks at an L.A. Galaxy or Los Angeles Football Club match. There’s a team for everyone in L.A. to root for. If you’re a good sport though, they’re all your home teams.ce.