Westchester
Relocation Guide
A comprehensive guide to living, buying, and investing in Westchester.
Welcome to Westchester
Located on the Westside of Los Angeles, Westchester offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Often described as a "hidden gem," it provides a strong sense of community, excellent amenities, and a strategic location that appeals to families, professionals, and students alike.
This guide is designed to provide a comprehensive overview for anyone considering a move to this vibrant Los Angeles neighborhood.
A Rich History
Originally a thriving agricultural area, Westchester transformed in the early 20th century with the development of the Los Angeles Airport (LAX). The arrival of Loyola University in 1928 further spurred housing demand, and by the 1940s, the community as we know it began to take shape.
This history has created a neighborhood with a diverse mix of architectural styles and a well-established, community-oriented feel.
The Westchester Lifestyle
Westchester is known for its friendly, small-town atmosphere within the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles. Residents enjoy tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and a strong sense of local pride. While not a highly walkable neighborhood due to its suburban layout, it offers easy access to a wide range of amenities and employment centers.
Community
Family-friendly with active neighborhood associations and community events.
Lifestyle
Laid-back and connected, with a balance of residential quiet and city access.
Proximity
Minutes from the beach, LAX, and major tech hubs.
Employment
Key employment centers include LAX, Silicon Beach, and Loyola Marymount University.
The Real Estate Market: A Neighborhood of Neighborhoods
Westchester is not a monolithic market. It is a collection of distinct sub-areas, each with its own character and market dynamics. Understanding these differences is key to finding the right fit.
2025 SFR Market Snapshot
One Westbluff
$3,366,500$842/sqft
Premium bluff-top enclave with large, newer homes.
North Kentwood
$2,389,000$974/sqft
Large homes on spacious lots; top-performing area for price growth.
South Kentwood
$1,797,500$944/sqft
Established neighborhood with a mix of original and remodeled homes.
West Westchester / Westport Heights
$1,690,000$923/sqft
Consistent, stable growth with a strong sense of community.
West Westchester / Loyola Village
$1,625,000$969/sqft
Popular with families and academics; smaller homes but high value per square foot.
Osage / Emerson Manor / Nielsen
$1,347,000$933/sqft
Diverse area with a mix of SFRs and attached properties; more affordable entry point.
Attached Properties
The market for condos and townhomes is concentrated in areas like Nielsen, offering a more accessible entry point to the Westchester market with a median price of $640,000 in 2025.
Education
Westchester is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and is home to several highly-regarded public, charter, and private schools.
Elementary Schools
Kentwood Elementary, Cowan Avenue Elementary, WISH Charter Elementary
Middle Schools
WISH Charter Middle, Wright STEAM Magnet
High Schools
Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnets, WISH Academy High School
Higher Education
Loyola Marymount University (LMU), Otis College of Art and Design
Amenities and Recreation
From parks and beaches to dining and shopping, Westchester offers a wealth of activities.
Parks and Outdoors
- Westchester Recreation Center: A hub of community activity with playgrounds, sports fields, and a skate park.
- Beaches: Minutes from the sands of Playa del Rey and Dockweiler Beach.
- Ballona Wetlands: A protected ecological reserve with hiking trails and bird-watching opportunities.
- Westchester Golf Course: A popular 18-hole public course.
Dining and Shopping
- Local Favorites: Ayara Thai, Truxton's American Bistro, and The Manchester offer a range of dining experiences.
- Shopping Centers: Westchester Town Center and Westchester Village provide convenient local shopping, with major centers like Westfield Culver City just a short drive away.
Transportation and Commuting
Westchester's location is one of its greatest assets.
LAX
The airport is located within the neighborhood, making it ideal for frequent travelers.
Freeways
Easy access to the 405 freeway connects residents to the greater Los Angeles area.
Public Transit
The LA Metro C Line provides rail access from the nearby Aviation/LAX station.
Is Westchester Right for You?
Westchester offers a unique combination of community, convenience, and value. Its diverse sub-areas provide options for a wide range of budgets and lifestyles, from the premium homes of One Westbluff to the more accessible condos in Nielsen.
If you are looking for a neighborhood with a strong community feel, excellent amenities, and a strategic Westside location, Westchester is an exceptional place to call home.
Westchester tends to be a strong fit for buyers who:
- •Value spacious lots and single-family homes
- •Prefer a suburban feel with city access
- •Want proximity to LAX and Silicon Beach
- •Appreciate strong schools and community events
It may be less ideal for buyers seeking:
- •Highly walkable urban environments
- •Newer construction and modern amenities
- •Beachfront or ocean-view properties
Explore More Westchester Resources
Dive deeper into the Westchester market with our detailed reports and guides.