The story of the San Fernando Valley begins with the story of Van Nuys. The most populous city in the Valley started as a humble ranch town before developing into a popular train stop in the 1910s, attracting more people and sparking the urbanization of the Valley. In 1932, Van Nuys City Hall, recognized for its art-deco exterior, was established as the seat of the Valley for the city of Los Angeles, earning its nickname as the heart of the Valley. Van Nuys is still the municipal center of the Valley, 17 miles from downtown LA, but it's better known for its palm tree-lined boulevard and cruisin' car culture.
The neighborhood has gained popularity as one of the more affordable options close to Studio City, home to Universal and Warner Bros. Studios. Folks getting started in LA can find more opportunities to rent a condo or townhouse here, in contrast to the multi-million-dollar estates just a few miles south in Sherman Oaks. Van Nuys is a relatively more affordable area that is right by North Hollywood,” says Pam Xu, Realtor and owner at Sunpride Realty with over 10 years of experience. “Rental rate is also relatively high.”
Van Nuys has great views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
There are a few bike paths throughout Van Nuys.
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Small ranch-styles and condos
Most Van Nuys residents rent their living spaces, with the neighborhood providing single-family homes, townhouses and condominiums throughout. Van Nuys houses are typically small to medium in size, featuring 1940s and 1950s bungalows, cottages, ranch styles and New Traditional homes sitting on residential streets with fenced-in yards. 1,000 square feet to 1,500 square feet single-family homes are usually around $500,000 to $800,000, and larger homes in more well-established communities may fetch $1.6 million. Sections of newer construction are scattered across the neighborhood, with several 3,000 square feet houses priced around $2 million. Two to three-bedroom townhouses are between $400,000 and $600,000, and the base point for a one-bedroom condo unit is around $300,000.
Cottages, generally close to each other, can be found in Van Nuys.
New traditional homes with two stories can fit a big family of one in Van Nuys.
Small to medium home options are also available in Van Nuys.
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Cruisin' culture in Van Nuys
A variety of events take place in Van Nuys annually, including the Encino Food & Wine Festival and the Spring Concert & Festival. Reflecting the area’s legacy of car culture, the Van Nuys Cruise Night takes place on Van Nuys Boulevard on the third Saturday of every month. This cultural practice started as early as the 1930s and came into prominence in the 1950s, which at the time inspired the namesake film, Van Nuys Blvd. Nowadays, the crews meet to appreciate their love for classic, personalized cars while they show them off and cruise down the streets of Van Nuys.
Safe cruise nights hosted along Van Nuys Blvd on weekend nights.
Bring your car for a cruise night along Van Nuys Blvd.
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Diverse eateries on the Boulevard
Van Nuys has a lively Asian and Latin American food scene, and popular restaurants include Mercado Buenos Aires for its rich Argentinian flavors, Ay Papa Que Rico and Ph? 999. Springbok Bar & Grill has happy hour and is a popular place to catch a sports game over drinks. Everyday necessities are also available within the neighborhood, including Costco and Walgreens. Residents may shop at the Encino farmers market at Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area or at Aldi and Ralphs. Just outside Van Nuys is The Plant Shopping Center, which hosts a movie theater and stores such as Old Navy, Home Depot and PetSmart.
Dine in and enjoy rich Argentinian flavors at Mercado Buenos Aires, in Van Nuys.
Enjoy the food trucks all around Van Nuys.
Ralph's is a local favorite for groceries in Van Nuys.
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Van Nuys Recreation Center and Lake Balboa offer recreation and fun
People can come to the Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Recreation Center for games or sports programs for tennis, soccer and basketball, as well as martial arts and dance lessons. Children may play in the park’s playground, and Van Nuys is also near the launching zone of the Los Angeles River Recreation Area for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. Anglers may also fish at Lake Balboa, which is also known as Anthony C. Beilenson Park. Lake Balboa is also popular for the Swan pedal boats, scenic hikes and for watching local wildlife. Nearby golf courses include the Van Nuys Golf Course and the Balboa Golf Course, and families may visit The Japanese Garden for the seasonal blooms, the stone arrangements and the bird path.
Enjoy a game of basketball at Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Recreation Center.
Bring your fishing gear and you might can a fish in Lake Balboa.
A sports field with artificial turf at the Van Nuys Recreation Center.
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Seven miles to Studio City
Folks looking to work in Hollywood's film industry often look in Van Nuys as a starting point because of its proximity to Studio City. Residents can drive across the neighborhood blocks or hop on Route 170 for a 7-mile drive to Studio City, which can take 25 to 45 minutes, depending on the traffic. LA commuters have a 17-mile drive on Route 101 to downtown, but the incredibly congested traffic can make the drive take anywhere from 40 minutes to two hours. The traffic is so famously bad that locals say "free hour" instead of "rush hour," referring to the brief windows when the freeways aren't backed up.
Los Angeles Unified School District
Students in Van Nuys attend the Los Angeles Unified School District, which is rated a B-plus overall by Niche. The schools within Van Nuys aren't highly ranked; most are graded a C or B-minus, but Van Nuys Senior High is an A. Kids do have the convenience of being able to walk just a few blocks to their elementary, middle and high schools from nearly anywhere in the neighborhood.
Van Nuys Elementary School serves around 450 students in Van Nuys.
Van Nuys Senior High is a
Public High School in
Van Nuys, CA.
Van Nuys Middle School provides education in nearby Van Nuys.
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Long-term droughts and crime
The hot and dry climate in this region of Southern California is prone to extended periods without rainfall, thus leading to long-term droughts. During droughts, residents are required to abide by water usage restrictions and are encouraged to conserve water at all times in preparation for droughts. Locals may also experience some noise from Van Nuys Airport, next to the city. However, it's private, so planes aren't constantly landing and taking off. On average, the city has one of the higher crime rates in the Valley, with a CAP Index score of five out of ten. The southern part of the neighborhood near Sherman Oaks has the least reported incidents.
Written By
Meridith Ingram
Photography Contributed By
Piter Beyt
Video By
Vladislav Sedykh
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Josh Stein-Sapir,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Van Nuys, CA sell after 39 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Van Nuys, CA over the last 12 months is $896,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Exquisitely updated contemporary ranch home fully redesigned for modern living and set behind gates. This complete gut out remodel features soaring ceilings, skylights, and expansive open-concept living spaces filled with natural light. Fully modernized while preserving the home's original architectural integrity, the property offers a true turnkey experience. Designed for entertaining, the home
Located within a private, intimate gated enclave, 16523 Esprit Lane in Encino presents a rare opportunity to own a spacious pool home offering privacy, flexibility, and prime Valley convenience. This 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom Encino residence features a well-designed floor plan ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Sun-filled interiors, generous living areas, and well-proportioned bedrooms
Stephanie Payab
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Lovely Spacious Condo in the Heart of Encino. High Vaulted Ceilings Fireplace, Extra Large Living Room, Several Large Closets, Engineered Hard Wood Flooring, Upgraded Kitchen with Granite Counter Tops and Custom Made Cabinets, Stainless Steal Refrigerator, Stainless steal Gas Stove, Unit is one of the larger and very spacious units with - Side by Side Parking, Walking distance to Ventura Blvd
Welcome to this beautifully upgraded 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom with large Bonus room residence that perfectly blends contemporary sophistication with timeless Sherman Oaks charm. Every detail of this completely remodeled home has been thoughtfully curated to highlight both elegance and comfort. Bathed in natural sunlight, the home showcases original oak hardwood floors, a breathtaking double-sided
Exquisitely updated contemporary ranch home fully redesigned for modern living and set behind gates. This complete gut out remodel features soaring ceilings, skylights, and expansive open-concept living spaces filled with natural light. Fully modernized while preserving the home's original architectural integrity, the property offers a true turnkey experience. Designed for entertaining, the home
Located within a private, intimate gated enclave, 16523 Esprit Lane in Encino presents a rare opportunity to own a spacious pool home offering privacy, flexibility, and prime Valley convenience. This 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom Encino residence features a well-designed floor plan ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Sun-filled interiors, generous living areas, and well-proportioned bedrooms
Stephanie Payab
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Pristine 3-bed/2-bath traditional home that has been loved & cared for. A light-filled, spacious living room with hardwood floors is open to a fully equipped gourmet kitchen with a stunning center island, stainless steel appliances, and immaculate cabinetry. The formal dining area with a custom tufted banquette, vaulted ceiling, and fireplace creates a cozy ambiance that is sure to impress family
Recently remodeled 2 bedroom 2 bath single family home in Lake Balboa. Additional den can possibly be converted into a third bedroom. Detached garage can possibly be converted to an ADU, generating extra income. Please check with city. Buyer to do their own due diligence. Gated with good size front yard and backyard for added privacy. There are several fruit trees. Pomegranate, Avocado, Orange,
Lovely Spacious Condo in the Heart of Encino. High Vaulted Ceilings Fireplace, Extra Large Living Room, Several Large Closets, Engineered Hard Wood Flooring, Upgraded Kitchen with Granite Counter Tops and Custom Made Cabinets, Stainless Steal Refrigerator, Stainless steal Gas Stove, Unit is one of the larger and very spacious units with - Side by Side Parking, Walking distance to Ventura Blvd
Welcome to this stunning south-of-the-boulevard gated estate, sitting on over one flat acre in the heart of Encino. As the dramatic gates open, you’re greeted by a 30-car cobblestone motor court that sets the tone for this 9,200 sq. ft. residence.To the south, you’ll find a lit sports court striped for pickleball — the perfect spot for daily matches and weekend fun. The front-facing four-car
Stephanie Payab
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
This centrally located Lake Balboa condominium offers a comfortable and practical living space within a well established community in the heart of the San Fernando Valley. This single level unit with convenient elevator access features a functional layout with 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms and provides approximately 1,514 square feet of interior space. The home includes carpet throughout for a
Elevated living awaits in this beautifully reimagined home, set on a gated corner lot in the coveted Chandler Estates neighborhood of Sherman Oaks. Inside, an inviting open concept floor plan features a spacious living/family room and formal dining room that flows seamlessly into the designer chef’s kitchen, equipped with top-of-the-line Thermador appliances, an oversized island with seating and
Welcome to 14109 W Birch Ln, a contemporary 3-story townhome offering the perfect blend of elegance and practicality in one of the San Fernando Valley's most convenient locations. Featuring 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and 1,520 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, this residence showcases modern updates and refined finishes throughout. Step inside to discover an inviting open-concept
VIEWS, VIEWS, VIEWS define this stylish 1964 Mid-Century Modern Encino Hills home showcasing classic Spielman-Fond architecture and a coveted single story floor plan with 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms and evan a full size den. Enjoy peace of mind with a newer roof, new electrical panel, newer windows, electric car charger and ownership of a huge solar panel system. Enter through a lush private
THIS BEAUTIFUL 2-BEDROOM, 1-BATH HOME APPEARS TO HAVE MANY UPGRADES. YOU ' LL WALK INTO THE INVITING LIVING ROOM AND TOTALLY PICTURE YOURSELF LIVING HERE. THIS HOME IS IN MOVE-IN CONDITION, A DEFINITE, PRETTY HOME. HAS CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING, LAUNDRY IN PLACE, TANKLESS WATER HEATER, AND MORE, CLOSE TO SHOPPING, GREAT RESTAURANTS, AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION. SUBJECT TO PARK MANAGEMENT APPROVAL.
Charming mid-century home in the desirable Hidden Woods neighborhood of Sherman Oaks. Available for lease for the first time in 50 years, this lovingly cared-for home is filled with original character and timeless style.A welcoming teak-paneled entry with a skylit vaulted ceiling leads to a sunken living room with soaring ceilings and beautiful natural light, creating that classic mid-century
Amalia Khachikian
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Situated on a peaceful cul-de-sac in a highly sought-after Sherman Oaks neighborhood, this turnkey home has been tastefully updated inside and out. Natural light floods the open and inviting floor plan, highlighting the charming details and timeless character found throughout. At the heart of the home lies the designer chef’s kitchen, equipped with premium stainless-steel appliances, quartz
Spacious first floor STUDIO apartment located in a secured gated complex in the Valley Glen area of Van Nuys! New paint, newer flooring. Walk into the large open living space. Separate kitchen area with small breakfast nook. Large closet that leads to the bathroom with single vanity and tub/shower combo. Large patio accessible via slider looks over the open center courtyard. Private gated parking
Spacious second floor STUDIO apartment located in a secured gated complex in the Valley Glen area of Van Nuys! New paint, newer flooring. Walk into the large open living space. Separate kitchen area with small breakfast nook. Large closet that leads to the bathroom with single vanity and tub/shower combo. Large balcony accessible via slider looks over the open center courtyard. Private gated
Tucked into the heart of Sherman Oaks within the highly sought-after Kester Avenue Elementary School District, this beautifully maintained single-family home offers a thoughtful balance of comfort, privacy, and effortless California living. A well-designed split-bedroom layout places two bedrooms and a full bathroom on each side of the home, creating ideal separation for everyday living. The
This is a brand-new 2BR townhome in the middle of a four-unit building complex, completed in 2024, with an open living and dining area defined by large windows that bring in plenty of daylight. The kitchen features a quartz waterfall island, stainless-steel appliances, and a simple subway-tile backsplash. The primary bedroom includes an en-suite bathroom with a dual sink and a glass shower over
Welcome to this magnificent apartment in the heart of Sherman Oaks. Ideally located just steps from Ventura Boulevard’s shops and restaurants, and close to award winning schools, this beautifully updated unit offers the best of convenience and comfort. The unit has been meticulously renovated with a newer kitchen, updated bathrooms, and new flooring throughout. This unit offers two private patios
$2,400 Rent – Move-In Special for Feb 15 Occupancy (Price Reflects Promotion). Single-Family Home | 3 Bed | 2 Bath | Private Backyard. Partially furnished single-family residence offering 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, including a primary suite. Features include central A/C and heat, recessed lighting, modern finishes, and in-unit laundry hookups. Open living area with natural light and a functional
Luxury Living South of the Blvd | Prime Sherman Oaks Estate. Experience the pinnacle of sophisticated living in this stunning 5-bedroom residence, perfectly positioned in a highly coveted enclave South of the Boulevard. Designed with grand-scale entertaining in mind, the home boasts soaring high ceilings, four elegant fireplaces, and a seamless open-concept floor plan. The gourmet kitchen serves
Move-In Special Feb 15 – $1,800 Rent Credit Applied(Reflected on advertised price) Brand-New ADU | 3 Bed | 2 Bath | Cozy Private Side Yard | In-Unit Laundry | Central A/C & Heat | EV Charging | Recessed Lighting | Modern Finishes | 1 Parking | Prime Van Nuys Location. Brand-new 3-bedroom, 2-bath ADU featuring a primary suite, open living area with natural light, and modern finishes throughout.
Tucked at the end of a peaceful cul-de-sac in Lake Encino, this home combines warmth, comfort, and incredible Valley views. Step inside to a dramatic two-story entry with a curved staircase and rich walnut floors that carry throughout. The open layout flows easily from the chef's kitchen with a large island, walk-in pantry, and top-of-the-line Stainless Steel Thermador appliances into the family
Welcome to this well-maintained 2 bedroom, 1bath home located on Martha Street in Encino. Situated in a quiet, established neighborhood, this property offers comfort, functionality, and a convenient location near parks, shopping, dining, and family-friendly activities.The home features a well-designed layout with an open living and dining area, enhanced by brand-new interior and exterior
Stephanie Payab
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
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