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
Mary Ann Garcia Berges,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Van Nuys, CA sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Van Nuys, CA over the last 12 months is $880,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Stunning single story home completed in 2018, offering the quality and craftsmanship of newer construction with modern design and high-end finishes throughout. Originally taken down to the foundation and rebuilt, this home is far from a typical remodel, delivering a true custom feel with thoughtful attention to detail. Featuring 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms across approximately 2,300 square feet,
FULLY RENOVATED HOME + PERMITTED ADU + FUTURE EXPANSION POTENTIALBeautifully and meticulously renovated single-level home tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined cul-de-sac in one of Lake Balboa’s most desirable neighborhoods. This light-filled 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers approximately 1,277 square feet of thoughtfully upgraded living space on an expansive 7,000+ square foot lot.Nearly
Single-level 3BD/3BA ~1,500 SF condo in prime Sherman Oaks (91401) with a modern layout and a true move-in ready. High ceilings, an open-concept living/dining area, wood-style flooring, recessed lighting, and a private balcony. Kitchen with stone counters and stainless appliances. Energy-efficient upgrades include Nest thermostat, LED lighting, dual-pane windows, and a tankless water heater.
? Key Features? Highlighted: Outdoor Space: A rare 600 sq. ft. private terrace plus two additional balconies. Indoor spave 1643 sq/ft.? Layout: Cathedral ceilings, a spiral staircase, and a loft with a half-bath, can be converted into a third bedroom? Peace of Mind: The description specifically mentions the balconies/terrace were recently resealed to prevent water intrusion for the
Ideally located in one of Encino’s most desirable pockets, in close proximity to Ventura Boulevard, this top floor condominium offers an ideal blend of comfort, style, and convenience. Spanning approximately 1,266 square feet, the residence features two spacious bedrooms and two bathrooms with a layout that feels both functional and inviting. Inspired by a sophisticated city-chic aesthetic, the
5316 Lennox Ave | Sherman Oaks | Contemporary Luxury in Chandler Estates. Welcome to this luxurious masterpiece in the heart of Sherman Oaks' Chandler Estates. This stunning contemporary residence combines cutting-edge design with luxurious living. The main house features 4 bedrooms, including 3 upstairs with en-suite bathrooms, while downstairs bedroom can serve as an office or maid's quarters.
Stunning single story home completed in 2018, offering the quality and craftsmanship of newer construction with modern design and high-end finishes throughout. Originally taken down to the foundation and rebuilt, this home is far from a typical remodel, delivering a true custom feel with thoughtful attention to detail. Featuring 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms across approximately 2,300 square feet,
Located on a quiet cul-de-sac, this inviting 2800+ sq ft 4 Bedroom +3 Bath traditional two-story home offers a spacious and open floor plan designed for comfortable living and entertaining. The main areas include a living room with high ceilings, a family room with a fireplace that flows seamlessly into the expansive center-island kitchen, complete with stainless steel appliances, a five-burner
Fantastic split-level townhouse in Encino offers over 1,700 square feet of living space with the privacy and convenience of a direct-access two-car garage. From the moment you enter, warm wood floors create an inviting ambiance that carries throughout the home. The thoughtfully designed layout provides both openness and separation, ideal for comfortable everyday living and easy entertaining. The
Welcome to a truly special opportunity to own a legal gated two-residence property on one lot, featuring two fully remodeled, detached homes located side by side, (14722 & 14724 Strathern), each with its own private entrance and plenty of parking. This thoughtfully laid-out property offers comfort, privacy, and flexibility for a variety of living and investment needs. The main home features 3
Michael Rescigno
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
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,
Short sale. Subject to lender approval. Tucked at the end of a peaceful cul-de-sac in Lake Encino, this home blends California comfort with timeless style and sweeping Valley views. The two-story entry with a curved staircase and rich walnut floors sets the tone for what's inside. The open layout connects the chef's kitchen, complete with Thermador appliances, a large island, and walk-in pantry,
FULLY RENOVATED HOME + PERMITTED ADU + FUTURE EXPANSION POTENTIALBeautifully and meticulously renovated single-level home tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined cul-de-sac in one of Lake Balboa’s most desirable neighborhoods. This light-filled 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers approximately 1,277 square feet of thoughtfully upgraded living space on an expansive 7,000+ square foot lot.Nearly
Welcome to this hidden gem in the desirable Valley Glen area of Van Nuys! This Condominium is located in a quaint and private complex with only nine units, offering a rare sense of community and privacy.Inside, you’ll find a spacious layout featuring a cozy living room with a fireplace perfect for relaxing evenings at home. The two bedrooms are on the second floor. The unit is also equipped
Tucked away in the heart of Encino, this thoughtfully refreshed one-bedroom, one-bath residence offers a refined blend of style and comfort. The open layout is anchored by a beautifully reimagined kitchen with stainless steel appliances, seamlessly connecting to an expansive living area highlighted by vaulted ceilings and a warm fireplace, an inviting space for both everyday living and
Located in the center of the San Fernando Valley, Citrus Commons is a new creative campus to live, work, and play. Citrus Commons is the most walkable and bikeable campus in Sherman Oaks with 3.75 acres of accessible open space and a balance of residential and community services. Neighborhood-serving restaurants, retail and wireless connectivity will make this campus a place to interact with
Beautifully renovated, two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment on the ground floor (Level 1) with an in-unit washer and dryer in a prime Encino location—just north of Balboa Golf Course and minutes from Ventura Boulevard’s cafés, restaurants, and boutique fitness studios. Unit 101 is on the ground level.This unit features an open-concept living area with hardwood floors, a modern kitchen with
****Luxury units Available now! Reserve Your Apartment Today, and receive up to 2-months free on your lease!**** The Brightly is situated in the rapidly developing area of Van Nuys, right next to Sherman Oaks. It offers luxury apartment homes in a modern community with top-tier amenities. The community provides easy access to the 405 and 101 freeways, as well as dining and entertainment
Magnolia Apartments in Sherman Oaks, CA offers the neighborhood you want with the amenities you need. Enjoy a relaxing pool, poolside BBQs, fitness center, clubhouse, fire pit, and parcel lockers. Disclaimer: Some images may be digitally altered or virtually staged. Original, unaltered photos are available on this property's website. Apartment features include air conditioning, gas stoves, and
Newly built and thoughtfully designed, this 3-bedroom, 3-bath ADU in desirable Valley Glen offers approximately 1,200 sq ft of modern living space across two levels. The bright open floor plan is enhanced by high ceilings and recessed lighting, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere throughout. Contemporary finishes and stainless steel appliances elevate the kitchen, which flows seamlessly into
At Brookside Terrace Apartments, you'll find a selection of contemporary studios, one, and two-bedroom apartments in Encino, CA. We offer different floor plans to choose from. These move-in ready homes come with all the modern features you are looking for! A patio or balcony, air conditioning, redesigned interiors, and an in-unit washer/ dryer are just a few things youll enjoy.
Nestled on Lower Dixie Canyon 6 minutes from Harvard Westlake HighSchool and 15 minutes from HW Middle School, this light-filled multi-level home sits on a unique triangular lot surrounded by natural forested land with no direct neighbors to the south or west--offering exceptional privacy and serenity.Thoughtfully designed half-levels and spacious landings create a comfortable flow throughout.
Oxnard Apartments offers spacious one, two & three bedroom apartment homes in a super convenient San Fernando Valley location. You'll love the close proximity to shopping, dining, and easy freeway access. Live up to your expectations, come home to 13719 Oxnard Apartments. You'll love the close proximity to shopping, dining, and easy freeway access. Live up to your expectations.If you are
Single-story home for lease in prime Encino, located south of Ventura Blvd. Property includes a permitted 1-bedroom, 1-bath ADU with a private entrance and washer/dryer, suitable for extended family, guests, or a home office. The main house is approximately 2,440 sq ft, this residence offers 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with a bright, open floor plan designed for comfortable living and
IMT 6500 is a welcoming oasis in the middle of LA’s bustling city life with fully-equipped kitchens with stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops, along with Nest thermostats, in-home washers & dryers and keyless home access. Every interior is more stunning than the last, complete with modern features and sophisticated finishes. Yes, you read that right. Community amenities like IMT
Nestled in the hills of Encino, this custom built home offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Valley and surrounding mountains. Double doors open to reveal a grand foyer with an elegant spiraling staircase. The gourmet kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, a center island and opens to the family room, which boasts a set of french doors that lead out to the backyard. Rounding
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