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
Manya Prybyla,
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 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Van Nuys, CA over the last 12 months is $890,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Privately positioned at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in coveted Encino Hills, this beautifully remodeled residence offers refined California living. Set on a 10,012-square-foot lot with over 4,100 square feet of living space, the home has been extensively enhanced by the current owners, with nearly $250,000 invested in improvements since purchase. The resort-inspired backyard features a
Beautifully updated Encino residence offers sophisticated style, comfortable living, and exceptional versatility. The main home features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with warm wood floors. At the heart of the home is the remodeled kitchen, showcasing high-end Thermador appliances, elegant soapstone countertops, and contemporary finishes. The primary suite offers a walk-in closet, spa-inspired
Experience modern luxury living at its finest in this exceptional brand-new construction home! Defined by rich wood textures, organic natural stone and lofty ceilings, this open-concept floor plan showcases refined finishes and a meticulous attention to architectural detail. At the heart of the home lies a designer chef’s kitchen that boasts top-of-the-line appliances, a massive waterfall island
Nestled on a private street in the highly desirable Valley Glen neighborhood, this light, bright, and airy home is drenched in natural sunlight and offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. The remodeled kitchen opens to inviting living spaces designed for everyday living and entertaining. The home features two beautifully remodeled bathrooms, two fireplaces, and a stunning family room with
Welcome home to 7357 Anatola Avenue, a detached Lake Balboa gem in the 91406 corridor of the San Fernando Valley, offered at $729,000. This 2-bedroom, 1-bath home delivers 1,144 sq. ft. of light-filled living with your own walls and your own yard: no HOA, no shared walls.The floor plan flows easily between a formal living room, dining area, and family room anchored by a beamed ceiling and
Spacious Home on an Expansive Lot!Welcome to 6710 Calhoun Ave, a beautifully spacious home offering 3 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,848 sq ft of living space on an impressive 10,410 sq ft lot. With generous indoor and outdoor space, this property offers plenty of flexibility to fit your lifestyle; whether you need room for entertaining, hobbies, a home office, or future
Now reduced by $200,000! Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to own a beautifully updated traditional home on a quiet, tree-lined street south of Ventura Blvd. in one of Sherman Oaks' most sought-after neighborhoods. Enjoy the perfect blend of privacy and tranquility while being just a short stroll to Ventura Blvd.'s renowned restaurants, boutiques, cafés, and entertainment.Offering
A RARE, FULLY VACANT TWO-RESIDENCE INCOME PROPERTY WITH PROJECTED COMBINED RENT OF APPROXIMATELY $7,390 PER MONTH. No existing tenants, no existing leases, and no waiting for units to become available. The next owner can select tenants, establish rents, and put both residences to work immediately. Offered at $1,195,000 with projected annual gross income of approximately $88,680, the investment
Welcome to 17406 Valerio Street in Lake Balboa. This expanded 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers approximately 2,300+ square feet of living space and a versatile floor plan designed for modern living. The home features an open-concept layout with a spacious living area, large kitchen island, oversized tile flooring throughout the main living areas, and engineered wood flooring in the bedrooms. The
This delightful home, constructed in 2018, is perfectly located in the heart of Van Nuys. It boasts around 506 square feet of living space, with two bedrooms and one bathroom. The kitchen features stylish recessed lighting, and laminate flooring flows seamlessly throughout the entire home. Additional conveniences include hookups for a stackable washer and dryer, as well as central air
Great opportunity!!! HUGE price adjustment! Perched behind a private gate South of the Blvd, this light-filled retreat delivers the trifecta: comfort, privacy, and sweeping panoramic views. This spacious 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath residence spans over 3,500 square feet and impresses from the moment you step inside, with soaring ceilings, an open floorplan, and a series of balconies that frame
Welcome to this stunning 2025 manufactured home in Van Nuys, showcasing a fresh, modern design and quality finishes throughout. This 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offers approximately 640 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, exuding a clean, contemporary feel from the moment you step inside.The open-concept kitchen and living area create an inviting atmosphere for everyday
FULLY RENOVATED 3+2 HOME + PERMITTED 1+1 ADU + FUTURE EXPANSION POTENTIAL! Location Location Location!!Beautifully 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
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom townhome located in the gated Crestgate community of Panorama City. Privately situated as a rear unit with direct alley access, this residence offers enhanced privacy, convenience, and a peaceful setting, the thoughtfully designed floor plan features a bright and inviting living area that seamlessly connects to the dining space and kitchen,
This charming home, built in 2018, is ideally located in the heart of Van Nuys. With approximately 506 square feet, it offers two bedrooms and one bathroom. The kitchen features recessed lighting, while laminate flooring flows throughout the entire home. Additional amenities include stackable washer and dryer hookups, as well as central air conditioning and heating, with wiring for ceiling fans.
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
Location, location, location!! Easy access to Beverly Glen, Westwood, and Downtown! Rare find nestled in the hills of Sherman Oaks on a cul-de-sac street. Spectacular, split-level home. Beautiful new flooring and paint throughout. Step into the expansive bright living room with high vaulted ceilings, a dramatic decorative stone fireplace with french doors on either side. Spacious formal dining
At Via Avanti, everyday living is elevated through thoughtful design, timeless comfort, and the art of Italian-inspired hospitality. Our brand new one- and two-bedroom apartment homes capture the warmth and sophistication of Italian living, blending beautiful interiors, meaningful connections, and spaces designed for wellness and relaxation. From the moment you arrive, landscaped terraces and
Beautiful, luxury studio guest house completely self-contained in a peaceful residential neighborhood of Valley Glen. Unit features its own separate address and entrance. Enjoy a private gated patio that leads to a fenced-in grassy front yard. Fully equipped with all-new appliances, including a refrigerator, dishwasher, range/oven, microwave, and in-unit washer/dryer. High vaulted ceilings create
Welcome home to Burbank Gardens Apartments. Our apartments in Sherman Oaks, CA offer a comfortable and sophisticated living experience, allowing you to explore the unique and dynamic culture of the San Fernando Valley. Premium amenities, desirable services, and a well-connected location let you enjoy all the urban conveniences you desire without giving up the peace and quiet you deserve. Contact
TOP FLOOR light & bright REMODELED large one bedroom apartment in the heart of Lake Balboa. Open remodeled kitchen with lots of counter space and brand new appliances. There is also a spacious patio off the living room. Wood laminate floors throughout. Other features include central A/C, recessed lighting, a large walk-in shower and one assigned parking spot in a gated garage. Smaller 10 unit
Introducing Olive Encino, an elegant apartment community in the heart of Encino, just blocks from Ventura Boulevard with exceptional shopping, dining, entertainment, major employers, and easy access to the 101 Freeway. Come home to Olive Encino and live up to your expectations. All square footage is approximate and provided for informational purposes only. Actual dimensions and layouts may vary
Discounted Rent price of $2,700 for your first month! Welcome to a charming and unique 2BD/1BA Lake Balboa home offering a rare combination of privacy, outdoor space, and convenience. As the back house of a duplex with only one attached wall, this home features two private, gated patios that create the feel of both a front yard and backyard. Inside, enjoy real hardwood floors, central air & heat
Gilmore Apartments is an intimate community in the heart of Van Nuys, just minutes from the Sherman Oaks Galleria, dining, and entertainment, with easy access to major freeways. Enjoy relaxing by the pool or hosting a BBQ in the picnic area. Apartment homes feature air conditioning, ceiling fans, extra storage, and select units with hardwood-inspired floors and walk-in closets. Be centrally
Located behind private gates in one of Encino's most desirable South of Ventura Boulevard locations, this impressive Mediterranean estate offers exceptional privacy, grand scale living, and panoramic valley views. Built in 2009, the residence showcases timeless architecture and elegant finishes throughout. A dramatic two-story entry with custom wrought-iron double doors, soaring ceilings, and a
San Fernando's iconic and tallest residential tower! Panorama Tower offers newly renovated residential units with floor to ceiling windows, stunning views and top of the line amenities. Featuring a swimming pool, resident lounge and exterior gardens. Be amazed by the astounding view of the San Fernando Valley. With floor to ceiling windows, captivating views are within reach.*With one
Hidden behind private gates on a sprawling nearly half acre lot in the prestigious Royal Oaks enclave of Encino, this newer construction estate consists of a 5-bed, 7-bath main home and two-story guest/pool house. A dramatic double-height foyer sets the tone for the open-concept layout ahead, featuring chic designer finishes, lofty ceilings and natural light that floods the home from all angles.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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