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
Barbara Radke,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Van Nuys, CA sell after 39 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, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This truly special and one-of-a-kind property offers a rare opportunity to own a home that has been lovingly maintained and cherished for the past 46 years. From the moment you arrive, the inviting double-lane driveway welcomes you in, setting the stage for the warmth and character found throughout. Here is your chance! Upon entry, you are greeted by a beautiful dining room with soaring,
Perched on a rare hilltop lot of over half an acre, this breathtaking single-story Mid-Century Modern residence, designed by esteemed Beverly Hills architect John P. Pedersen, has been extensively reimagined to deliver an exceptional standard of refined living. Set behind a double-gated entry, the property captures sweeping canyon, hillside, and treetop views from its private promontory setting,
Situated on a quiet tree-lined street in one of Encino's most coveted neighborhoods, this turnkey single-story home has been beautifully remodeled and completely reimagined. Natural light floods the open-concept floor plan, highlighting the wide-plank European oak hardwood floors and lofty ceilings found throughout. At the heart of the home, the designer chef’s kitchen features a stunning 8 foot
Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a stunning traditional estate in the prestigious Lake Encino communityoffered at an unbeatable price. Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this elegant 6-bedroom, 7-bathroom home boasts nearly 4,500 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, with breathtaking panoramic views of the San Fernando Valley. Behind private gates, a brick-lined
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.
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
? 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
This truly special and one-of-a-kind property offers a rare opportunity to own a home that has been lovingly maintained and cherished for the past 46 years. From the moment you arrive, the inviting double-lane driveway welcomes you in, setting the stage for the warmth and character found throughout. Here is your chance! Upon entry, you are greeted by a beautiful dining room with soaring,
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
Step inside and you’re immediately welcomed by a bright open floor plan that creates a seamless flow between the living and dining spaces. Just ahead, the kitchen serves as the centerpiece of the home, featuring a chef’s layout with a five burner oven, built-in microwave, wine cooler, and a spacious walk-in pantry—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Continuing through the home,
Situated in the coveted Chandler Estates neighborhood of Sherman Oaks, this new development home offers an inviting open-concept floor plan with lofty vaulted ceilings that carry throughout. Designed for modern living, the spacious living and dining area flows seamlessly into a beautifully appointed chef's kitchen outfitted with top-of-the-line appliances, sleek custom cabinetry and a stunning
Tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined street in the heart of Sherman Oaks, this privately gated newer construction estate redefines the standard for modern luxury. The open-concept floor plan is highlighted by lofty ceilings and expansive walls of glass that flood the space with warm natural light. At the heart of the home lies a designer chef’s kitchen equipped with top-of-the-line Miele
A private, gated, off-the-main-street, secluded property with amazing panoramic city and canyon views. A must see! Beautiful single-story contemporary home offering peace and serenity with an indoor/outdoor lifestyle. This home has been thoughtfully updated with a designer's eye, featuring large rooms, high ceilings, and walls of windows to highlight the jetliner views. The light-filled main
Gated traditional home showcasing design and style throughout, combining quality materials, custom craftsmanship, and thoughtful details. Light and airy with wide plank hardwood flooring, plantation shutters, built-in bookshelves, and a mantled fireplace. There are two bedrooms plus an optional third bedroom, complete with a closet and second fireplace, ideal for a home office or guest room. The
The home you've been waiting for has just hit the market. This stunning 3-bedroom Valley Glen residence delivers an exceptional blend of comfort, style, and modern upgrades. Hardwood floors run throughout and skylight tubes fill the living room with natural light. Thoughtful details like custom hallway wainscoting and accent ceiling beams add warmth and character. The living room centers around a
Be the first to enjoy this newly constructed detached ADU offering modern design and comfortable living in a prime Encino location. This beautifully finished 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence features approximately 840 sq ft with 9-foot ceilings, an open-concept layout, and abundant natural light throughout. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, new cabinetry, and sleek countertops.
Beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom residence in a prime Encino location—just north of Balboa Golf Course and minutes from Ventura Boulevard’s cafés, restaurants, and boutique fitness studios.This thoughtfully designed layout maximizes its 825 sq ft with an open-concept living area, hardwood floors, and a modern kitchen featuring stainless-steel appliances. The second bedroom is ideal for a
Situated South of the Boulevard on one of the most desirable streets in Sherman Oaks, this newly constructed gated estate offers a 5-bed, 6-bath main house and 1-bed, 1-bath ADU. Designed for modern living, the bright and airy open-concept floor plan is highlighted by lofty ceilings and walls of glass that flood the space with warm natural light. A culinary enthusiast's dream, the gourmet kitchen
Welcome to this move-in ready top-floor unit, ideally located in one of Sherman Oak's most coveted neighborhoods. Situated within the top-rated Hesby Oaks School District, this property is just moments from Ventura Boulevard’s renowned shops and restaurants, and its prime central location allows for easy access to everything the Valley and the Westside have to offer. Inside, the open-concept main
Beautifully updated one-story home offering close to 1,600 sq. ft. of living space on a fully gated property for ultimate privacy. The seamless open floor plan features a warm living room anchored by a classic fireplace and finished with new hardwood-style flooring. A light and bright remodeled kitchen flows into the family room and breakfast area, perfect for daily living. Designed for outdoor
Charming 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo in Great Sherman Oaks Location. This spacious home features plenty of storage space, updated kitchen and baths. Gleaming wood flooring, a fireplace in the living room and second bedroom, full-sized, in unit, side by side washer/dryer, plus there is a private balcony. This smaller, quite complex has only 10 units and offers gated parking with two side by side
Nestled in the hills of Encino on an expansive private lot. If you are looking for privacy and security, this is definitely the property to be looking at. Enjoy this prime south of the Boulevard location, ideally situated within a highly rated school district and close proximity to everything the Valley and Westside have to offer. Tucked behind a private gate at the end of a long driveway, the
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
FREE March Rent!!!Welcome to CITYWOOD! Situated on a sought-after Sherman Oaks neighborhood find a charming 2-bedroom and 2-bathroom unit with 1,117-SqFt of living space. The unit features a large living room with a sliding door that leads you outside to a balcony. Enjoy creating meals in a Galley kitchen with granite countertops, wooden cabinets, and stainless-steel appliances. Bedrooms are
Price Improvment!! 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
Amalia Khachikian
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Amazing Condo in the heart of Encino.This 2 bedroom 2 bathroom is almost 1,800 sq. ft. of luxury located on the second floor with elevator access. Enjoy the convenience of all the amenities anyone could want, Community pool & spa, a full gym to get your workouts, indoor Jacuzzi and hot Sauna. Fully furnished and all utilities are included. Conveniently located close to shopping,
Welcome to this beautifully updated Encino residence offering space, comfort, and versatility in a prime central location. The main home features 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms across approximately 1,232 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space, filled with natural light and a warm, inviting feel throughout. The open living and dining areas flow seamlessly into a well-appointed kitchen, creating
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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