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
Marc de Longeville,
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 $885,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Inviting traditional home ideally located south of Ventura Blvd. on a quiet street in the foothills of Sherman Oaks. A double-door entry opens to a spacious living area with high ceilings, hardwood floors, a mantled fireplace, and picture windows. The center island kitchen includes built-in appliances, glass-front cabinets, and a pantry. French doors from the dining room lead to a deck and BBQ
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
Secluded and set back from the street down a long private driveway, this single-story contemporary home offers a sense of privacy and serenity and features beautiful panoramic views. The home has been thoughtfully updated with a designer's eye, featuring open living spaces, high ceilings, and walls of windows that bring in natural light and highlight the views. The main living and dining areas
? 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
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
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.
Welcome to this exceptional newer construction luxury residence in the heart of Studio City—an incredible opportunity to own in one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Built in 2023, this stunning single-family home (SFD) 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home redefines modern elegance with impeccable high-end finishes, thoughtful design, and an emphasis on comfort, sophistication, and
Inviting traditional home ideally located south of Ventura Blvd. on a quiet street in the foothills of Sherman Oaks. A double-door entry opens to a spacious living area with high ceilings, hardwood floors, a mantled fireplace, and picture windows. The center island kitchen includes built-in appliances, glass-front cabinets, and a pantry. French doors from the dining room lead to a deck and BBQ
Prime Vacant Land in the hills of Sherman Oaks City and Mountain Views! Discover the perfect opportunity to build your dream property on this expansive vacant land in the prestigious and coveted hills of Sherman Oaks. This unique parcel offers breathtaking views of both the city skyline and majestic mountains, making it a standout choice for discerning buyers and investors alike. The land has
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, quiet complex has only 10 units and offers gated parking with two side by side
Situated on an oversized corner lot in the coveted Magnolia Woods neighborhood of Sherman Oaks, this charming single-story home effortlessly blends timeless character with thoughtful modern upgrades. Natural light floods the living room through a large bay window and recessed skylight, highlighting the gorgeous hardwood floors and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The designer chef’s kitchen
Located South of Ventura in Encino and zoned for award-winning Lanai Elementary School, this stunning single-story residence offers nearly 3,000 square feet of thoughtfully reimagined living space. Set back from the street for privacy, the five-bedroom, 3.5-bath home seamlessly blends sleek modern design with warm, inviting finishes and effortless indoor-outdoor living. At the heart of the home
Welcome to this move-in ready, 3-bed, 2-bath top-floor condo located in desirable Sherman Oaks. Designed for modern living, the spacious open-concept floor plan features an updated kitchen outfitted with stainless steel appliances, a formal dining room and inviting living room with a sliding glass door that opens to a private balcony. The generously sized primary suite boasts a walk-in closet and
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
Located South of the Boulevard in one of Sherman Oaks' most coveted neighborhoods, this newer construction modern farmhouse sits on an expansive flat lot and offers 5 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms with thoughtfully curated designer finishes and impeccable craftsmanship throughout. The open-concept main level exudes effortless sophistication, featuring custom woodwork, a statement fireplace, formal
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
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
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
Residence F: Experience luxury living in this brand-new, four-level residence available for lease. Enjoy a private two-car garage, an expansive open floor plan, sliding glass doors to your own private balconies and windows that flood every level with natural light. The chef's kitchen is outfitted with top-of-the-line Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, complemented by designer finishes and sleek
Residence B: Experience luxury living in this brand-new, four-level residence available for lease. Enjoy a private two-car garage, an expansive open floor plan, sliding glass doors to your own private balconies and windows that flood every level with natural light. The chef's kitchen is outfitted with top-of-the-line Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, complemented by designer finishes and sleek
Live in the heart of Encino just minutes from Ventura Blvd, Lake Balboa Park, and some of the best cafés and restaurants in the area. This beautifully remodeled 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment is filled with natural light and designed for comfortable, easy living. The open layout, hardwood floors, and large windows create a bright, inviting space, while the balcony gives you the perfect spot to
Top floor, beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment 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. 301 is on the top floor with stunning views.This residence features an open-concept living area with hardwood floors, a modern kitchen with
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
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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