Moving to
Los Angeles
For expats, moving to Los Angeles often means entering industries such as entertainment, technology, international trade, aerospace or healthcare. The city offers opportunity, but requires careful planning. Distances are significant and commuting patterns strongly influence daily life.
A successful move to LA starts with realistic expectations and alignment between visa timing, housing and shipment planning. We guide our clients step by step to ensure structure and clarity throughout the process.
Moving to or from Los Angeles
Housing for Expats
Los Angeles offers a mix of apartment buildings, gated communities and single family homes. Detached houses are more common than in cities like New York.
Rental applications typically require:
• Proof of income
• Employment verification
• Identification
• Credit history
• Security deposit and first month rent
California provides tenant protections, yet landlords screen applicants carefully. Expats without established US credit may need to provide additional financial documentation.
Location selection should consider commute times. Traffic congestion can significantly affect daily routines. Housing decisions should therefore align with workplace location before shipment delivery is scheduled.
Get a non-binding price indication
for your international move.
Housing for Expats
Housing for Expats
Los Angeles offers a mix of apartment buildings, gated communities and single family homes. Detached houses are more common than in cities like New York.
Rental applications typically require:
• Proof of income
• Employment verification
• Identification
• Credit history
• Security deposit and first month rent
California provides tenant protections, yet landlords screen applicants carefully. Expats without established US credit may need to provide additional financial documentation.
Location selection should consider commute times. Traffic congestion can significantly affect daily routines. Housing decisions should therefore align with workplace location before shipment delivery is scheduled.
Cost of Living and Tax Considerations
Cost of Living and Tax Considerations
California imposes state income tax in addition to federal income tax. This affects overall net income calculations.
Budget planning should include:
• Rent or mortgage
• State and federal taxes
• Health insurance
• Vehicle ownership and insurance
• Utilities
The cost of living in Los Angeles is above the US national average. Structured financial planning supports long term relocation success.
Climate, Seismic Regulations and Relocation Planning
Climate, Seismic Regulations and Relocation Planning
Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Weather rarely disrupts shipment deliveries.
The region is seismically active. Buildings comply with earthquake safety standards, and some residential complexes maintain specific move in regulations.
International shipments usually arrive through West Coast ports. Air freight is available for essential goods required immediately after arrival.
Effective planning includes:
• Port coordination
• Building access requirements
• Delivery scheduling
• Temporary storage if needed
Advance coordination prevents unnecessary delays.
Everyday Living and Practical Considerations
Everyday Living and Practical Considerations
Los Angeles is largely car dependent. Transportation planning is therefore an important aspect of relocation.
Healthcare is privately arranged and insurance coverage must be secured upon arrival. International schools are available but often require early application.
Organising banking, insurance and utilities in advance helps ensure a smoother transition during the first months.
Client
Experiences
Schmidt made our complicated (and emotional) move easier by always responding quickly to our emails, phone calls and general inquiries, explaining well the process of what to expect. The moving team in California were professional, friendly and efficient – the manager of their team quickly took over all aspects of packing, building crates and loading our boxes onto the truck. The two delivery drivers in Italy were awesome! They were very helpful, polite and friendly. The Administrative team from New York, New Jersey, Oakland and the Netherlands (and all else involved) were extremely polite, helpful and professional, walking us through the process. We will definitely recommend Schmidt to others.
Franco & Jennifer Minniti
Wij geven u vrijblijvend een richtprijs voor uw internationale verhuizing
The step-by-step plan for
your international move
Moving abroad is a complex process. Eliminate the stress and stay prepared with our comprehensive step-by-step plan, covering everything from your first inquiry to the safe delivery of your belongings. Guiding your way home.
Other popular cities
in America
Are you considering other destinations in America besides Los Angeles? Schmidt Global handles moves to various popular cities, such as New York and Miami. You can count on the same personal touch and exceptional service in these cities as well.
