Planning to Move to Los Angeles

[MayMSN]

Hello All!!

I am planning to move to Los Angeles area within the next year and I need advice regarding cost of living, average RN pay, etc.

I am an RN with 2 years of acute care (Medical Surrgical) experience in the Central Valley. I do know that the cost of living is significantly higher in LA but I am willing to move to move to for the change of pace, to meet new people and to work for another hospital. I plan to stick with med surg possible working for a specialty in one of the big hospitals in LA

I am looking for any advice from people who have moved in the LA area, how it went, was it worth, cost of living (ie rent, utililties, food, entertaintment) basically if it is feasible for a single girl with no children to be able to experience life in the big city. Also recommendations where to live would be great. :loveya:

[caliotter3]

Do your research before you make the move. Best to have a job lined up first as the job market is not what it used to be. When I moved here about five years ago, I easily obtained two jobs. Now, all but impossible and many employers have lowered their pay scales. I moved from NorCal. Found the cost of living to be just as high down here, but the pay is noticeably less. Check out the employment websites and the HR links for the major hospitals and you will see what is, and is not, available. Good luck.

[MayMSN]

thank you so much for the advice. I am definitely doing my research before moving to LA. Hope to get more advice from other nurse too!!

[Harp123]

I suppose it can really depend on where you live. This is my first year at the UCLA Med Center and I'm making about 34 an hour day shift plus 6 night differential. I live about 5 minutes away from the hospital, but rent around here is about 1400-1500 for a 1 bedroom since there are so many UCLA students here. Westwood is a really expensive location to live, however, so I have a feeling that other places in LA may be cheaper (but probably still over 1k for a 1 bedroom).

Also, if you're considering commuting, realize that the 405 freeway is always a nightmare and may add an additional 30 minutes to your travel time during peak hours.

[MayMSN]

Thank you Harp 123! Do you have your own place or have roommates? I think I am more worried about the actual living in LA. My current job/pay is more than what I need for living expenses but I do know it will be a different story once I live in LA. I do want to have a social life and do not want to live pay check to pay check. I currently work day shift and would like to continue to do that when I move. I heard if you work day shift 7a-7p, you tend to avoid the nightmare traffic LA is know for, is this true? Also I would consider living in Glendale, Burbank, Sherman Oaks area. I looking to live where there is more things to do for singles or at least accessible. I still have a year or so to decide and save up and who knows how long I will find a job that I am happy with, but I at least what to be in a position to be ready to move once a the right job and place happens. Any additional advice would be appreciated fellow nurses!!