Palms
Palms, originally “The Palms,” is a highly diverse and historic Westside community in Los Angeles, founded in 1886 and annexed by the city in 1915. Once marketed as an agricultural and vacation destination, Palms is now the oldest neighborhood incorporated into Los Angeles. It is known for its lively atmosphere, urban convenience, and easy access to the best of the Westside.
Neighborhood & Local Feel
Palms is one of L.A.’s most densely-populated and diverse neighborhoods. There’s a youthful population. It’s developed a reputation as a hub for ambitious postgrads, young professionals, and families. Locals praise its affordability (by Westside standards), proximity to Culver City and major job centers, and the sheer variety of food, shopping, and cultural options. The majority of residents rent. The housing stock is a mix of apartments, condos, and a handful of single-family homes in the northwest. Some love its central location and lively scene. Most agree Palms offers incredible convenience and walkability at a more attainable price point than neighboring areas.
Walkability
Palms earns a Walk Score of 90 and is one of the top 10 most walkable neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Residents can easily stroll to local restaurants, grocery stores, shops, and parks. Many blocks are also bike-friendly, and downtown Culver City is within easy walking distance for most. While parking can be a challenge, the area is well designed for car-free or car-lite living.
What Schools are Near Palms?
- Palms Elementary School (3520 Motor Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034): Part of LAUSD, featuring a Gifted & Talented program and serving grades K–5. While it performs below average on some state metrics, parents note an engaged staff and a strong community focus.
- Other options: Nearby public, charter, and private schools serve local students through middle and high school levels. Schools such as Girls Academic Leadership Academy and Da Vinci Science are also accessible.
- UCLA is only about five miles away, making Palms popular for students and staff.
Transit Options
- Palms Station (E Line/Expo Line): Provides fast light rail connections to Downtown L.A., USC, Exposition Park, Santa Monica, and the greater Metro network. The station sits above National & Palms Boulevards… named for the neighborhood it serves.
- Bus routes: Multiple Metro and Santa Monica Big Blue Bus lines serve the area, connecting Palms with the rest of the Westside, DTLA, and adjacent communities.
- Proximity to freeways: The 10 and 405 Freeways are easily accessible, making Palms a commuter-friendly address.
Restaurants & Food Scene
Palms offers an impressive range of local eateries:
- The Doughroom: A beloved neighborhood pizzeria and craft beer spot.
- Simpang Asia: An Indonesian food gem—one of L.A.’s best-kept secrets.
- Bacari: Tapas with inventive, globally-inspired flavors.
- Carasau, Piccalilli, and Laurel Grill: Local favorites for Italian, Asian-fusion, and American classics.
- Nearby: Downtown Culver City is within walking distance, overflowing with bars, dining, coffee shops, and entertainment.
Fun, Unique Aspects & Sites to See
- Cultural Diversity: Residents enjoy a mix of backgrounds and languages, making Palms a microcosm of L.A.
- Palm Tree History: Over 5,000 palm trees were originally planted to define the neighborhood.
- Annual Events: Palms hosts block parties, movie nights, and events at Woodbine Park and local community centers. Check for seasonal art fairs and food festivals, especially centered on National Blvd.
- Local Parks: Woodbine Park and Palms Park offer playgrounds, picnic areas, and community programs.
- Historic Cinema: The vintage Culver-Palms United Methodist Church building and local theaters celebrate performing arts in Palms.
What’s it like Living in Palms?
Palms is an eclectic, walkable, and affordable Westside hub. It blends rich history, vibrant food and culture, reliable transit links, strong rental appeal, and a youthful, global community. It’s minutes from the best of West LA, Culver City, and Santa Monica.
Sold by Martin in Palms
Below are some of my Palms sales. If you’re interested in selling (or buying) property here, call me at 310.729.6573 or scroll further down to schedule a meeting.