Aspiring actors with grandiose visions of stardom still flock to Hollywood, but this historic heart of L.A.’s film industry is not what it used to be, and disappointment may loom large. Today, Hollywood is more illusion and state of mind than actual industry, and studios are now dispersed around town, leaving only remnants of the neighborhood’s yesteryear glamour.

Suburbs of Los Angeles such as Highland Park and El Sereno offer affordable housing relative to other parts of the city, while still maintaining close proximity to the employment center of downtown Los Angeles. Attractions like the Rose Bowl, Staples Center, and Dodger Stadium are also still nearby.