Santa Monica Travel Forum

I was recently took a programming job in Santa Monica and no very little about the area. Can anyone recommend any locations? I found this list of <a href="http://www.westsiderentals.com/southerncalifornia/apartments.cfm/Santa-Monica-Apartments/"> available apartments in Santa Monca</a>. Any help would be much appreciated. I have a budget of about $1500 for a 1br.

Be warned that you are moving into a very artificial market. The "People's Republic of Santa Monica" is known for it's rent control. This results in very strange practices, such as your neighbor paying 10% of what you do, or the landlord who will not do maintainence because he knows he can get more when you leave. There are some great oportunities, but lots of pitfalls.

Notoriously tough area to find housing, start looking now and don't stop! You might have to look in Culver City, Mar Vista and Venice.

Westside rentals is a good resource - Stay as close to Wilshire Blvd as you can, just to get to know Santa Monica - also close to the Promenade is very good - of course, the beach will be more expensive - most of the areas are fine. Do you have a car? You might check VRBO.COM and these are generally short-term rentals but you can always inquire and they will have interest in a good tenant on a lease. That site is Vacation Rentals By Owner so you should deal directly with the owner.
Your e-mail will always be welcome and I'll try to help you out as much as possible.