1. Proximity to Urban Amenities (and Less Driving)

Chances are, if you're living in a micro-unit in LA, you're also closer to the action: public transportation, entertainment venues, dining hotspots, and cultural landmarks. This proximity reduces the need for extensive commuting, allowing residents to spend more time enjoying the city.

Neighborhoods like Echo Park, Silver Lake, West Hollywood, and Venice boast a wealth of attractions within walking or biking distance. For small apartment dwellers, this reduces reliance on cars and highways. If you've been meaning to bike more, here's your chance.

Edendale Crossing is near employers like the Los Angeles General Medical Center, the Unified School District, and Continental, as well as Los Angeles City College and the University of Southern California. Nearby grocery stores include Lassens Market, Trader Joes, and Whole Foods. Need to get away? LAX is 20 miles away. And is near Griffith Park and its iconic Observatory, trails, the Hollywood Sign, Dodger Stadium, Elysian Park, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

2. Sustainability, Eco-Friendliness

Small spaces are inherently more eco-friendly; they require less energy to heat, cool, and illuminate. This not only lowers utility bills but also reduces your carbon footprint. As sustainability becomes increasingly important, living in a smaller space aligns with environmentally conscious lifestyles.

Many small apartments in Los Angeles are also part of larger multi-unit buildings designed to optimize energy use. Shared walls and efficient layouts contribute to reduced energy consumption compared to standalone homes.

3. Low Maintenance, Less Cleaning

The limited square footage means there's less space to clean and maintain. A smaller living environment encourages (or requires) having less stuff. A small space limits clutter and promotes a sense of order and tranquility.

4. Customization and Creative Expression

Small apartments inspire interior design creativity. With limited space, residents get to think outside the box, pivoting to multifunctional furniture (hello Murphy bed!), hidden storage solutions, and foldable everything. The result is a living area that's uniquely tailored to individual tastes and needs. Like the sound of having everything within reach? You're in luck!

Sometimes, the buildings make it even easier to live small: At Edendale, amenities include private parking, on-site bike storage, 24/7 package receiving lockers, 12' tall ceilings, central heat and air conditioning, dishwasher, and a washer and dryer on every floor (available 24/7). In some apartments, there are also floor-to-ceiling windows and a private patio or balcony. All apartments are pet-friendly. 

5. Enhanced Sense of Community

Small apartment buildings often foster close-knit communities. Shared spaces like laundry rooms, courtyards, and rooftop lounges provide opportunities to connect with neighbors. These interactions can lead to friendships, networking opportunities, and a sense of belonging that's invaluable in a sprawling city like Los Angeles.

In areas like Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Koreatown, apartment complexes often host community events, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. This sense of connection is especially nice for new arrivals in Los Angeles looking to build their social networks.

6. Focused Intentional Living

Living in a small unit limits the accumulation of unnecessary possessions and thereby shifts the focus from material possessions to meaningful experiences (a frequently cited priority for Millennials and Gen-Zers). Instead of furnishing a large space, you can direct more resources toward exploring LA's art, culture, cuisine, and outdoor experiences - perfect for anyone prioritizing experiences over things.

7. Financial Freedom for Lifestyle Choices

On a related note, by saving on furnishing and utility costs, small apartment residents often have more disposable income for lifestyle choices. Whether it's attending concerts, traveling, investing in personal growth, or dining out at LA's renowned eateries, the financial flexibility can significantly enhance the quality of life.

8. Ease of Relocation

In a transient city like Los Angeles, where career opportunities and personal circumstances can change rapidly, the simplicity of moving in and out of a small apartment is a major advantage. Less furniture and fewer possessions mean a quicker and less stressful moving process. This flexibility appeals to residents seeking mobility and convenience - whether relocating for work, school, or personal pursuits.

9. Appreciation for Outdoor Spaces

When your living space is compact, outdoor spaces become more valuable. Los Angeles is blessed with year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and an abundance of parks and hiking trails. Small-apartment dwellers often make the most of these public spaces, leading to a more active and outdoor-oriented lifestyle.

From Elysian Park's scenic trails to the laid-back vibes of Venice Beach, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy LA's natural beauty. Living in a small apartment encourages residents to see the city as an extension of their living space.

Final Thoughts

Living in a small apartment in Los Angeles is not so much a compromise as a lifestyle choice with numerous benefits. It's an opportunity to embrace intentional living, sustainability, and community while enjoying LA's vibrant urban culture. By prioritizing experiences over possessions and adopting an intentional mindset, small apartment living can lead to a richer and more fulfilling life in the City of Angels. Are you ready to downsize yet?

Edendale Crossing and its affiliates fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act and do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.