Los Angeles is one of the most multicultural and dynamic cities in the world, blending glamour, diversity, nature, and opportunity. From Hollywood to beach cities, L.A. offers a lifestyle shaped by great weather, vibrant arts, global cuisine, and proximity to mountains, deserts, and the ocean. Despite its high cost of living and seismic risks, the city remains a top choice for many Brazilians seeking quality of life in the U.S.
By Lindenberg Junior | English Edition/Special Thanks: Ann Fain
Los Angeles is one of the most multicultural cities in the world.
Los Angeles is cosmopolitan and international, home to people from all over the world. It is, in fact, predominantly Latino. “L.A.”, as Angelinos call it, is a true melting pot, where cultures and ethnicities mix naturally and where you can eat — and even breathe — influences from every corner of the globe.
The city hosts some of the largest Asian communities outside Asia, particularly Korean, Taiwanese, and Vietnamese populations. There are also distinct European expat communities and well-known ethnic enclaves such as Little Armenia, Little Ethiopia, Little Tokyo, and, of course, Chinatown.
Food, wine, and a change in lifestyle
Up until I was 26 years old, while living in my native Brazil, I mostly drank beer — a perfect match for Recife, in northeastern Brazil, where hot and humid weather dominates nearly year-round.
After moving to L.A. in the 1990s, I discovered and learned to appreciate wine. For wine lovers, Los Angeles offers access to some of the best wines in the world for under US$15, and even affordable, good-quality options for under US$5. Living in L.A. also means easy access to fresh produce, organic food, and high-quality ingredients.
Glamour, culture, and everyday encounters with fame
L.A. is synonymous with Hollywood, cinema, and glamour, but also with surf culture, outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife. The art and music scenes are exceptional, and living in Los Angeles means you can see world-class artists almost effortlessly.
Concerts might happen at the Hollywood Bowl, the Nokia Theatre (Peacock Theater) downtown, or in countless other venues. And sometimes, celebrities are just part of everyday life — spotted while walking down the street or dining in upscale restaurants from Santa Monica and Beverly Hills to Hermosa Beach and Sherman Oaks.
Before they were famous
If you love music, Los Angeles gives you the chance to see bands before they become global superstars. I remember watching Guns N’ Roses and Red Hot Chili Peppers before they were famous.
Years ago, while working at an Italian restaurant, I delivered Picatta Limonne to Flea, the bass player of the Chili Peppers, at his home in the Los Feliz area. That night, I gave him his first tips about Brazil and Rio — just before the band’s first tour there.
The city offers unmatched access to beaches, mountains, and deserts.
Neighborhoods, vibes, and lifestyles
L.A. is an eclectic city, possibly with one of the highest concentrations of hipsters in the U.S., especially in Silver Lake, Venice Beach, and Hollywood.
Head to the South Bay, and you’ll find beach cities like Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach, where the vibe changes completely. Life near the ocean tends to be more relaxed, shaped by a surf-driven lifestyle.
Everything is close… by California standards
One of Los Angeles’ biggest advantages is proximity. Within a few hours’ drive, you can reach:
Big Bear (2 hours) for skiing and snowboarding
Palm Springs (2 hours) for desert experiences
Santa Barbara (1h30) for wine tasting
San Diego (2 hours) for surfing and day trips
Even Mexico, just minutes south of San Diego
Few major cities offer such geographic diversity so close by.
Weather: the ultimate luxury
I’ve been to Miami, New York, Las Vegas, and many other U.S. cities — but nothing compares to Southern California’s weather.
I’m writing this in the last week of September, and it’s 82°F with clear skies in Tarzana. Some people consider this boring, but if you dislike humidity (like Miami or Recife) or harsh winters (like New York or San Francisco), Los Angeles might be perfect for you.
Years ago, we conducted a survey asking Brazilians living in L.A. what they liked most about the city. The answer was nearly unanimous: the weather. It’s not a small detail — climate can truly improve your quality of life and your outlook on it.
The downsides: cost and risk
Living in L.A. is not without challenges. There are no hurricanes or tornadoes, but earthquakes are always a possibility. And affordability is a major issue.
Los Angeles is currently one of the most expensive cities in the United States, ranking just behind San Francisco and New York in cost of living.
Weather is the number one reason Brazilians love living in L.A.
Why people still choose L.A.
On the positive side, you’ll never shovel snow, you’ll likely have more space at home, and you’ll enjoy easy access to beaches, lakes, and mountains, often under great weather conditions.
I’ll end with something no guidebook tells you: Los Angeles is not ideal for a rushed visit. If you only have one or two days, the city may feel overwhelming — it’s simply too big. But if you give it time, L.A. is undoubtedly one of the best cities in the world to live in.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Los Angeles a good city for Brazilians to live in?
Yes. Many Brazilians value the weather, lifestyle, cultural diversity, and job opportunities.
2. Is Los Angeles very expensive?
Yes. It is among the most expensive cities in the U.S., especially for housing.
3. What are the best areas to live in L.A.?
It depends on lifestyle: beach cities, the Valley, and East L.A. all offer different vibes.
4. Is L.A. only about Hollywood?
No. The city offers nature, music, food, sports, and diverse neighborhoods beyond entertainment.
5. How is the weather year-round?
Mild, sunny, and dry most of the year — one of L.A.’s biggest attractions.
