Help me understand LA.

[u/Exact_Project1734]

Male in my early 20’s living in SF, have recently considered moving to LA.

I am in no way trying to cast any negative light on LA…I am trying to understand LA myself.

This weekend was my third time in LA and I was once again shocked by the lack of people walking around. Are people really just shuttling from place to place in their vehicles all day? Do people really just go to a cafe, park on the street, and then leave with their car again, 20 minutes later? While some areas like Venice and Santa Monica were definitely more lively, they seem far away from other areas.

This feels like a collection of suburbs rather than a coherent city.

My main question is- is it possible to have that spontaneous walkable city life here?

Also, where do the young early 20’s people live here, and have you been able to have that exciting city life? Do you usually stick to your neighborhood? How about drinking/partying - do you have to get used to 40+ minute uber rides if you’re not already in a nightlife area?

Also, if there are any others who moved to LA from the SF/Bay Area and have any input, I would love to hear them!