Downtown Los Angeles has transformed from a 9-to-5 business hub into one of LA's most vibrant residential neighborhoods. But "DTLA" isn't monolithic—it's a collection of distinct micro-neighborhoods, each with its own personality. The two most popular for our Downtown LA furnished apartment guests? The Arts District and the Financial District.
Same downtown, completely different vibes. Whether you're relocating for work, need corporate housing, or just exploring LA neighborhoods, here's everything you need to know to choose the right one.
Quick Comparison
| Metric | Arts District | Financial District |
|---|---|---|
| Walk Score | 85 | 97 |
| Transit Score | Good (Little Tokyo station) | Excellent (7th St/Metro Center) |
| LAX Airport | 35-45 min via I-10 | 30-40 min via Metro C Line or I-110 |
| Parking | Easier street parking | Garage-dependent ($$$) |
🚗 The Local's Shortcut
The 6th Street Bridge. Opened in 2022, this isn't just an Instagram landmark—it's the fastest way to get between Boyle Heights/East LA and DTLA. From the Arts District, you can reach the Eastside in 5 minutes while everyone else sits in tunnel traffic. Locals also know that 2nd Street through Little Tokyo moves faster than 1st during rush hour.
| Arts District | Financial District | |
|---|---|---|
| Vibe | Creative, industrial, trendy | Professional, polished, urban |
| Best For | Creatives, remote workers, foodies | Corporate professionals, attorneys, finance |
| Walk Score | 85 (Very Walkable) | 97 (Walker's Paradise) |
| Transit | Good (near Little Tokyo station) | Excellent (7th St/Metro Center) |
| Nightlife | Breweries, wine bars, speakeasies | Rooftop bars, upscale lounges |
| Parking | Easier street parking | Harder, mostly garage |
| Groceries | Limited (need to drive) | Whole Foods, Ralphs nearby |
The Arts District: Where Creativity Lives
🎨 The Arts District
Once a hub of factories and warehouses, the Arts District has become LA's creative epicenter. Think converted industrial lofts with 15-foot ceilings, exposed brick, and polished concrete floors. Every wall seems to be a canvas for world-class street art, and the restaurant scene is arguably the best in the city.
✓ Pros
- Incredible restaurant scene (Bestia, Bavel, Manuela)
- Unique loft-style apartments
- Creative, artistic community
- Great coffee shops for remote work
- Less crowded than core DTLA
- Easier parking
✗ Cons
- Limited grocery options
- Further from Metro hub
- Industrial feel not for everyone
- Fewer 24/7 services
- Longer walk to Financial District offices
Who Thrives in the Arts District?
- Creative professionals: Designers, photographers, artists who feed off the neighborhood's energy
- Remote workers: The coffee shop scene (Verve, Stumptown) is perfect for laptop warriors
- Foodies: If restaurants are your religion, this is your church
- Tech workers: Google, Snap, and other tech companies have offices nearby (though many also choose Santa Monica for Silicon Beach proximity)
Arts District Landmarks
- ROW DTLA: Former industrial complex turned food/retail destination
- Hauser & Wirth: World-class contemporary art gallery
- Angel City Brewery: Local brewery in a 1920s warehouse
- Bestia/Bavel: Two of LA's most acclaimed restaurants
💎 Hidden Gem: The Last Bookstore
Just outside the Arts District in the Historic Core, The Last Bookstore is more than a photo op—it's a genuine workspace if you claim a corner early. Buy a coffee from the in-store café, wander the labyrinth of book tunnels, then settle in. Free WiFi, literary atmosphere, and nobody will judge you for staying all afternoon. It's where DTLA's creative class pretends to be writers.
The Financial District: Urban Sophistication
🏙️ The Financial District
The Financial District is what most people picture when they think "Downtown LA"—gleaming skyscrapers, busy professionals, and that unmistakable urban energy. It's the most transit-connected neighborhood in all of Los Angeles, with the 7th Street/Metro Center station providing access to virtually every Metro line.
✓ Pros
- Best transit access in LA
- Walk to major law firms and corporations
- Whole Foods and Ralphs within walking distance
- High-rise amenities (pools, gyms, concierge)
- LA Live and Crypto.com Arena nearby
- 24/7 urban energy
✗ Cons
- More expensive overall
- Crowded during business hours
- Less neighborhood character
- Parking is expensive/difficult
- Can feel corporate/sterile
Who Thrives in the Financial District?
- Corporate professionals: Attorneys, accountants, consultants who need to be close to clients
- Sports/entertainment fans: Lakers, Clippers, and concerts at Crypto.com Arena are walking distance
- Urban lifestyle seekers: People who want that "big city" experience
- Non-drivers: If you don't have a car, this is arguably the best neighborhood in LA (see our FAQ for more on getting around without a car)
Financial District Landmarks
- LA Live: Entertainment complex with restaurants, movies, and the Grammy Museum
- Crypto.com Arena: Home of the Lakers, Clippers, Kings, and major concerts
- The Bloc: Shopping and dining complex with Macy's
- Grand Central Market: Historic food hall (technically adjacent, but close)
The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Arts District if:
- You value character and creativity over convenience
- Restaurants and nightlife are a priority
- You work remotely or have a flexible schedule
- You have a car (or don't mind Uber for groceries)
Choose the Financial District if:
- You work in a downtown office
- Transit access is essential
- You want high-rise amenities
- You don't have a car
- You want walking access to groceries and services
Ready to Live in Downtown LA?
We have furnished apartments in both the Arts District and Financial District. All move-in ready with flexible lease terms.
View Downtown LA ApartmentsCan't Decide? Consider These DTLA Alternatives
There's more to Downtown LA than just these two neighborhoods:
- Little Tokyo: The sweet spot between Arts District and Financial District, with amazing Japanese food and culture
- South Park: Near LA Live with newer high-rises and a growing restaurant scene
- Historic Core: Broadway theaters, Ace Hotel, and more affordable options
And if you're not sold on downtown living, consider Hollywood for entertainment industry access, Silverlake for creative neighborhood vibes, or West Hollywood for central location with great nightlife. Check out all our LA neighborhoods to compare.
Want help figuring out which DTLA neighborhood is right for you? Contact our team—we've been housing people in Downtown LA for over 13 years.
