Where is the best part of Los Angeles for a broke wannabe actor to live?

Question

Also what would the ideal job be? I'm guessing something 2nd shift so mornings would be freed up.

Answer 1

Best case scenario is around the North Hollywood or Hollywood area so that you are close to the studios for auditions. The ideal job would be any job that would work with you when you got an audition. Second shift is fine but auditions can happen all day long so mornings aren't the only time you would need to be free. I would also suggest joining a theatre group so that you can send out postcards to casting directors and agents whenever you appear on stage. This is a great way to have them see you.

Answer 2

The West Hollywood area, where the Sunset Strip is located, used to be the place where young actors just starting used to go to. Not anymore. It's become very expensive. Paris Hilton, among many other celebs, have moved there, and as a result, the rents in WeHo have skyrocketed.

The actual Hollywood District has deteriorated into a sewer. You might find something reasonably priced, but you have to watch your back at all times.

I would suggest Echo Park, Elysian Heights, or Silverlake, all near Dodger Stadium, but rents are going upwards in those areas.

Some are turning to unglamorous areas like Highland Park and Eagle Rock, but they have their problems also.

Telemarketing, waiting tables, and shipping, where you put on skates and bring an order over to the cargo area are old reliables for out of work actors. Customer Service also may be good.

Good Luck.