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Lake Balboa, Los Angeles,CA

Neighborhood Data
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If you're considering a move to the northwest part of Los Angeles, Lake Balboa is a neighborhood that perfectly blends suburban charm with urban convenience. This peaceful community is well-loved for its lush greenery and family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a quieter lifestyle without straying too far from the city’s hustle and bustle. One of the crown jewels in the area is the beautiful Lake Balboa Park, which offers a serene lake, picnic areas, bike trails, and even a Japanese garden. It’s a fantastic place for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, offering plenty of space for weekend activities and community events.

Residents of Lake Balboa also benefit from a variety of local amenities that make day-to-day living easy and enjoyable. The neighborhood boasts numerous shopping centers, quaint cafes, and restaurants that provide a welcoming vibe and a strong sense of community. For those who enjoy cultural and recreational activities, the nearby Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area offers sports fields, golf courses, and the famous Japanese Garden, which is a peaceful retreat perfect for relaxation. The neighborhood is also served by several good schools, making it a popular choice for families with children.

Despite its tranquil setting, Lake Balboa is conveniently located about 15 miles northwest of Downtown Los Angeles, making it quite manageable for commuters who work in the city center. With access to major freeways and public transportation, residents can enjoy the best of both worlds—peaceful living with easy access to downtown’s vibrant business, dining, and entertainment districts. Whether you’re moving from nearby neighborhoods or relocating from further away, Lake Balboa offers a welcoming community with plenty of green spaces and a relaxed pace, all while staying connected to the urban core.

Lake Balboa Demographics

Population 24,544
Density (People/sqml.) 3,922
Median Age 40.3
Married Couples
48%
48% of the population of Lake Balboa aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
26%
26% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

26% of the Lake Balboa population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 26% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Lake Balboa neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Lake Balboa demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Lake Balboa has a population of 24,544, which is larger than many other Los Angeles neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Lake Balboa has a population density of 3,922, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Los Angeles neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 40, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Lake Balboa

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Lake Balboa neighborhood crime breakdown chart

Lake Balboa Crime Map

The Lake Balboa crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

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Home Price $715,372
Median Rent $2,338
People/Household 2.9

Home Price Breakdown

Lake Balboa neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 36% Own 64%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 62% After 2010 38%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year Home Prices YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Lake Balboa, home prices come in around $715,372, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Lake Balboa can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,338, rental rates in Lake Balboa are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Starbucks
Coffee Shop
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Starbucks
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

Theatre Arts
Theatre Arts
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Arts & Crafts Room
Theatre Arts
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Food & Drink

El Tijuanense
Fast Food
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In-N-Out Burger
Fast Food
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Groceries

Ralphs
Grocery Store
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Q Market & Produce
Grocery Store
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Parks

Louise Park
Park
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Salon Mila
Hairdresser
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Atomic Cycles
Bicycle
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Sherman/Amestoy
Bus Stop
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Sherman/Amestoy
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Rite Aid
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CVS Pharmacy
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Health Care

Dentist
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Doctor
Doctor
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Safety

American Professional Ambulance
Ambulance Station
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Los Angeles Fire Department Fire Station 100
Fire Station
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Top Rated Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Lemay Street Elementary
17520 Vanowen St., Lake Balboa, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Gault Street Elementary
17000 Gault St., Lake Balboa, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
The City School
17424 Sherman Way, Lake Balboa, CA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Anatola Avenue Elementary
7364 Anatola Ave., Lake Balboa, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Independence Continuation
6501 Balboa Blvd., Lake Balboa, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Birmingham Community Charter High
17000 Haynes St., Lake Balboa, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Magnolia Science Academy 2
17125 Victory Blvd., Van Nuys, CA
High School 6 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Lake Balboa combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Lake Balboa can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.