What’s It Really Like Living in a Duplex in Los Angeles?

Elizabeth Deo
Apr 18
2 min read

Thinking About Buying a Duplex in LA? Here’s What to Expect.

If you’ve spent any time scrolling Zillow or driving through neighborhoods like Highland Park, Atwater Village, or Mid-City, you’ve probably noticed something: duplexes are everywhere. And with good reason — in a city as expensive (and competitive) as Los Angeles, living in a duplex can be a smart and flexible way to buy real estate.

But what’s it really like to live in one?

Here’s a no-BS guide from someone who helps buyers and sellers navigate small multi-family properties in LA every day.

🏘 What is a Duplex, Exactly?

A duplex is a residential property with two separate units — often side-by-side or one on top of the other. Each has its own entrance, and in many cases, its own yard or garage.

In LA, most duplexes were built between the 1920s and 1960s and have tons of charm (and quirks). Some owners live in one unit and rent out the other, while others rent both.

🔑 The Pros of Living in a Duplex

1. Mortgage Help from a Built-in Tenant Probably the #1 reason people buy duplexes: the rental income. Renting out one unit can cover a big chunk of your mortgage — sometimes more. This means much more affordable living.

2. Investment Without Leaving Your Neighborhood You can live in your dream area (Silver Lake, Echo Park, West Adams, whatever that may be) and build equity like an investor.

3. Long-Term Flexibility Start as an owner-occupant, then turn both units into rentals. Or convert the other unit into an office, guest house, or ADU. You’ve got options!

4. Getting into the market sooner In many neighborhoods, duplexes can cost far less per square foot vs and single-family residence. That, along with rent from a tenant, can help first-time home buyers jump into the housing market sooner.

😬 The Cons (That Nobody Tells You)

1. You’ll Share Walls or Space Even though it’s not an apartment, it’s not totally private. You may share a driveway, backyard, or even hear your neighbor through the walls (depending on the build).

2. You Might Be a Landlord — Ready or Not Being a landlord in LA means navigating rent control (RSO), tenant rights, and maintenance. It’s doable, but it helps to have guidance.

3. Financing Can Sometimes Be Tricky Some lenders treat duplexes differently than single-family homes. I always recommend working with a loan officer who’s familiar with multi-family purchases in LA.

🧠 Pro Tip from Me: Buy Smart

Not all duplexes are created equal. Some have unpermitted units, deferred maintenance, or tricky tenant situations. That’s where an experienced agent (👋 hi, I’m Elizabeth!) makes all the difference.

💬 Final Thoughts

Living in a duplex in Los Angeles isn’t for everyone — but if you want a smart, semi-passive way to build wealth while putting down roots in the city, it might be exactly what you're looking for.

Thinking about buying a duplex? I help LA buyers navigate the ins and outs of small multi-family homes. Let’s talk about what would work best for you.