The Best Old Hollywood Apartments for Rent | Urban LA Living

June 17, 2025
old hollywood apartments for rent

But why just visit when you can live in Hollywood (yes, that Hollywood)? And not just in any building, but in old Hollywood apartments that are full of character and still brimming with class.


In this article,
Urban LA Living will go over why these units are often cheaper, better, and a smarter option for renters looking to settle in the City of Angels. Plus, we’ll recommend a few of our available old Hollywood apartments for rent!


Of course, it all depends on your personal preferences, though we’ve seen firsthand what renters love most, based on years of experience as a local property management company.


Let’s get started.


Why pick old Hollywood apartments?


Old Hollywood apartment buildings remain popular with renters for two key reasons: charm and location.


Historically, vintage apartments were built for the upper middle class and designed by architects who cared deeply about space, style, and structure. You can see it in the exposed brick, original hardwood floors, arched doorways, and even porcelain tubs. They were designed to awe.


Nowadays, developments today focus more on cost-efficiency. Builders often prioritize quick construction, low overhead, and maximizing space for profit  — not necessarily keen on making it feel like a place you can call home. That’s not a bad thing since you’re left with a highly customizable unit, but for more discerning renters, newer builds can feel a bit "cookie-cutter."


Second of all — location, location, location! You’re in the heart of Hollywood. That means you’re just a short walk away from some of the best theaters, museums, and cultural landmarks in the country (possibly even the world).  It’s hard to find a better spot to live than right here. Some of our available apartments even offer views of the iconic Hollywood sign — a sight only a lucky few (most of our tenants here) get to wake up to.


Speaking of our old Hollywood apartments for rent, we currently have four great locations in the heart of the district — each with furnished and unfurnished units to suit your needs:

Avondale: Perfect for Commuters

This pet-friendly old Hollywood apartment comes equipped with updated kitchen appliances, ample storage space, and on-site laundry. As a bonus, you’ll even have a view of the iconic Hollywood sign. Watch the video below to get a glimpse of the unit!

The Avondale is just a short walk from the LA Metro, making your daily commute a breeze. It’s also only five blocks — about a 5-minute walk — from the legendary Walk of Fame. And when it’s time to eat, you’ll be spoiled for choice with Chinese, Vietnamese, and Mexican restaurants to your left and right.


View the full details on
our Avondale page.


The Amor: Peace and quiet

The Amor is a beautiful building featuring original exposed brick and hardwood floors, paired with renovated kitchens (complete with updated appliances) and bathrooms. We also kept the charming '20s vanity area intact — a perfect nod to its old Hollywood roots. Watch the full video below to learn more.

This unit is pet-friendly and comes with on-site laundry for added convenience — which is not shown on the video.


Tucked closer to the Hollywood Hills, The Amor sits quietly in a peaceful neighborhood. We find it ironic (in a good way), considering it’s just around the corner from the Dolby Theatre, TCL Chinese Theatre, and the iconic Hollywood Boulevard. You’re also 6 minutes away from the Metro, so commuting isn’t usually a problem, either.


Ready to give it a look? Check out
the Amor page to learn more.


Hollywood Colony: For those who like their space

This is hands down our most impressive old Hollywood apartment building — a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comfort.


We offer pet-friendly 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom units with standout features, but for this article, we’ll focus on the 1-bedroom layout.


The Hollywood Colony boasts large windows that flood the space with natural light, a community pool to help keep you cool during the summer, and a kitchen outfitted with updated appliances.


The bathroom includes a separate tub and shower, along with generous built-in storage. The bedroom is equally spacious, featuring ample closet space to keep everything organized.


Watch the video to get the full feel of the unit.

If you’re considering the 2-bedroom, the main difference is the added bonus of a extra storage and, of course, an extra room.


For amenities, Hollywood Colony features a beautifully maintained open courtyard, a pool perfect for lounging, and both on-site and street parking for residents. And yes, you can spot the Hollywood Sign right from the property!


You’ll be within walking distance of the Metro, shopping centers, and the Boulevard. The surrounding area includes a mix of other apartments and a nearby elementary school, just five minutes away.


Visit our Hollywood Colony page to learn more.


Beachwood Tower: Live in the heart of Hollywood


Beachwood Tower is our most recently renovated, pet-friendly old Hollywood apartments for rent — perfect for those who want the nightlife and still have a nice place to come home to.


This studio unit opens into a spacious living area featuring refinished hardwood floors and a beautiful ceiling fan. The layout includes a partially open kitchen with updated appliances, a renovated bathroom, and plenty of built-in storage — including a walk-in closet and custom cabinetry. Check out the video below to see the full layout!

As for nearby amenities, Beachwood Tower is in one of the best locations around. Step outside and you're just a short commute or drive from top-rated restaurants, bars, and nightlife along Franklin Ave and Hollywood Boulevard. If you're an extrovert, this makes it easy to get out, socialize, and enjoy everything Hollywood has to offer.


Like what you see? Take a look at the
Beachwood Tower page to learn more.


Wrapping Up


Surprisingly, there are plenty of great options when it comes to old Hollywood apartments for rent. The trick is finding one that still holds onto its charm — without all the typical issues vintage buildings can bring. 


The trick is to look for modern upgrades like updated appliances, energy-efficient features, and reliable tenant support — like ours! Better yet, choose one of Urban LA Living’s restored and modernized
apartment units in Hollywood. Ready to schedule a showing? Contact us today. We would love to hear from you.

By Lauren Litt May 15, 2025
Home hunting and a 1920s Los Angeles apartment caught your eye? Learn about their charm, trade-offs, and value by reading the Urban LA Living blog.
16 Questions to Ask When Renting an Apartment in LA
By Lauren Litt May 6, 2025
Renting an apartment in Los Angeles can be a bucket list item checked, but also REALLY overwhelming. The city offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and amenities. But what are the questions to ask when renting an apartment in LA to ensure you get the best unit possible? Currently, there are over 18,000 rental properties available in Los Angeles, with prices ranging from around $1,300 to $4,500 per month for various types of apartments. This wide selection provides ample opportunities for prospective renters to find their ideal home . Popular areas for apartment hunting include Hollywood, Koreatown, and Downtown LA, each offering different advantages in terms of location and amenities. When searching for an apartment in LA, it's essential to consider factors such as proximity to work or school, access to public transportation, and local attractions. Many apartments in Los Angeles offer amenities like in-unit laundry, stainless steel appliances, and controlled access for added convenience and security. By thoroughly researching options and visiting multiple properties, renters can find the perfect apartment to call home in the City of Angels. Understanding the LA Rental Market
By Lauren Litt April 14, 2025
Looking for vintage apartments Los Angeles renters will adore? Discover why these charming, well-built homes are still a top choice with Urban LA Living.
More Posts