Maybe it’s just because it’s January, or maybe it’s because things are finally starting to feel “normal,” but several people have asked me in the last few weeks how they need to prepare to move to LA.{{1}}
So, here’s a few tips for anyone who wants to prepare for the big move:
Save Up
I know you’re super excited to begin your career, but it’s not like the old days, where you could just show up with grit and gumption, and someone would offer you a job. You’re going to struggle for a while, trying to find work, a place to stay, friends. All of these are going to be necessary, and they all take time.
My suggestion, which is pretty standard, is to save up enough to live on for six months. That includes enough for: rent, car, car insurance, food (groceries and eating out/drinking to network), phone bill, electrical bill, cable/internet. And in addition to that buffer, you’ll also have upfront costs, like buying furniture, rental deposit, purchasing an appropriate wardrobe, if you don’t have one, and any tools you’ll be using on the job.
Get a Car
You may be used to getting around via ride share, or even public transportation where you’re from, but in LA, you need a car. Period. You do not want to be the star of the latest version of The Bus Story.
Along with a car, you’ll need insurance. But following up on the previous section, don’t neglect maintenance. It’s not enough to fill your tank and go to the car wash every once in a while. Get an oil change ever six months, and a tune up at least every year. If you’re buying a used car, remember that tires only last 6-10 years, and most cares run out of warranty after a decade.
Be Careful Where (And with Whom) You Live
Here’s some advice no one else will give you: find a place in the Valley. It’s quieter, cheaper, and you’re more likely to live close to the studio than if you live over the hill in LA proper.{{2}}
And everything is more affordable if you have a roommate, including rent, utilities, and even food, if you can make that kind of arrangement.
If you’re going to have a roommate or two, I also strongly recommend moving here together. Moving in with someone on the same day you meet them is quite the gamble. You’re more likely to share common values, habits, and tastes with someone from your hometown or an old college classmate. A spouse or life-partner would be ideal, of course.
Something You’re Not Likely to Have
Don’t try and find a PA job before you move here. It’s not going to happen. When someone is hiring PA’s or assistants, they need them right now. They’re not going to wait for you to pack your bags and move cross country.
This is why I suggested saving up; you’re going to be living off of those savings for a while.
It’s also why I suggest signing up on the TAPA Patreon page. You’ll get all of our job notices early, and have a chance to apply before everyone else.
[[1]]Contrary to popular belief, some people do, indeed, still want to move here.[[1]]
[[2]]Not that the Valley isn’t “really” LA; nearly half the population lives there. It’s not really a suburb anymore, so much as the north half of the city.[[2]]
