Moving from Phoenix, AZ, to East Los Angeles, CA

Discover a cultural gem in the shadow of Tinseltown

East Los Angeles is often overshadowed by the neighboring Downtown L.A., Hollywood, and the picturesque beaches along the county’s 75 miles of coastline. Home to more than 100,000 residents, this 7.4-square-mile suburb is California's most populous unincorporated community. 

Moving to East L.A. from Phoenix, AZ — the nation’s fifth-largest city — may feel like a big change. However, the cultural similarities between the two places can help bridge the gap. Learn more about East L.A. and how U-Pack can help simplify your long-distance move. 

Immigrants laid the cultural foundation of East L.A.

Known as a cradle of Chicano politics and culture, East L.A. has more people of Mexican ancestry (over 90 percent) than nearly any neighborhood in America. By comparison, Phoenix has a Latino population of over 40 percent. 

East L.A. became a popular destination for immigrants in the early 20th century as generations of families lived and worked east of the Los Angeles River and traveled downtown to help the city grow and prosper. 

By the start of World War II, East L.A. was almost exclusively Latino and has maintained its essential character since. Scholars worldwide continue to study and document East L.A. as one of the country’s long-standing Mexican-American communities. 

Ideal weather creates year-round opportunities to explore 

Like Phoenix, East L.A. weather is pleasant throughout the year, offering an average of 263 sunny days to get out and about. And better yet, you won’t get the extreme heat of Phoenix. For at least half the year, East L.A. has highs ranging from 70-80 degrees, with lows dropping into the 50s and 60s. 

With that in mind, here are 10 popular East L.A. spots to visit:  

  • Olvera Street 
  • Mariachi Plaza 
  • El Mercado de Los Angeles 
  • East L.A. Farmers Market 
  • Ernest Debs Regional Park 
  • Vincent Price Art Museum 
  • Latino Walk of Fame 
  • Chicano Resource Center 
  • Self Help Graphics & Art 
  • His Lai Temple 

Transportation options for navigating the area 

East L.A. is more compact and walkable than most of greater Los Angeles, but having a car for longer trips like the beach (20 miles west) or the mountains (30 miles north) is useful. Multiple public transportation options are also available. For over two decades, the El Sol East L.A. Shuttle has provided residents with low-cost bus service and a connection to neighboring municipal bus and rail lines. 

Relocate from Phoenix to East L.A. with U-Pack 

You might think that going full DIY is the cheapest and easiest way to move long distance. But U-Pack® offers an easier, more efficient option at a cost that may surprise you. We have a nationwide network of service centers with locations near Phoenix and East L.A. staffed with experienced residential moving professionals ready to help. Contact us for a free online quote or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to learn more.