Both Brooklyn, NY, and Silver Lake, Los Angeles, CA, offer vibrant urban living with diverse amenities and strong community vibes, but they come with a high cost of living and higher-than-average crime rates. Brooklyn boasts superior public transportation and a higher walkability score in its downtown area, while Silver Lake offers a trendy restaurant and nightlife scene with a higher income per capita but also a higher unemployment rate. The choice depends on individual priorities regarding transportation, job market, and tolerance for crime rates.
| Attribute | Brooklyn, NY | Silver Lake, Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Significantly higher than the national average (61% more expensive). Housing costs are 176% to 179.6% higher. A single adult needs around $101,592 pre-tax salary; a family needs approximately $169,560 annual income. | 104% higher than the national average; 46% higher than the average for Los Angeles. Housing is 311% higher than the national average. |
| Median Home Price | $850,000 to $1,019,077 (Varies by source and date) | $1,270,000 to $1,600,000 (Varies by source and date) |
| Public Transportation | World-class public transportation | Good public transportation. Bus stops available along Glendale and Sunset Boulevards. Transit Score: 48/100 and 49/100 |
| Walkability | Downtown Brooklyn: Walk Score of 97 ('Walker's Paradise') | Walk Score of 81 ('Very Walkable') |
| Crime Rate | Higher than the national average. Violent crime: 1 in 154 chance. Property crime: 21 per 1,000 population. | Overall crime rates are 55% higher than the national average. Violent crimes are 15% higher. Property crime rates are 62% higher. Chance of being a victim: 1 in 29. |
| School Quality | Diverse range of 573 schools. Average ranking is 7/10 (top 50% in New York). | Several highly-rated public schools. District's average testing ranking is 7/10 (top 50% in California). |
| Green Spaces & Parks | Numerous parks, including Prospect Park (585 acres), Brooklyn Bridge Park, and Brooklyn Botanic Garden. | Silver Lake Reservoir, Silver Lake Meadow, Silver Lake Recreation Center, Elysian Park. |
| Restaurant & Nightlife | Vibrant with diverse options. Williamsburg and DUMBO are known for nightlife. | Trendy bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Center for alternative and indie rock. |
| Cultural Attractions & Entertainment | Brooklyn Museum, New York Transit Museum, Coney Island. | The Music Box Steps, Neutra VDL House, Micheltorena Stairs, Lyric Hyperion |
| Community Vibe | Known for its diverse culture and community events. | Strong sense of community. Residents are active in local councils and associations. |
| Job Market | Health care and social assistance sector is dominant. Growth in technology, entertainment, and support services. | Income per capita is 98% higher than the national average. Median household income is 65% higher than the national average. Unemployment rate is 3% higher than the national average. |
| Proximity to Amenities | Generally offers good proximity to amenities like grocery stores and healthcare. | Abundance of amenities including restaurants, boutique shops, cafes, and farmers markets. |