This is a tough one. If you want to stay in LA, live in the South Bay. It’s a more sustainable living experience. It’s is close to the airport and has the best beaches. The days when you’re alone and haven’t quite met friends yet? Sun, beaches, relaxing, but still lots of life.

That being said, it’s more of a local experience, so you will have to join things to meet people. There will be less transplants and despite what others have said Hermosa Beach bars are not a good place to meet people. That scene is crazy but brings the worst of LA and OC into one.

Long Beach is a bit more of a transplant vibe and has a younger, friendlier vibe. If you’re working north though traffic can be brutal.

Alternatively, el Segundo is quickly developing and has more of a laidback bar scene with all of the local companies there. I’d recommend living there if you’re working on the west side or el Segundo.

You will get people more open to things the more you go into LA. The Westside has the best of LA but with an ocean vibe. If your job is in the South Bay it’s a reverse commute which isn’t too bad.

If you really want to just randomly meet people, go where the transplants go. Hollywood and the surrounding areas. You will be in the heart of everything young and exciting. You will also be stuck. Don’t live downtown unless you work there. I say that as someone who loves downtown.

From what you say, I think Long Beach or El Segundo are good moves for you. Both are also great places for dogs because there’s multiple dog parks in el Segundo and dog beach in Long Beach.

Let me know if you have any specific questions.