Woman crossing a crosswalk designed for pedestrian safety

South LA

EPA — South LA

Includes neighborhoods such as Watts, Vermont-Slauson, Vermont Square, and Westmont. South LA is the location of the current UBM pilot program and includes Council Districts 8, 9, and 15.

Partner: T.R.U.S.T. South LA

Neighborhood Profile

South LA is home to more than 471,000 residents across the full EPA.

The demographic statistics below focus on the parts of South LA with the highest mobility needs.

These areas have a younger population than Los Angeles overall and are predominantly Latino, with a larger share of Black residents than citywide. Household income is well below the citywide average, and South LA has the highest poverty rate among the five Equity Priority Areas. Across the broader EPA, many households have limited access to a vehicle and face some of the city’s highest transportation costs.

Map locating South LA

Key statistics

South LA EPA

Citywide

Median Household Income

$58,379

$81,571

Average Age

32

37

Poverty Rate

26%

17%

Latino

80%

45%

Black

15%

9%

Foreign-born non-citizens

28%

18%

Community Engagement

Who we heard from

595

responses from South LA

Where we engaged residents

  • South LA Eco-Lab community meeting
  • Esperanza Community Housing
  • Jackie Tatum Harvard Recreation Center
  • CicLAvia — Leimert Park meets Expo Park
  • Watts Historic Train Station

What we heard

Mobility investment priorities

  • Transit
  • Sidewalks and crosswalks
  • Shade and public space enhancements

Top mobility challenges

  • Limited infrastructure for walking, biking, and transit
  • Cleanliness, cost, and traffic safety