When discussing the high-end housing market in Los Angeles, Bel Air is a must-mention. Nestled at the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, this area has been a residence for Hollywood celebrities and business moguls for decades, thanks to its spacious lots and privacy.

The median home price in Bel Air ranges from $5 million to $7 million, with large mansions often exceeding $10 million. Considering that the overall median home price in Los Angeles is around $900,000, this represents a difference of five to even ten times.

Holmby Hills is part of the so-called 'Platinum Triangle' along with Bel Air and Beverly Hills. Although smaller in size, its rarity drives the median home price to between $7 million and $9 million, making it even higher than Bel Air. It is also well-known as the former location of the Playboy Mansion.

Brentwood and Pacific Palisades are also prominent upscale residential areas in West Los Angeles. Brentwood, close to UCLA and featuring many quiet neighborhoods, has a median home price of $3 million to $4 million, while Pacific Palisades, known for its ocean views, has similar or slightly higher price points.

The background of these areas becoming affluent neighborhoods is a result of both geography and history. The mountainous and canyon-ridden terrain made early development difficult due to flooding and accessibility issues, leading to the creation of large lots. As the Hollywood industry grew, actors and producers settled here, adding to its significance.

• Bel Air: foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, median $5 million to $7 million
• Holmby Hills: Platinum Triangle, $7 million to $9 million
• Brentwood/Pacific Palisades: near UCLA/ocean, $3 million to $4 million

Among Korean investors, many prefer Hancock Park, which is close to Koreatown, or Palos Verdes, but recent market trends show that some investors with larger business operations are also eyeing properties in Brentwood or Bel Air.

The gap between these areas and more typical neighborhoods is among the most extreme within Los Angeles. Even within the same city, the price differences can be nearly tenfold, making it difficult to understand the market simply by referring to 'Los Angeles home prices.'

If considering relocation or investment, determining which submarket to focus on is the most crucial starting point. If you value school districts and convenience, Brentwood may be ideal, while for symbolism and long-term asset value, Bel Air or Holmby Hills could be more realistic comparisons.