Sun Valley, Los Angeles
Sun Valley is a neighborhood in Los Angeles, California, located in the San Fernando Valley and at the base of the Verdugo Mountains. It borders Shadow Hills to the northeast, Burbank to the southeast, North Hollywood and Valley Glen to the south, Panorama City to the west, and Pacoima, Hansen Dam and Lake View Terrace to the northwest.
The area is known for its younger population. In 2000, Sun Valley had about 75,800 residents on 9.4 square miles, with a density of around 8,000 people per square mile; the population was estimated to be about 81,800 in 2008. The neighborhood is predominantly Latino, with a mix of Whites, Asians, and Blacks. Many residents were born outside the United States, especially in Mexico and El Salvador. The median household income was around $51,000 (in 2008 dollars).
Long ago, the land was home to a Tongva/Fernandeño village called Wixánga, a name tied to the prickly pear cacti in the area. Over time, the area took several names before becoming Sun Valley in 1950.
Sun Valley features several recreation centers, including the Sun Valley Recreation Center, Fernangeles Recreation Center, and Stonehurst Recreation Center (the latter is a California Historic Landmark with a range of facilities). Old Trapper’s Lodge, a famous outsider-art site created by John Ehn, was once in Sun Valley; the artwork was moved to Pierce College in Woodland Hills. The Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers and Native Plants is also located here.
Education is served by 13 public schools, including John H. Francis Polytechnic High School and VOCES, and four private schools. The Los Angeles Public Library runs the Sun Valley Branch. Landmarks include Old Trapper’s Lodge, and the area is also home to the Sun Valley Post Office on Ratner Street and Fire Station 77 of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
In addition to parks and schools, Sun Valley is known for its community centers, safety services, and a mix of housing that reflects its diverse population.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 05:51 (CET).