When I first arrived in Los Angeles, it felt like an apocalyptic scene straight out of a movie. The summer of 2020 was filled with closed stores, empty streets, and the sky was an eerie orange from the wildfires. But things got even worse after I parked my U-Haul.
As I walked to my new apartment, I couldn’t help but notice that people were sleeping in their cars everywhere. It was a mix of UCLA students and construction workers, and it was something I had never encountered before. In New York City, homeless people rarely have cars, and the city is obligated to provide them with shelter. But in California, that’s not the case.
There are nearly 20,000 people in Los Angeles living in RVs, vans, or cars, and that number is only increasing. Many of these individuals are not struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues. They are hardworking people who simply cannot afford a home. The homelessness crisis in Los Angeles, whether it’s vehicular or otherwise, is a pressing issue that needs attention.
Personally, I became a part of this community in the summer of 2021. Due to the COVID-19 lockdowns and the high cost of living, I found myself paying an exorbitant amount for a small room in a shared apartment. My lease was ending, and I had to travel for work, so moving into my Prius seemed like the best option.
Los Angeles is known for its car culture, and living out of a Prius has become somewhat of a trend. There are countless YouTube channels and social media accounts dedicated to showcasing this lifestyle. The appeal lies in the freedom and affordability it offers. A used Prius can be purchased for a low price, and it requires little maintenance and has high gas mileage. Plus, with the hybrid battery, it’s easy to keep the car running for heating or air conditioning.
I decided to keep my build simple. I removed the rear seats and created a makeshift bed with storage containers and a mattress topper. It was surprisingly comfortable and provided more space than a typical hotel mattress. I added curtains and other accessories for privacy and convenience.
During my first day living out of my Prius, I impulsively drove up the Pacific Coast Highway and found myself without a plan for where to sleep that night. I ended up staying at a crowded rest area with other vehicle dwellers. It was a humbling experience to see families sleeping in cramped cars, and it made me realize the harsh realities of vehicular homelessness.
Throughout my journey, I encountered fellow travelers who were also living out of their vehicles. There was a sense of camaraderie among us, as we shared tips on safe parking spots and supported one another. It was a unique community that formed out of necessity.
I continued my journey up the coast, staying at free campsites and enjoying the beauty of the natural landscapes. However, I soon realized that my temporary experiment in vehicle dwelling was becoming a long-term reality. Finding affordable housing in Los Angeles was a challenge, and I couldn’t afford to rent an apartment on my stipend.
Living in a car in the city was much more difficult than in remote areas. Many cities have banned vehicle living or have strict parking regulations that effectively discourage it. Los Angeles uses a zone system, where certain areas tolerate vehicle living while others do not. Unfortunately, the tolerated areas are often unsafe and isolated.
I found refuge in the Angeles National Forest and occasionally slept near UCLA among other students and construction workers. It was ironic that the very scene that had repulsed me when I first arrived in Los Angeles became my reality.
In Los Angeles, there are three main categories of vehicle dwellers – those living in RVs, vans, and cars. By official counts, cars make up nearly a quarter of the population, but it’s likely an undercount as they blend in more easily. Car dwellers tend to be more diverse, including women, parents, and temporarily homeless individuals.
Criminalizing vehicle living does not address the root cause of homelessness, which is the lack of affordable housing. While there are valid concerns about sanitation and public health, it’s important to focus on finding long-term solutions rather than punishing those already in difficult situations.
Thankfully, some cities are starting to reform their policies on vehicle living to better address the issue. Santa Barbara led the way in 2004, and many others have followed suit. It’s a step in the right direction, but there is still much work to be done to ensure that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing.
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