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Six months in LA is still early days, but that grind is very real. Some people set a deadline (like a year) and reevaluate based on progress and connections. You’re not a failure for reassessing what sustainability actually looks like.
Unfortunately this industry can start you off rough which is for some reason seen as acceptable. I think you just have to judge for yourself how long is long enough. Living in London it’s probably just as hard but I’m still so glad I stuck with it.
Got myself through with a lot of extra side jobs that I really didn’t have the time for. Truth is I don’t know many that didn’t start out similarly to you or I. Went to chase the dream, got a lot of struggles instead. Also happy I stuck with it, but it’s your path to decide what makes the most sense for you.
LA dreams often come with a hefty price tag and a steep learning curve. That grind builds resilience but also burns out dreams fast if not managed. I would give it at least 6 months to 1 year. Reassess with clear metrics: savings buffer, job growth, mental health. If the costs outweigh progress, recalibrate. Hustling isn’t proof of commitment if it’s destroying your foundation. Sustainability trumps sacrifice.
If you couldn't afford LA for at least a year off savings it's going to be a grind. Los Angeles is one of the most expensive cities to live in the country. But as you move up from lower wages to higher wages it gets more affordable. - All industry jobs are down right now. Consider if you are still at a PA level, trying to find gigs in Atlanta or somewhere less expensive. Once you get up to say 1st AC or 2nd AD level and the pay is better, hop back to LA.
Also, there are studio Apts in the South Bay (Hawthorne, for example, that are only $1500) - so don't think conveniece to the studios as abad thing if you are stuck paying $2000+ to live. There are still cheaper places to live (East LA, extreme N. Valley, the IE, etc.) that are cheaper to live.
Also, learn to use the LA Metro trains, Metrolink and the buses to save on gas sometimes. Keeping expenses low is the most important thing starting out
I went in 2008 and gave it six months out the gate. I was able to stay with someone until I found an editing gig but it was contract but the money was good for a web property. Yes LA is very expensive…. I see that now that I moved away… I suggest you keep meeting people if your social, reduce your rent as much as possible, find roomates or cheaper living…. It really is a sacrifice until you get established… you need to find a healthy balance until you get some real money!!! I’d say if your there plan for the long haul but have an escape plan. Be flexible enough that if you get an opportunity somewhere else you can act. Find a way to follow your dream and not become what some else wants of you. Best of luck kiddo!!!
I started in the 2002 and the pay was $150 $175 a day and it was more than I made as a ex chef. But over the years they are paying less or looking for interns to work for free. Have a goal of where you want to be and focus on that and you are going to have to gets allot of freelance jobs in all different fields to pay the bill. I dropped out after 18 years and almost got in the unions a few times but the powers above had other ideas and would fire you and hire there friend so they could get in the union. This life is rewarding but very hard to get into the right group of people.
It’s not what you know it’s who you know!
Best of luck