West Hollywood, LGBTQ+ city in Los Angeles County, United States
West Hollywood is an independent municipality in Los Angeles County, covering roughly 4.9 square kilometers at an elevation of about 86 meters above sea level. The streets follow a grid pattern along two main corridors, Santa Monica Boulevard and Sunset Strip, which run east to west through the territory.
The area grew from a railroad settlement called Sherman in the late 19th century, later developing as an unincorporated strip between Beverly Hills and Hollywood. In 1984, residents voted to establish an independent municipality to secure local governance and protections for the communities living there.
The stretch along Santa Monica Boulevard has served as a center for the LGBTQ+ community since the 1970s, with bars, shops and gathering places open around the clock. The streets display rainbow flags and colorful decorations during Pride season in June, and many of these symbols remain visible throughout the year, shaping the urban landscape.
The municipality runs a free shuttle that links main commercial and residential areas, operating on a regular schedule throughout the day. Most areas can be explored on foot, and many streets feature wide sidewalks and marked crossings that make walking easier.
Around 40 percent of residents identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, representing the highest share of same-sex couples in California. This composition shapes public life and city infrastructure in many visible ways.
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