Woodland Hills occupies a prime location in the southwestern corner of the San Fernando Valley, bordered by several key communities that help define its identity. To the north, it meets West Hills, Winnetka, and Canoga Park; to the west lies the city of Calabasas; to the east is Tarzana; and to the south, the land rises into the Santa Monica Mountains, placing Woodland Hills at the gateway between valley living and mountain landscapes. This strategic position creates a unique blend of environments, making the neighborhood one of the most geographically diverse regions in Los Angeles.

Geography and Physical Environment

The area’s geography is split between the valley floor and the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains. North of Ventura Boulevard, much of the land features flatter suburban neighborhoods typical of the San Fernando Valley. South of Ventura Boulevard, the community transitions into hilly terrain, where winding roads lead to elevated homes with striking views of the Valley, mountain ridges, and sunsets. This variation in topography contributes to the neighborhood’s charm and offers a wide range of residential experiences—from modest suburban homes to large hillside estates.

Woodland Hills has long been known for its abundance of trees and greenery, a characteristic that dates back to the early days of its development. The extensive planting of trees in the 1920s transformed the area into a lush, appealing place to live. To this day, mature pines, eucalyptus, and other large trees create shaded streets and pockets of woodland-like areas that reflect the neighborhood’s name.

Historical Background

The region’s history stretches back thousands of years, originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Fernandeño-Tataviam and Chumash. Their presence throughout the San Fernando Valley and the Santa Monica Mountains laid deep cultural roots that predate modern development.

During Spanish and Mexican rule, the Valley was occupied for agricultural and mission-related activities, with the land forming part of the Mission San Fernando’s holdings. After California became part of the United States in the mid-19th century, the land slowly transitioned from ranching and farming to suburban development.

A major turning point occurred in 1910 when a massive land transaction—one of the largest in Los Angeles County at the time—opened significant portions of the Valley for suburban expansion. In the early 1920s, developer Victor Girard acquired nearly 3,000 acres in the area and launched a planned suburban community originally named Girard. He planted tens of thousands of trees, built commercial structures, and carved out residential lots, laying the foundation for what would eventually become Woodland Hills. Although the Great Depression slowed growth, the community survived, and in 1941 the name was officially changed to Woodland Hills.

In the 1940s, the neighborhood experienced another major shift when Harry Warner of Warner Bros. purchased land for a horse ranch. This property ultimately became the site of Warner Center, a master-planned business district that has shaped the area’s economic landscape.

Community and Residential Character

Woodland Hills is known for its diversity in housing styles and neighborhood ambience. The lower valley areas often feature ranch-style homes, mid-century designs, and traditional suburban neighborhoods. In contrast, the southern hillsides offer larger, more private residences, many with spacious yards, scenic views, and upscale architectural styles.

Areas such as Walnut Acres, Corbin Palms, and the Kingswood district preserve historic and mid-century aesthetics that attract residents who appreciate classic California architecture. The combination of older homes, new construction, and ongoing redevelopment provides a dynamic housing market that appeals to families, professionals, and retirees.

The neighborhood is also known for its sense of space. Compared to denser parts of Los Angeles, Woodland Hills offers wider streets, larger lots, and a quieter atmosphere while still remaining connected to city conveniences.

Economic Landscape and Infrastructure

A central component of Woodland Hills’ identity is Warner Center—a commercial, residential, and business hub that continues to evolve through modern development plans. Originally intended to decentralize business from downtown Los Angeles, Warner Center now serves as a mini-city within the community, featuring office buildings, retail centers, residential complexes, and mixed-use zones. This district has brought economic vitality to Woodland Hills and has helped shape the neighborhood’s reputation as both a residential and commercial destination.

Transportation in the area is supported primarily by U.S. Route 101, which runs east-west through the neighborhood and connects residents to major parts of Los Angeles and Ventura County. Ventura Boulevard serves as the community’s commercial spine, hosting numerous businesses, services, and neighborhood amenities.

Lifestyle and Overall Character

Woodland Hills offers a balanced lifestyle, combining the peaceful ambiance of a tree-filled suburb with the energy of a developing urban center. Its location near the mountains provides opportunities for scenic living, while the valley floor offers convenience and accessibility. This balance attracts a wide demographic, creating a stable and diverse community environment.