<p>I've heard it's a real pain to get parking permits, but I also heard that if you live farther from campus your chances are higher. As in, living in Westwood you probably wouldn't get one. But, I was wondering if UCLA students who have lived off campus can advise on the situation.</p>
<p>I want to live in Santa Monica, I have a friend who I would room with in an apartment. I have family in Venice, so I know that it's not necessarily THAT far from campus. Is that too far? </p>
<p>People have said it's ideal to live in Westwood of course, but it is quite expensive. I don't have too much experience with LA traffic. How bad could living in Santa Monica be travel wise? </p>
<p>Also, I would want/need a parking permit if I decided to live there. What are my chances of getting one? Is there public transportation to campus from Santa Monica? And how long is the journey on a bus?</p>