Welcome to Sherman Oaks

History

The history of how Sherman Oaks came about is an interesting one. The land took many twists and turns before becoming the Sherman Oaks we know and love today. Back in 1910, a company named the Los Angeles Suburban Homes Co. had purchased 47,000 acres of land because they felt there would be a surge of interest in the area. After all, in 3 years, the City of Los Angeles would develop the city's aqueduct in the area. So the land was purchased but still had to go through more formalities before development could begin. So in 1911, they had to file a subdivision map with the the city of Los Angeles. It was called Tract 1000. That was the first step in how Sherman Oaks began. Then a man by the name of General Moses Hazeltine Sherman, who was also one of the partners of the Los Angeles Suburban Homes Co., purchased 1000 acres all for himself. Well, a little over 10 years went by and in 1927, he took that 1000 acres, subdivided it all up, and sold off the land at $780 an acre. Sherman Oaks was born. Now you know where the name Sherman comes from in Sherman Oaks. 

Geography

Sherman Oaks is part of the Valley. To get an idea of where it sits, it is between Studio City, Van Nuys, Encino, Bel Air, and Beverly Hills. Now the northern border currently goes to Burbank Blvd. But In July of 2009, the council for the city of Los Angeles granted the request to extend that boundary further to the north all the way to Oxnard St.

Landmarks

Sherman Oaks doesn't have a lot of major landmarks. But it does have one that is very well known throughout the entire valley and that is the famous Sherman Oaks Galleria. It has been a major landmark for many many years. Unfortunately, it was damaged back in 1994 during the Northridge earthquake so they had to tear it down. Thankfully it was rebuilt into a beautiful open-air mall and it still is Sherman Oaks' more popular landmark. It has also been seen in many films through the years. One of the first films it was used in was back in 1983 in the film Valley Girls. Another famous film it was used in was Fast Times at Ridgemont High. All of the kids in the film worked there so it's shown through the entire film.

Another famous landmark of Sherman Oaks is Castle Park Miniature Golf. It's one of the top miniature golf parks in the country. Its famously known for its lavish front that is built as a castle.

Education

Sherman Oaks has one of the largest collections of public and private schools of any city in the Valley. They have 5 public elementary schools and 2 public secondary schools. Plus they have two public high schools. U.S Grant High School is located near Valley Glen and Van Nuys High School. There is also the Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies. For private schools, there are plenty to choose from as well. In fact, there are more private schools than there are public schools to choose from in Sherman Oaks. The 2 most famous ones are The Buckley School and Notre Dame High School. The remaining private schools in the area are Church of the Chimes, Emek Hebrew Academy, St. Francis DeSales, Sherman Oaks Lutheran, Sherman Oaks Presbyterian, The Nurtury, Armenian Evangelical Schools of California, Bridges Academy, Cambridge School, Ferrahian Armenian High School and St.Cyril of Jerusalem. For higher education, they have options as well. In terms of private higher education, there is the National University as well as Devry University. A public there is the Los Angeles Valley College.

Media

Sherman Oaks Video Tour

A blend of Los Angeles elegance and suburban bliss

What to Love

• Beautiful tree-lined residential streets

• Convenient access to the 101 and 405 freeways

• The bustling Ventura Boulevard corridor filled with dining, cafés, and boutiques

• Highly rated schools and family-friendly parks

• Quiet suburban pockets with a close-knit feel

• Proximity to the Sherman Oaks Galleria and major shopping destinations

• Easy commutes to Studio City, Encino, Beverly Hills, and West LA

• A wide range of home styles, from classic ranch houses to modern luxury builds

Local Lifestyle in Sherman Oaks

The lifestyle in Sherman Oaks is relaxed, friendly, and community-oriented. Residents enjoy a suburban pace of life with all the conveniences of a major city nearby. Weekend mornings are spent at local farmers markets, jogging in nearby parks, or grabbing brunch on Ventura Boulevard. Families appreciate the safe, walkable streets, while professionals value the quick access to freeways and business hubs. Evenings bring casual dining, boutique fitness classes, and neighborhood strolls. Sherman Oaks maintains a warm, comfortable vibe that appeals to people of all ages.

Suburban Family Living

Sherman Oaks is best known for its suburban family lifestyle. Wide residential streets, generous yards, and numerous parks create a calm environment ideal for raising children. Homes often feature family-friendly layouts, mature landscaping, and quiet cul-de-sacs. With strong schools, after-school programs, community centers, and recreational facilities, the neighborhood offers plenty of opportunities for both education and play. Families appreciate the balance of peaceful living with nearby entertainment options, creating a well-rounded environment that supports daily comfort and long-term community ties.

Things to Do in Sherman Oaks

• Sherman Oaks Galleria – dining, movies, shops, and fitness studios

• Ventura Boulevard – a hotspot for trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and coffeehouses

• Van Nuys–Sherman Oaks Recreation Center – sports fields, playgrounds, and community events

• The Japanese Garden (nearby) – a tranquil, scenic escape

• Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve – nature walks, wildlife viewing, and peaceful loops

• Castle Park Mini Golf – fun for families and groups

• Local Farmers Markets in the nearby Valley communities

• Nearby hiking in Fryman Canyon, Westridge Trail, and Mulholland Drive

Schools