Venice Development and Business: 2025 Snapshot

Venice is busy reinventing itself again. After a few slower years, construction is picking up, especially east of Lincoln, and the data makes it clear this wave isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

Renewal on the East Side

East of Lincoln Boulevard, between Victory Avenue, Palms Boulevard, and Penmar Avenue, the sound of saws and hammers is back. What used to be a quieter residential zone is now packed with new permits and remodeling projects.

Recently finalized permits confirm the trend started several years back. More construction usually brings cleaner streets and stronger property values, though it also adds to density and daily noise.

For homeowners, this is the start of a value climb. For buyers, it’s an early sign that today’s “sleepy” corners of Venice are tomorrow’s hot zones.

 New building and demolition permits, issued 2024–2025. The east side lights up with activity.

Finalized building and demolition permits, 2024–2025. The east side catching up to the west.

The ADU Boom

Venice has gone all in on backyard living. Accessory Dwelling Units, better known as ADUs, have become the local signature move. They’re especially common east of Lincoln, where bigger lots make them easier to build and rent out.

Permits for ADUs have increased by roughly ten a year since 2020. It’s a smart shift for both sides of the housing equation: homeowners gain steady income, and renters get more options without leaving the neighborhood.

The Dogtown Realty team has noticed the same thing. More clients are asking how to build or buy with ADUs in mind. Whether it’s a short-term rental, an in-law suite, or a passive income project, it’s one of the most practical investments in Venice right now.

Alterations and repairs vs. ADU construction, 2021–2025. East of Lincoln dominates the map.

Where Multifamily Growth Happens

While single-family homes and ADUs dominate east of Lincoln, multifamily projects still cluster along Venice Boulevard and west toward the canals. Proximity to transit, walkability, and zoning flexibility make this side of town ideal for higher-density builds.

For residents, this means more rental and condo options, not just luxury developments. For investors, it’s proof that Venice remains one of the few LA neighborhoods where creative density still feels like a good thing.

Multifamily new construction permits, issued 2021–2025. Most projects follow Venice Boulevard toward the beach.

Changing Patterns in Permits

After a strong run-up through 2021, building permits dipped briefly, then surged again in 2024. It’s a small but clear sign that developer confidence is back.

Finalized permits fell sharply after 2014 and are finally recovering in 2025. This lag between planning and completion speaks to higher construction costs and city delays. When finalized permits rise, it signals that Venice is open for business again.

For anyone tracking long-term growth or timing a property move, these numbers matter. They show when investors are jumping in, not just talking about it.

Commercial and creative space conversions, 2020–2025. Clusters appear along Abbot Kinney and Lincoln Boulevard.

 Issued vs. Finalized Permits, 2014–2025. New permits are trending upward again, but completions lag behind. It shows strong confidence in Venice development with slower follow-through, likely due to higher costs and longer build times.

From Retail to Creative Services

Venice’s work culture is shifting too. Traditional retail storefronts are being replaced by studios, creative agencies, production spaces, and local service businesses. The neighborhood has leaned hard into what it does best: art, design, and individuality.

The result is an economy that feels more personal and local. For small business owners, it’s the perfect time to claim space before it’s gone. For residents, it’s another reminder that Venice’s creative streak is what keeps the area thriving.

Top 10 Business Categories in Venice, 2015. Retail still ruled the streets, with restaurants, boutiques, and tourist-driven shops dominating the local scene.

Top 10 Business Categories in Venice, 2025. Creative and service-based industries have taken over. Think design studios, production companies, wellness services, and real estate — Venice’s work life now mirrors its personality.

Greening the Map

Even as density increases, Venice’s trees still tell the story of balance. Areas with strong canopy coverage are holding steady, but others could use more planting to keep the neighborhood from feeling overheated or overbuilt.

Dogtown Realty keeps a close eye on how the physical environment affects local property trends. Streets with healthy trees tend to photograph better, feel cooler, and attract more buyer interest. It’s less about curb appeal and more about livability. Those small details are what make Venice special and keep people wanting to stay here.

Tree distribution across Venice streets. The west side holds stronger canopy coverage, while the east is thinning.

What It Means for the Community

Venice’s evolution isn’t happening through massive redevelopment, but through thousands of small decisions: backyard cottages, remodels, studio builds, and new mixed-use spots. Each one reshapes the neighborhood in subtle ways.

Growth brings opportunity, but it also calls for balance. Venice needs to stay green, stay creative, and stay true to itself, even as it changes.

If you’re curious what these shifts mean for your property or your next move, our team at Dogtown Realty is here to help you make sense of it all.

Reach out for a local market analysis or meet us for a coffee at Dogtown Coffee. Let’s talk about Venice, what’s changing, what’s coming next, and how it all fits into your goals.