I'm responding to a post from many months ago, but thought I'd add a little info. I've been here in LA for about a year and half now and don't drive. It has not been a propblem at all. I live in Glendale. The Glendale BeeLine will take you anywhere in the city you want to go and there are bus stops everywhere. Its only 35 cents and 25 for senior's.
Within 5 to 10 minutes the Beeline will get you to Galleria, Glendale College, downtown, and the metro station. Low cost, no parking, no stress and you can feel good that you are not adding to the traffic and smog. There are so many supermarkets out here that it is unlikely one will not be in walking distance. I live 2 blocks from Ralph's and enjoy the walk. People complain that people in LA don't get to know eachother and that it is hard to make friends here but all they need to do is GET OUT OF THEIR CARS!!! I meet new people, enjoy the sunny weather and have really gotten to know my neighborhood. Granted, my boyfriend drives so when a car is essential I hitch a ride with him. But I'm completely independant and I'm free from car payments, isurance, stress. I love it!