My two cents with a few caveats: I have been accepted to UCLA's health policy program, but it is not actually my top choice. Also, I am originally from L.A., so I may be biased. Though I have not lived in the area for some time, I travel there frequently, as my family still lives there.
UCLA is an excellent school, particularly in community-based programs. The school is a reflection of the city in that "people of color" or other underserved communities are central to the mission of the university in general and of the public health school in particular. If you are looking at programs with a focus on meeting health disparity at the community level, you cannot go wrong with UCLA.
Westwood is expensive but not impossible. As a graduate student, you will likely live off-campus, like many other graduate students. There may be reasonable rent in the area, but it is not unreasonable to live outside the Westwood area. Whatever the environmental and social implications, a car is highly recommended - though again, doable without if you can manage. (I grew up in L.A., I cannot fathom not having a car in California. Besides, your eventual practicum may be far.) Perhaps you can live in a "cheaper" area, in which case a car is probably needed. In addition, Westwood is a university "town." Like other areas in the country where a large university is located, the university "makes the town." Needless to say, there will be a large contingent of stores, accommodations, etc., that cater specifically to university students. Whether this appeals to you or not, of course it is a personal choice. (If possible, I personally would not live in Westwood only because I prefer to separate my school life from my personal life. Los Angeles is conglomerate, for better or for worse. This also means plenty of choices in which to live specific to your needs.)
I would take a closer look at the curriculum. Is it a good match? Did the program give you a contact person/liaison? (They did with my policy admissions offer.) I also like to take a closer look at the kind of students programs admit - say, students out of undergrad versus students with years of experience or advanced degrees. (This is a personal preference, of course, but for me it matters a great deal.) Is it possible to talk directly to a current student? Is there a Facebook page? (This is how I found a current student in another program.) UCLA and the city will offer plentiful opportunities for the required practicum. Is there a handbook or guide available online that shows where students have done their practicum? (BU has this, for example. I do not mean a list, I mean an actual accounting of "students' perspectives.")
Good luck!
