Chatsworth's housing is distinguished by its larger lots and equestrian zoning, uncommon for Los Angeles. The stock ranges from ranch-style homes and horse properties to newer single-family houses, with some gated and hillside communities near the Santa Susana Pass. The lower density and presence of bridle paths shape the market's character, attracting buyers who want room for horses, workshops, or simply more space than denser Valley neighborhoods offer. Homes span several decades of construction across the neighborhood's 15 square miles.

Chatsworth is a broad, low-density neighborhood bounded by Porter Ranch to the north, Northridge to the east, and West Hills and Canoga Park to the south, running west to the Santa Susana Pass. Its areas take character from the landscape: streets near Stoney Point and the railroad corridor, equestrian-oriented neighborhoods with larger lots, and hillside communities climbing toward the Simi Hills. The Chatsworth Transportation Center and the 118 Freeway corridor anchor the neighborhood's edges and connect it to the rest of the Valley.

Chatsworth offers a quieter, more spacious way of life than most of Los Angeles. Its equestrian heritage is still visible in horse-keeping properties, bridle paths, and the trails around Chatsworth Park South, while Stoney Point draws climbers and hikers to its sandstone formations. The neighborhood's filming history and semi-rural character give it a distinct identity within the Valley. Residents value the combination of larger lots, open space, and a working rail link downtown, along with easy access to the 118 Freeway and neighboring Valley communities.

Chatsworth is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District, with local campuses including Big Springs Elementary, one of the area's highly rated schools. The neighborhood's public schools feed into LAUSD's Valley middle and high schools, while private options such as Sierra Canyon School in neighboring Porter Ranch offer alternatives. The area's school options, combined with its larger lots and family-oriented character, make it a common choice for households raising children in the western Valley.

Chatsworth is unusually well connected by rail for a Valley neighborhood. The Chatsworth Transportation Center is served by Metrolink's Ventura County Line and Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner, with a planned future connection to Metro's D Line. The 118 Freeway runs along the neighborhood's northern edge, and Topanga Canyon Boulevard provides a major north-south route through the area. These links give residents commuter options into downtown Los Angeles, Ventura County, and the broader region, alongside the Valley's road network.

Chatsworth's recreation is shaped by its geology and open space. Stoney Point offers bouldering and rock climbing on ancient sandstone formations, while Chatsworth Park South provides more than 100 acres with an equestrian center, hiking trails, sports courts, and picnic areas. The adjacent Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park covers 680 acres along the county line, popular with hikers and equestrians, and the Chatsworth Nature Preserve and nearby Simi Hills trails add further outdoor options. The neighborhood's bridle paths make horseback riding part of everyday recreation.