When Ryan Hurst bought his Woodland Hills home in 2013, he wasn’t just finding a place to live—he was making a wise investment in a coveted LA neighborhood. This 3,400-square-foot property, priced at $1.7 million, represents more than celebrity indulgence. It reveals the actor’s savvy approach to real estate in one of America’s most competitive housing markets.
Born on June 19, 1976, in Santa Monica, California, Ryan comes from a Hollywood family. His father, Rick Hurst, was an actor known for “The Dukes of Hazzard,” while his mother is Candace Kaniecki.
The $1.7M Woodland Hills House
Hurst’s Woodland Hills house sits on a generous lot in this upscale Los Angeles neighborhood. Purchased in 2013, this 3,400-square-foot home features five bedrooms and four bathrooms—plenty of space for the actor known for his portrayal of Opie Winston in the hit series “Sons of Anarchy.” The exact purchase price was $1.71 million, and the property sits on 0.39 acres of land. Built in 2005 in a New England traditional style, the house is gated and surrounded by trees, creating a private retreat away from the busy city.
The home stands out in this upscale neighborhood. Its price reflected Woodland Hills’ premium real estate market, an area that continues to attract celebrities and executives looking for privacy without sacrificing proximity to Hollywood studios. Today, the home’s value has increased significantly. Real estate prices in Woodland Hills have gone up by about 30% since 2013, putting the current value around $2.2 million.
Woodland Hills offers a unique blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Located in the southwestern region of the San Fernando Valley, the neighborhood provides easy access to shopping at Westfield Topanga, outdoor recreation at nearby Topanga State Park, and a straight shot to Malibu’s beaches. It’s located south of Ventura Boulevard and offers easy access to Topanga Lookout Trail, reportedly one of Ryan’s favorite hiking spots. The home is also close to Nine Treasures Yoga, where Ryan teaches Kundalini yoga classes.
Inside the home, vaulted wood-beamed ceilings create an open, airy feeling. The house features dormers throughout and beautiful distressed wood floors that add character and warmth. With four fireplaces spread across the home, there’s always a cozy spot to relax.
The kitchen boasts high-end Viking appliances, perfect for cooking family meals. A formal dining room with French doors opens to a shaded courtyard—ideal for both indoor and outdoor entertaining.
The master bedroom includes a comfortable window seat, a fireplace for chilly nights, and a large walk-in closet with built-in cabinetry. The master bathroom feels like a spa with its whirlpool tub, two-person shower, and another fireplace.
The backyard features a swimming pool surrounded by natural landscaping. A built-in BBQ area makes outdoor cooking easy and fun. A covered patio with built-in seating offers a perfect spot for relaxing or entertaining friends.
Who is Ryan Hurst?
While most fans know Hurst from his memorable roles in “Sons of Anarchy,” “Remember the Titans,” and more recently, “The Walking Dead,” his professional life extends well beyond Hollywood. He’s currently working on Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” set to release in July 2026.
He works as a security engineer at Google. His technical expertise and leadership in this field represent a significant departure from his on-screen persona. This dual career path suggests Hurst approaches his investments, including real estate, with careful consideration and strategic planning.
Beyond his work in entertainment and tech security, Hurst has also held the position of Vice President of Sales at Breakthru Beverage, demonstrating his business acumen across multiple industries. Since 2005, he has been married to Molly Cookson. Together, they started Fast Shoes, a production company. Beyond acting, Ryan follows Sikhism and goes by the name Gobind Seva Singh. He teaches Kundalini yoga and practices martial arts. As a co-founder of GMB Fitness, he helps others stay fit and healthy.
His security background might explain certain aspects of his property selection. Woodland Hills offers a level of privacy and security that would appeal to someone with professional experience in protection and risk management. The area’s large lots and natural landscapes provide privacy, a key priority for security-focused buyers.
The 2013 Purchase in LA
Hurst’s 2013 purchase of the Woodland Hills home demonstrates smart timing in the market. The LA housing market was rebounding from the 2008 crisis, with prices yet to hit later highs. By purchasing at this point in the market cycle, Hurst positioned himself to capture significant appreciation in the following decade.
The $1.7 million investment would likely translate to substantially more in today’s market. Woodland Hills property values have seen steady growth, with similar homes now commanding prices well above the original purchase amount. This appreciation represents not just inflation but genuine market growth in this desirable LA neighborhood.
The 2013 timeframe also coincided with a significant period in Hurst’s career. His role on “Sons of Anarchy” had cemented his status as a recognizable television star, likely providing the financial stability to make such a substantial real estate investment. Timing his home purchase with his career peak shows smart financial planning.
For perspective, the median home price in Woodland Hills has increased substantially since Hurst’s purchase. What cost $1.7 million in 2013 would likely fetch considerably more in the current market, potentially representing one of the actor’s most successful investments regardless of his diverse career achievements.
Woodland Hills House
The Woodland Hills community offers residents a distinctive lifestyle that balances natural beauty with upscale amenities. The neighborhood sits adjacent to the Santa Monica Mountains, providing breathtaking views and hiking trails steps from multimillion-dollar homes.
The area gives Hurst a quiet escape from Hollywood while staying close to studios and production facilities. The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets and spacious properties create a sense of escape that appeals to many entertainment industry professionals seeking a balance between work and personal life.
Local dining and shopping options cater to an affluent clientele, with high-end restaurants and boutiques populating the nearby commercial districts. The Westfield Topanga Mall provides luxury shopping experiences, while smaller specialty stores and farm-to-table restaurants reflect the area’s blend of sophistication and California casual lifestyle.
Good schools in Woodland Hills also boost home values. Top-rated public and private schools serve the area, making it attractive to families and forward-thinking investors who recognize education as a key driver of sustained property values.
The weather in Woodland Hills deserves special mention when discussing the area’s appeal. While still enjoying Southern California’s famous sunshine, the neighborhood experiences slightly more seasonal variation than coastal Los Angeles. Summer temperatures can climb higher, making private pools—a feature common in homes of this caliber—particularly valuable amenities.
Why Celebrity Homes in Woodland Hills Prioritize Privacy
Celebrity homeowners like Hurst typically prioritize privacy features, especially given his background in security engineering. While specific details about his property’s security measures remain appropriately private, homes in this neighborhood and price range commonly incorporate sophisticated protection systems.
Natural barriers often form the first line of defense for privacy-conscious homeowners. Mature landscaping, strategic placement of trees, and thoughtful garden design create visual shields from neighboring properties and public roads. These natural elements serve both aesthetic and practical purposes, enhancing curb appeal while maintaining seclusion.
Modern security technology likely features prominently in Hurst’s property. Given his professional background at Google, one might reasonably assume his home incorporates cutting-edge security systems that protect without detracting from the property’s livability. The best security measures remain invisible to guests while providing comprehensive protection.
Architectural choices in celebrity homes often reflect privacy concerns as well. Features like courtyard designs, strategic window placement, and thoughtful orientation of outdoor living spaces can dramatically enhance privacy without creating a fortress-like atmosphere. These design elements allow celebrities to enjoy their homes without feeling constantly exposed.
Gated communities within Woodland Hills provide an additional layer of security for high-profile residents. While public records don’t specify whether Hurst’s home sits within such an enclave, these communities offer controlled access points that limit unwanted visitors—a valuable feature for someone who has experienced the intense fan attention that comes with starring roles on popular shows.
Ryan’s New York City Apartment
Beyond his California property, Hurst owns a second home in New York City. This 1,200-square-foot apartment is located on West 89th Street in Manhattan’s Upper West Side. With 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, it’s smaller than his California home but spacious by Manhattan standards.
Property values on the Upper West Side have risen steadily. A comparable apartment in this neighborhood now sells for about $1.5-1.8 million.
The NYC apartment probably mixes classic and modern styles. While specific details aren’t public, Upper West Side apartments typically feature high ceilings, large windows, and pre-war architectural details.
Living in both Los Angeles and New York provides strategic advantages for an actor. Hurst can attend auditions and meetings on either coast without travel hassles. The Upper West Side location gives him easy access to casting offices, theaters, and filming locations across Manhattan.
This neighborhood offers a completely different lifestyle from Woodland Hills. Within walking distance are cultural spots like the American Museum of Natural History and Lincoln Center. Central Park sits just blocks away. Several yoga studios and fitness centers nearby support his wellness practices.
Personal Lifestyle and Home Features
Hurst’s homes likely include spaces that honor his Sikh faith. These might be dedicated rooms or areas for prayer, meditation, and spiritual practice.
As a Kundalini yoga teacher, he probably has space for his practice. Simple features like wood floors, good lighting, and wall space for props would support his yoga routine.
Given his involvement with GMB Fitness and martial arts training, Hurst likely has areas in both homes for physical training. His California home, with more space, might include equipment for strength training and martial arts practice.
These spaces would reflect his fitness philosophy, which focuses on functional movement and body awareness rather than just aesthetics.
His homes balance private retreats with family spaces. The five bedrooms in his Woodland Hills house provide plenty of room for family and guests.
Common areas like living rooms and the outdoor spaces in California create gathering spots where Ryan, Molly, and their children can spend quality time together despite busy schedules.
Both homes likely have dedicated areas for the Fast Shoes production company’s work. These spaces might include desks, computers, and meeting areas.
Hurst probably has a quiet spot for reading scripts and preparing for roles. He might also have basic recording equipment for auditions or voice work.
Investment Value in Woodland Hills
The value of Hurst’s Woodland Hills investment is clearer when looking at long-term trends in this LA area. Properties in this neighborhood have historically maintained strong appreciation rates, outperforming many other areas during market fluctuations.
Several factors contribute to Woodland Hills’ resilience as a real estate investment. Its geographic constraints—bordered by mountains and protected lands—create natural limits to new development. This supply constraint, coupled with consistent demand from affluent buyers, helps maintain upward pressure on home values even during broader market corrections.
The neighborhood’s excellent schools further stabilize property values. Educational quality ranks among the top considerations for homebuyers across all price points, and Woodland Hills’ strong school options create sustained demand regardless of other market conditions.
For investors like Hurst who purchased in 2013, the timing proved particularly advantageous. Los Angeles County home prices have seen substantial gains since then, with luxury properties in prime locations like Woodland Hills often outperforming county-wide averages. While specific appreciation figures for Hurst’s property remain private, comparable homes have seen value increases well above normal inflation rates.
The home could also generate rental income if Hurst ever leases it out. Rental rates for luxury homes in Woodland Hills command premium prices, providing options for homeowners who travel frequently for work or maintain multiple residences, common scenarios for successful entertainment professionals. By owning homes in entertainment hubs on both coasts, Hurst has created not just comfortable living spaces but also wise financial investments.
Los Angeles Connections
Hurst’s professional relationships likely influenced his real estate decisions. His LinkedIn profile shows connections to security leadership roles and endorsements from colleagues in boththe entertainment and technology sectors. These professional networks reflect someone with ties across multiple Los Angeles industries—connections that often guide neighborhood preferences and property selections.
His work with Entrust in advisory security roles positions him within technology circles that extend beyond entertainment. This professional diversity mirrors the eclectic neighborhood composition of Woodland Hills, which houses residents from entertainment, technology, finance, and healthcare sectors.
Los Angeles real estate often serves as both home and networking hub for professionals straddling multiple industries. Properties like Hurst’s Woodland Hills house provide suitable spaces for informal business meetings and industry gatherings—another layer of value beyond simple residential utility.
The privacy afforded by Woodland Hills properties makes them particularly suitable for someone balancing public recognition with private business dealings. Hurst’s choice reflects a common pattern among entertainment professionals who seek residential environments compatible with their multifaceted careers.
Woodland Hills Real Estate
As Los Angeles continues evolving, neighborhoods like Woodland Hills face interesting transitions. The area’s relative affordability compared to westside communities like Brentwood or Pacific Palisades makes it increasingly attractive to buyers seeking more space without sacrificing proximity to entertainment and technology hubs.
Recent work-from-home trends have only enhanced Woodland Hills’ appeal. Properties with generous square footage and dedicated office spaces—likely features of Hurst’s 3,400-square-foot home—command premium prices in a market where remote work capabilities influence buying decisions more than ever before.
For homeowners like Hurst who purchased before these shifts, the changing market dynamics potentially enhance their investment returns. The neighborhood’s blend of space, privacy, and accessibility positions it perfectly for current buyer preferences, which increasingly favor room for home offices and outdoor living areas.
Development trends in surrounding areas also impact Woodland Hills property values. Nearby Warner Center continues its transformation into a mixed-use urban center, bringing additional amenities within easy reach while potentially increasing traffic and density. This evolution requires careful monitoring by property owners interested in long-term value protection.
Climate considerations affect future outlook as well. Woodland Hills’ location near canyon areas requires thoughtful attention to wildfire preparedness—an increasingly important factor in Southern California real estate valuation. Properties with fire-resistant landscaping and construction may command additional premiums in the coming years.
