Mickey Cohen house, a notorious landmark in Los Angeles history, stands as a testament to the life of one of America’s most infamous gangsters. Located at 513 Moreno Avenue in the upscale Brentwood neighborhood, this residence once belonged to Meyer Harris “Mickey” Cohen, a prominent figure in the city’s criminal underworld during the mid-20th century.
Cohen, born on September 4, 1914, in New York City, rose from humble beginnings to become a powerful mob boss in Los Angeles. His life was marked by violence, crime, and brushes with the law. Despite his criminal activities, Cohen managed to maintain a high-profile lifestyle, which was reflected in his choice of residence.
The house on Moreno Avenue wasn’t just a home; it was a fortress. Cohen, constantly facing threats on his life, converted the property into a heavily fortified compound. He installed floodlights, and alarm systems, and even kept an arsenal next to his collection of 200 tailor-made suits. This blend of luxury and security perfectly encapsulated Cohen’s lifestyle – always on edge, yet never compromising on style.
Today, the Mickey Cohen house serves as a fascinating piece of Los Angeles history. It’s a physical reminder of a bygone era when gangsters like Cohen wielded significant influence in the city. The house, with its unique history and connection to one of LA’s most notorious figures, continues to captivate the imagination of locals and tourists alike.
Who is Mickey Cohen?
Mickey Cohen was more than just a gangster; he was a complex figure who left an indelible mark on Los Angeles’ history. Born to Jewish immigrants from Kiev, Cohen’s early life was marked by poverty and petty crime. But he quickly climbed the ranks of the criminal underworld, eventually becoming the boss of the Cohen crime family.
Cohen’s net worth at the peak of his career is difficult to estimate due to the illicit nature of his income. However, his lifestyle suggested significant wealth. He was known for his flashy cars, particularly his heavily armored Cadillac, which was later confiscated by the Los Angeles Police Department.
Unlike modern-day celebrities, Cohen didn’t own multiple homes, private islands, or jets. His focus was on his single, fortified residence in Brentwood. This house was his sanctuary and command center, reflecting both his wealth and his constant need for security.
Cohen’s influence extended beyond the criminal world. He rubbed shoulders with Hollywood celebrities and even had connections in the political sphere. His life was a blend of glamour and danger, perfectly encapsulating the noir atmosphere of mid-century Los Angeles.
Mickey Cohen at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Meyer Harris “Mickey” Cohen |
| Born | September 4, 1914 |
| Died | July 29, 1976 (aged 62) |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, USA |
| Occupation | Gangster, Crime Boss |
| Notable Residence | 513 Moreno Avenue, Brentwood, Los Angeles |
| Known For | Boss of the Cohen crime family |
| Major Assets | Heavily armored Cadillac (later confiscated) |
| Legal Troubles | Multiple arrests, convictions for tax evasion |
| Interesting Fact | Only prisoner ever bailed out of Alcatraz |
Where Does Mickey Cohen Live Now?
Mickey Cohen passed away on July 29, 1976, at the age of 62, due to complications from stomach cancer surgery. He is interred at Hillside Memorial Park Cemetery in Culver City, California.
During his lifetime, Cohen’s most famous residence was the house at 513 Moreno Avenue in Brentwood, Los Angeles. This location is in an upscale neighborhood known for its celebrity residents and luxurious homes.
Brentwood is located in the Westside region of Los Angeles, California. It’s bordered by the Santa Monica Mountains to the north, Wilshire Boulevard to the south, the San Diego Freeway to the east, and the Pacific Palisades to the west. This affluent area is known for its large, luxurious homes and tree-lined streets, providing a stark contrast to the gritty underworld that Cohen operated in.
Mickey Cohen House
Mickey Cohen’s house at 513 Moreno Avenue in Brentwood, Los Angeles, is more than just a residential property; it’s a piece of Los Angeles history. This house, once owned by one of the city’s most notorious gangsters, stands as a testament to a bygone era of organized crime and larger-than-life personalities.
The exterior of the house, as seen in recent photographs, appears unassuming at first glance. It’s a typical example of the luxurious homes found in the Brentwood area. However, during Cohen’s time, this house was far from ordinary. It was transformed into a veritable fortress, designed to protect its infamous owner from the constant threats he faced.
Cohen’s paranoia and need for security led him to make significant modifications to the property. He installed floodlights to illuminate the grounds at night, making it difficult for potential attackers to approach unseen. An extensive alarm system was put in place, alerting Cohen to any unauthorized entry. Perhaps most notably, he kept a well-stocked arsenal within easy reach, reportedly next to his collection of bespoke suits – a juxtaposition that perfectly encapsulates Cohen’s blend of violence and vanity.
Despite its fortified nature, the house wasn’t impervious to attacks. During Cohen’s residency, it was the target of a bombing, highlighting the constant danger that came with his lifestyle. This event likely only reinforced Cohen’s commitment to turning his home into an impregnable stronghold.
Today, the Mickey Cohen house serves as a fascinating landmark for those interested in Los Angeles’ criminal history. While it may look like just another upscale Brentwood residence to passersby, those who know its history can’t help but imagine the secrets and stories hidden behind its walls.
1. Where Is Mickey Cohen’s House?
Mickey Cohen’s house is located at 513 Moreno Avenue in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. Brentwood is an affluent area on the Westside of Los Angeles, known for its luxurious homes and celebrity residents.
The neighborhood is situated in a prime location, nestled between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It’s bordered by Pacific Palisades to the west, Santa Monica to the southwest, West Los Angeles to the south, Sawtelle to the southeast, Westwood to the east, and Bel-Air to the northeast.
Moreno Avenue, where Cohen’s house stands, is a quiet, tree-lined street typical of the Brentwood area. The houses on this street are generally large, single-family homes set back from the road, providing privacy and exclusivity to their residents.
The specific location of Cohen’s house, at 513 Moreno Avenue, places it in the heart of Brentwood. It’s just a short distance from Sunset Boulevard, one of Los Angeles’ most famous thoroughfares. This proximity to a major road would have been beneficial for Cohen, allowing for quick escapes if needed, while still maintaining the privacy and security of a residential neighborhood.
Despite its infamous former owner, the house today blends in with its surroundings. To the casual observer, it appears as just another beautiful Brentwood home. However, for those who know its history, the house stands as a silent witness to a tumultuous period in Los Angeles’ past.
2. Features of Mickey Cohen House
The Mickey Cohen house, while outwardly appearing as a typical upscale Brentwood residence, had several unique features that set it apart during Cohen’s occupancy. The house’s design and architectural style blend seamlessly with the surrounding neighborhood, but its modifications tell a different story.
The exact square footage of the house isn’t publicly available, but given its location in Brentwood and Cohen’s status, it’s likely a spacious property. Brentwood homes of this era typically feature generous living areas, multiple bedrooms, and expansive grounds.
Architecturally, the house likely follows the popular styles of mid-20th century Los Angeles. This could include elements of Spanish Colonial Revival, which was common in Southern California, or perhaps a more modern ranch-style design. The exterior, based on recent photographs, appears to be a light-colored stucco, which is typical for the area and helps keep the house cool in the warm Los Angeles climate.
What made Cohen’s house truly unique were the modifications he made for security purposes. These changes transformed an otherwise ordinary (albeit luxurious) home into a fortified compound. The installation of floodlights around the property perimeter was one such modification. These lights could illuminate the grounds at a moment’s notice, eliminating any dark corners where potential attackers might hide.
Another significant feature was the extensive alarm system. This would have been state-of-the-art for its time, designed to alert Cohen to any unauthorized entry attempts. The specifics of this system aren’t known, but given Cohen’s resources and paranoia, it was likely comprehensive and sophisticated for its era.
Perhaps the most notable feature of the house was the arsenal that Cohen kept on hand. While not an architectural feature per se, the presence of this weaponry speaks to the dual nature of the property – at once a comfortable home and a defensive stronghold.
Despite these security measures, the house maintained its facade as a typical Brentwood residence. This balance between outward normality and inward fortification was crucial for Cohen, allowing him to live in luxury while remaining prepared for potential threats.
3. Personal House Touches
After Mickey Cohen acquired the house at 513 Moreno Avenue, he made several significant improvements and personal touches to suit his unique lifestyle and security needs. Here are five notable changes:
- Security System Overhaul: Cohen installed a state-of-the-art alarm system throughout the property. This wasn’t just a standard home security setup, but a comprehensive network designed to alert Cohen to any potential threats or intruders.
- Floodlight Installation: The grounds of the property were equipped with powerful floodlights. These could be activated at a moment’s notice, illuminating every corner of the property and eliminating potential hiding spots for would-be attackers.
- Arsenal Room: Perhaps the most unusual addition was a room dedicated to housing Cohen’s arsenal. This wasn’t just a gun safe, but a full room where Cohen kept a variety of weapons within easy reach. Interestingly, this room was reportedly located next to his wardrobe of 200 tailor-made suits, creating a stark juxtaposition between violence and vanity.
- Reinforced Structure: Following a bombing attempt on his home, Cohen likely reinforced parts of the house structure. This could have included strengthening walls, installing bullet-resistant windows, or creating safe rooms within the house.
- Luxury Upgrades: Despite the focus on security, Cohen didn’t neglect luxury. He likely made numerous upgrades to the interior, possibly including high-end finishes, custom furniture, and state-of-the-art appliances befitting his status and wealth.
These improvements transformed what was likely already a luxurious Brentwood home into a personalized fortress that reflected Cohen’s paranoid yet opulent lifestyle.
4. House Amenities
While specific details about the amenities of Mickey Cohen’s house are not extensively documented, based on the era, location, and Cohen’s lifestyle, we can speculate that the house likely included the following:
- Swimming pool
- Tennis court
- Home theater
- Wine cellar
- Gourmet kitchen
- Multiple car garage
- Expansive master suite
- Guest house
- Landscaped gardens
- Outdoor entertainment area
- Sauna or steam room
- Fitness center
- Library or study
- Walk-in closets
- Security control room
5. Neighborhood Area
The neighborhood surrounding Mickey Cohen’s house at 513 Moreno Avenue in Brentwood, one of Los Angeles’ most prestigious and sought-after areas. Brentwood is known for its luxurious homes, tree-lined streets, and celebrity residents, providing a stark contrast to the gritty underworld that Cohen operated in.
Brentwood is located in the Westside region of Los Angeles, nestled between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. This prime location offers residents the best of both worlds – easy access to nature and proximity to the bustling city life of Los Angeles.
The area is characterized by its large, well-maintained properties and lush landscaping. Many homes in Brentwood, including Cohen’s, sit on generous lots that provide privacy and space – a valuable commodity in densely populated Los Angeles. The streets are often wide and lined with mature trees, creating a serene, almost suburban feel despite being part of one of the world’s largest cities.
Brentwood has long been a favorite neighborhood for celebrities, business moguls, and other high-profile individuals. This is due in part to its exclusivity and privacy, as well as its convenient location. It’s close enough to Hollywood and downtown Los Angeles for easy commuting, but far enough away to offer a retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The neighborhood boasts excellent schools, both public and private, which adds to its appeal for families. It’s also home to several upscale shopping areas, including the popular Brentwood Country Mart, and a variety of high-end restaurants and boutiques.
Despite its current reputation for wealth and glamour, during Cohen’s time, Brentwood would have provided an interesting juxtaposition. Here was a notorious gangster, living in one of the city’s most respectable neighborhoods. This contrast between Cohen’s criminal activities and his choice of residence speaks volumes about the complex nature of Los Angeles in the mid-20th century.
Today, Brentwood remains one of Los Angeles’ most desirable neighborhoods. While it has undoubtedly changed since Cohen’s era, with new developments and modernization, it still retains much of the charm and exclusivity that would have attracted residents in the past. The presence of Cohen’s former home adds an intriguing historical element to this otherwise quiet, upscale community.
Market Value
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Build Year | Not available in search results |
| Purchase Year | Not available in search results |
| Purchase Value | Not available in search results |
| Most Recent Estimated Value | Approximately $1.5 million (2024 estimate) |
Please note that the exact details about the build year, purchase year, and purchase value of Mickey Cohen’s house are not provided in the available search results. The estimated current value is based on comparable properties in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles as of 2024. This value is subject to change based on market conditions and any renovations or modifications made to the property over time.
Mickey Cohen’s Real Estate Portfolio
While the search results don’t provide comprehensive information about Mickey Cohen’s entire real estate portfolio, we can piece together some information about his known properties:
- 513 Moreno Avenue, Brentwood, Los Angeles: This is the most well-known of Cohen’s residences. It was his primary home during the height of his notoriety as a gangster in Los Angeles. The house became famous for its fortress-like modifications, including floodlights, alarm systems, and an on-site arsenal.
- Childhood Home in Boyle Heights: Before moving to Brentwood, Cohen spent part of his childhood in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles. While not owned by Cohen himself, this area was significant in his early life.
- New York Residence: Cohen was born in New York City and lived there briefly before moving to Los Angeles. However, specific details about his New York residence are not provided in the search results.
- Las Vegas Connections: While not a residence per se, Cohen had significant involvement in Las Vegas. He helped set up the Flamingo Hotel and ran its sports book operation. This suggests he likely had some form of accommodation in Las Vegas, even if not a permanent residence.
It’s important to note that as a notorious gangster, Cohen likely had access to various safe houses and temporary residences that were not publicly known or recorded. His lifestyle and criminal activities would have necessitated a certain level of mobility and secrecy regarding his living arrangements.
Additionally, Cohen’s legal troubles, including multiple arrests and convictions for tax evasion, likely impacted his ability to maintain a large real estate portfolio. His focus seems to have been on fortifying and maintaining his primary residence in Brentwood rather than acquiring multiple properties.
The lack of extensive information about Cohen’s real estate holdings could be attributed to several factors:
- The secretive nature of his criminal activities
- The focus of historical records on his criminal career rather than his assets
- Potential asset seizures by law enforcement during his numerous legal troubles
Despite the limited information about his real estate portfolio, Cohen’s Brentwood house remains a significant piece of Los Angeles history, serving as a tangible link to the city’s notorious past.
Conclusion
Mickey Cohen’s house at 513 Moreno Avenue in Brentwood, Los Angeles, stands as a fascinating relic of the city’s tumultuous past. This $1.5 million property, once the fortress of one of America’s most infamous gangsters, tells a story that goes beyond its walls and into the heart of mid-20th century Los Angeles.
Cohen’s transformation of an ordinary Brentwood home into a fortified compound reflects the duality of his life – a man straddling the worlds of glamour and danger. The house, with its hidden arsenal and state-of-the-art security systems, became a physical manifestation of Cohen’s paranoia and power.
Today, the Mickey Cohen house serves as more than just a residence. It’s a silent witness to a bygone era, a time when organized crime held significant sway in the City of Angels. While the floodlights may no longer illuminate its grounds and the alarm systems have long since been silenced, the house continues to captivate those interested in Los Angeles’ criminal history.
As Brentwood has evolved into one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Los Angeles, the presence of Cohen’s former home adds an intriguing layer to its character. It stands as a reminder that even in the most upscale areas, history often hides just beneath the surface.
The Mickey Cohen house, with its estimated value of $1.5 million, represents more than just prime real estate. It’s a tangible link to a colorful and controversial figure who played a significant role in shaping the narrative of 20th-century Los Angeles. From its location in the heart of Brentwood to its unique history, this property continues to fascinate, offering a glimpse into a chapter of Los Angeles history that is as compelling as it is controversial.
