Here's some news that you can choose to take as either reassuring or depressing: the rental vacancy rate is at a historically low 2.7 percent, according to recent data from the US Census Bureau.
This statistic in Los Angeles is usually well below the national average (which, right now, stands at 7 percent), and the new extreme is the result of a gradual decline. In the beginning of 2015, for example, the rate was 3.8 percent. In 2010, the rate was 6 percent.
Los Angeles is also the major metro area with the fewest available rentals. Technically San Jose; Portland, Oregon; and Allentown, Pennsylvania all had lower rates, but are they really major metro areas? Let's get real, census bureau.
So back to the choice at hand: you can choose to take this information as confirmation that, indeed, you are not insane—it really is impossible to find a place to rent in this city. And with that information you can adjust your expectations of finding a new apartment, and ultimately achieve peace of mind. Or, you can spiral into a pit of despair that you will never move, or find a nice place to live. Take your pick.