Pasadena

Welcome to Pasadena, California, often referred to as the “Crown City,” is a place where culture, history, and community converge to create an ideal living environment.

Pasadena’s Points of Interest:

Pasadena boasts a plethora of attractions and points of interest that cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. Here are some of the city’s standout landmarks and cultural hotspots:

1. The Rose Bowl: This iconic stadium, home to the annual Rose Bowl Game, attracts sports enthusiasts from far and wide. It’s not just about football, though; the Rose Bowl also hosts concerts, flea markets, and fireworks displays.
2. Old Town Pasadena: A bustling district with a rich history, Old Town Pasadena offers a delightful blend of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Its charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.
3. Norton Simon Museum: Art aficionados will appreciate the extensive collection of European, South Asian, and Southeast Asian art housed in this museum. It’s a cultural gem that provides endless opportunities for exploration and appreciation.
4. Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens: This exquisite estate offers a world-class library, art collections, and stunning botanical gardens. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in the beauty of nature and human creativity.
5. Pasadena Playhouse: For those with a love for the performing arts, the Pasadena Playhouse is a historic theater that has hosted numerous renowned productions over the years.

Exploring Pasadena’s Neighborhoods:

Pasadena’s neighborhoods are as diverse as its attractions, each with its own unique character and charm. Here’s a glimpse into some of the most prominent neighborhoods:

1. Bungalow Heaven: Known for its well-preserved Craftsman-style homes, Bungalow Heaven is a historic neighborhood that exudes vintage charm. It’s a haven for architecture enthusiasts and lovers of classic design.
2. Madison Heights: Nestled close to Old Town Pasadena, Madison Heights is a sought-after neighborhood with tree-lined streets and a mix of architectural styles. It’s a quiet, family-friendly area that provides easy access to the city’s amenities.
3. South Lake: This neighborhood is synonymous with upscale shopping and dining, offering a luxurious urban experience. South Lake is also home to beautiful residential areas, providing a balance between convenience and tranquility.
4. East Pasadena: A more suburban feel awaits in East Pasadena, where spacious homes and quiet streets cater to families seeking a tranquil suburban lifestyle. The abundance of parks and schools makes it an attractive choice for residents.
5. Oak Knoll: Known for its large estates and stately mansions, Oak Knoll exudes an air of elegance and sophistication. It’s a neighborhood that appeals to those who appreciate luxury and prestige.

Why People Choose to Live in Pasadena:

So, what draws people to Pasadena, you might wonder? Let’s delve into some of the compelling reasons that make this city an enticing place to live:

1. Rich Cultural Scene: Pasadena’s thriving cultural scene ensures residents access world-class museums, theaters, and galleries. The city’s commitment to the arts enriches the lives of its inhabitants.
2. Educational Excellence: Pasadena is home to renowned institutions like the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and the ArtCenter College of Design. The city’s commitment to education and research is a magnet for academics and students.
3. Communal Green Spaces: The abundance of parks and recreational areas in Pasadena, including the beloved Arroyo Seco, provides opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Residents can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking amidst natural beauty.
4. Culinary Delights: Pasadena’s dining scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. From international cuisine to local favorites, there’s no shortage of delectable options to satisfy every palate.
5. Strong Sense of Community: Robbyn, you’re no stranger to the importance of community, and Pasadena excels in fostering a strong sense of togetherness. Events like the annual Rose Parade bring residents together to celebrate tradition and unity.

Pasadena, California, is a city that captivates both the heart and mind. Its diverse neighborhoods, rich cultural scene, educational opportunities, communal green spaces, and strong sense of community make it an irresistible destination for individuals and families alike. Whether you’re exploring real estate opportunities or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the vibrant life of the Foothills, Pasadena has something special to offer to everyone. Thank you for joining us on this journey through the Crown City.

Homes for Sale in Pasadena, CA

Pasadena is only 25 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, but those few miles that separate the two, make an enormous difference. Where Los Angeles thrives on an almost frenetic, fast-paced lifestyle, Pasadena offers suburban charm in a laid-back setting. For those looking for a more tranquil area, where life is lived to a more natural rhythm, Pasadena might just fit the bill.

Let’s dig deeper into what makes Pasadena such an attractive place to live, and why so many find it the perfect place to call home.

WELCOME TO PASADENA, CA!

Pasadena is a suburban city located in Los Angeles County. With more than 138,600 residents, it’s the most populous city and major commercial hub in San Gabriel Valley, a region that includes cities like Pomona and El Monte. Pasadena is bordered by Glendale to the west, Altadena to the north, and Temple City to the southeast. The city of Los Angeles is a mere 10 miles southwest.

The San Gabriel Mountains and the San Rafael Hills make up Pasadena’s beautiful backdrop, while its palm tree-lined streets add to its distinctly Californian charm. Known for its historic architecture, cultural landmarks, and vibrant community, Pasadena offers a mix of urban amenities while keeping a residential feel; appealing for homeowners looking for a balanced lifestyle.

HOMES FOR SALE IN PASADENA, CA

Buyers looking for Pasadena, CA homes for sale will find a variety of properties on offer. Single-family homes are the most common housing type here, and they range from charming, modestly-sized homes to upscale, multimillion-dollar properties. Many are located close to neighborhood parks, schools, and entertainment centers, giving easy access to the area’s top amenities.

Condominiums and multifamily homes also make up a significant portion of the Pasadena real estate market, providing ample opportunities for buyers looking for special amenities or a more low-maintenance lifestyle.

Architecture

Pasadena is a city with a rich history, and it’s reflected in its housing. Nearly a third of its housing stock was built and developed from the 1940s through the 1960s, a period of strong growth and prosperity for the city. Today, these homes add character and architectural interest, with styles ranging from classic ranch-style houses to timeless bungalows.

The Best Neighborhoods to Live in Pasadena, CA

Though the city is residential, its neighborhoods are as varied as the people who call them home. It’s worth taking the time to explore what each one has to offer if you want to find your perfect match. Let’s take a closer look at some of Pasadena’s most popular neighborhoods.

• Madison Heights – A southern Pasadena gem with stunning mountain views, Madison Heights is the very picture of a residential neighborhood, with walkable streets, family-owned shops, and a reputable school (Allendale Elementary). It offers quick access to other parts of Pasadena with good public transportation and is just a few minutes from several freeways if you want to travel to Los Angeles. While single-family homes are the most common property in this locale, you’ll also find condos, apartments, and townhomes.
  
  
• Bungalow Heaven – Situated in northeastern Pasadena, Bungalow Heaven is a neighborhood spanning 125 acres. It’s one of the most desirable districts in Pasadena, and from its name, it’s easy to guess why: charming bungalows line its streets. These are homes with beautiful historic features and provide around 1,500 square feet of space. Despite the demand for homes in this area, prices are not much higher than the average Pasadena, CA home for sale. Among its many attractions is the tranquil McDonald Park at the center of the neighborhood.
  
  
• Old Town – Although this neighborhood has a reputation for attracting a younger crowd, Old Town’s appeal is universal. It’s also one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city and one of the busiest and liveliest districts, with trendy restaurants, bars, and pubs dotting its pedestrian-friendly streets. Its housing stock is predominantly condos and classic brick apartment buildings.
  
  
• Daisy Villa – Those looking for a family-friendly locale will find that Daisy Villa ticks all the boxes. This neighborhood is situated in eastern Pasadena and is known for its tree-lined streets, plentiful green spaces, and an array of bungalows and Spanish-style homes. The Victory Park Farmers Market is held here on weekends.
  
  
• San Rafael Hills – San Rafael Hills is an affluent neighborhood with several properties built around the 1940s. Its northern section is known for spacious Mid-century-style estates with expansive lots, lush greenery, winding streets, and beautiful views of the hills. Many properties here are typically priced at the higher end of the Pasadena housing market. However, the neighborhood’s southern section provides more modest homes at considerably more modest prices.
  
  

LIVING IN PASADENA, CA

Large walkable streets, small-town charm, and modern amenities make Pasadena the perfect area for residents looking to enjoy the beauty of Los Angeles County without the congestion of its busier cities.

Cost of living

If you’re planning to move to California, then you should know that the cost of living in California is higher than the US average. However, despite this, Pasadena offers compelling advantages that many residents find are well worth the higher costs. These include an enviable quality of life, the region’s Mediterranean climate, excellent schools, abundant cultural offerings, and a tight-knit community.

The cost of living in Pasadena is about 61% higher than the national average, this is primarily attributed to the cost of housing. Transportation costs are also above the national norm, but other costs such as utilities and groceries are on par or only just above the national average. One area where you’ll be much better off is health care which costs less than in other parts of California and much less than the national average.

Employment and business opportunities

Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a professional looking to further your career, Pasadena offers fertile ground to thrive and grow. It’s an incredible place for both employment and business opportunities, with a diverse economy bolstered by its biggest industries, which include technology and education. Among the city’s major employers, you’ll find CalTech, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and Parsons Corporations.

On the business front, Pasadena has a dynamic ecosystem for entrepreneurs and startups. The city’s supportive, business-friendly environment and abundant resources make it an ideal launching pad for those planning to start new ventures.

Education

Living in Pasadena offers numerous advantages for families with school-age children. The city is served by the Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD), an educational system that caters to over 14,000 students across various grade levels.

The top public schools in the area include:

• Hamilton Elementary School
• Webster Elementary School
• Henry W. Longfellow Elementary School
• San Rafael Elementary School
• Willard Elementary School
• Marshall Fundamental School
• McKinley School
• Pasadena High School
• Blair High School
• John Muir High School

For private school options, there are many highly-rated institutions within the city, such as:

• Sequoyah School
• Westridge School
• EF Academy Pasadena
• Fusion Academy Pasadena Downtown
• La Salle High School
• Polytechnic School
• Pasadena Christian School
• St. Philip The Apostle School

Those relocating to Pasadena for college or planning ahead for their children’s future can choose from several institutions, including one of the top universities in California.

California Institute of Technology, or Caltech, is located in Pasadena and consistently ranks within the top ten universities worldwide. It enrolls more than 1,000 undergraduate students and over 1,200 graduate students, with standout programs in computer science, mechanical engineering, physics, and other STEM-related courses.

Other notable universities in Pasadena include Art Center College of Design, a university with undergraduate programs in film, fine art, and product design. Fuller Theological Seminary, a pioneering Christian graduate educational institution offers an integrated curriculum for future religious leaders.

Historic and cultural attractions

History, sports, and art are all essential parts of Pasadena’s culture, offering residents a variety of interesting attractions to enjoy.

• The Rose Bowl Stadium | 1001 Rose Bowl Drive
  
  The Rose Bowl Stadium, established in 1922, holds a significant place in Pasadena’s history as the host of the Tournament of Roses, UCLA Bruin Football games, five Super Bowl matches, and various music concerts. Recognized as both a National Historic Landmark and a California Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, it has a seating capacity of 92,542, making it the 11th largest stadium in the United States.
  
  
• The Gamble House | 4 Westmoreland Place
  
  Renowned for its 20th-century Craftsman architecture, this preserved home is one of Pasadena’s many architectural and historic gems. The house was designed by the prominent architectural firm Greene and Greene in 1908-1909 as a winter residence for David B. Gamble and his wife Mary. Fans of the movie “Back to the Future” will recognize it as Doc Brown’s house. Group guided tours are available on select days of the week.
  
  
• The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens | 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino
  
  While technically located in San Marino, The Huntington is a cultural and research center that sits closely on the borders of Pasadena, making it an easy destination for residents to visit. Spanning over 200 acres, it houses a library, museum, and gardens of immense historic and cultural significance. Visitors can spend an entire day exploring its iconic pieces like Thomas Gainsborough’s “The Blue Boy” and the Gutenberg Bible. Don’t forget to indulge in a delightful experience in the tea room during your visit.
  
  

Dining

Pasadena has a fascinating dining scene, with a selection of diverse cuisines and culinary delights that cater to every palate.

• UOVO – UOVO, located in Hastings Ranch, offers a rustic ambiance to enjoy its delicious traditional Italian food. UOVO’s handmade pasta is sourced directly from the restaurant’s kitchen in Bologna, Italy, making the dining experience as authentic as it gets.
  
  
• The Arbour – The Arbour is a farm-to-table fine dining establishment with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and Californian cuisine. Founded by chef Ian Gresik and his wife, Nancy Gresik, the restaurant offers a selection of craft cocktails and local wines. Conveniently located near The Shops on Lake Avenue, it’s an ideal spot for a full day of shopping and dining.
  
  
• Colette – Helmed by chef Peter Lai, Colette specializes in Cantonese cuisine, with a menu that fuses timeless classics with modern dishes. Recommended dishes include their char siu pork, crispy honey shrimp, and crispy stuffed chicken. Some of their best-selling dishes require meticulous preparation, so it’s advisable to pre-order.
  
  
• Saucy Chick Goat Mafia – This beloved eatery offers generous portions at great prices. But what sets them apart is their unique fusion of Mexican and Indian flavors, a combination that is just as flavorful and delicious as it sounds. Their must-tries include their birria burritos and tacos. Wash this down with their specialty drinks such as the Chiki Chiki Boom Boom, a mango-passionfruit tropical water.
  
  
• Old Sasoon Bakery – Named after an Armenian village, Old Sasoon Bakery has been a fixture in Pasadena since 1986. The bakery is the perfect place to indulge in Middle Eastern goods from flaky baklava to freshly baked flatbreads and savory beoregs.
  
  

Shopping

Whether you’re on the hunt for vintage gems, want to buy gifts for friends and family, or are simply looking for an excuse to enjoy Pasadena’s beautiful architecture, shopping is a fantastic way to get to know the city.

South Lake Avenue, or The Shops on Lake Avenue, is a 10-block shopping district with European-inspired architecture and walkable streets, where shoppers can indulge in upscale eateries and retailers.

Old Pasadena immerses you in Pasadena’s more traditional side. Over the course of 22 blocks, shoppers can browse more than 200 establishments ranging from clothing boutiques to art galleries. This district carries plenty of familiar, big-name brands like Guess and Tiffany & Co., but it also has a selection of local stores that can be found “Only in Old Pas,” including the second-hand clothing store 2nd Street, sustainable apparel shop Allbirds, and several pastry shops and jewelry stores.

Those looking for serious bargains and unique finds can shop to their heart’s content at the Rose Bowl Flea Market, held every 2nd Sunday of the month at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium. With over 2,500 vendors, attendees can find a wide array of items including specialty crafts, art, antique gems, jewelry, and one-of-a-kind vintage clothes. Regular admission is $12 per person, while VIP admission is available for $20. Children under 12 years old enjoy complimentary entry.

DISCOVER PASADENA, CA HOMES FOR SALE WITH ROBBYN BATTLES

A little more interested in Pasadena, CA? Turn to a seasoned real estate professional who knows the neighborhood inside and out.

With over 30 years of industry experience, a strong community presence, and a commitment to personalized support, Robbyn Battles and her team ensure a successful real estate journey for each client in Pasadena and the surrounding areas.

Let Robbyn Battles guide you through the finest Pasadena, CA homes for sale. Give us a call at 818.388.1631 or send us an email here.