Historic and Charming

Neighborhood Overview: San Marino is an affluent and picturesque city in Los Angeles County, known for its elegant homes, expansive lots, and well-manicured streets. Founded in 1913, the city was designed as a residential community with an emphasis on preserving its serene and upscale character. San Marino is often associated with its top-rated schools, historic estates, and proximity to cultural landmarks like The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens.

Average Home Price: $3,200,000
Average Home Size: 3,500 sq. ft.
Average $/Square Foot: $914

School District: San Marino Unified School District, consistently ranked among the best in California. The district is known for its excellent academics, high graduation rates, and strong community involvement.

Walkability: Moderate; While San Marino is predominantly residential, its well-planned layout makes it relatively easy to walk or bike around the neighborhood. The city’s quiet streets and proximity to parks and local amenities contribute to its overall walkability.

Local Amenities:

• The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens: A world-renowned cultural and educational institution featuring extensive art collections, rare books, and beautifully landscaped gardens. It is a major attraction in the area.
• Lacy Park: A 30-acre park offering open green spaces, walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds, providing a tranquil setting for residents.
• San Gabriel Country Club: A historic golf club offering exclusive memberships and a challenging 18-hole course.

Home Styles: San Marino is known for its stately homes, many of which are historic and feature architectural styles such as Colonial Revival, Spanish Colonial, and English Tudor. The homes are often set back on large, well-maintained lots with mature trees and lush landscaping.

Community Vibe: San Marino exudes a quiet elegance and exclusivity, with a strong sense of community and pride in maintaining the neighborhood’s historic and refined character. The city is known for its low crime rate, excellent public services, and active community organizations that foster a close-knit atmosphere.

Gated Communities: San Marino does not have traditional gated communities as seen in other affluent areas. However, the entire city functions much like a gated community in terms of its exclusivity, privacy, and well-maintained environment. The city's strict zoning laws and emphasis on preserving its residential character contribute to a secure and private atmosphere that is highly sought after by residents.

Neighborhood Overview: Hancock Park is a historic and prestigious neighborhood in central Los Angeles, known for its grand, early 20th-century homes and tree-lined streets. The neighborhood was developed in the 1920s and has retained much of its original charm, making it one of the most sought-after residential areas in the city. Many of the homes are set on large lots, offering a sense of space and privacy in the heart of Los Angeles.

Average Home Price: $2,900,000
Average Home Size: 3,500 sq. ft.
Average $/Square Foot: $829

School District: Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), with several nearby private schools that are highly regarded, including Marlborough School and The Buckley School.

Walkability: High; Hancock Park is a highly walkable neighborhood, with well-maintained sidewalks, close proximity to Larchmont Village, and easy access to local shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Local Amenities:

• Wilshire Country Club: A private golf club offering members access to an 18-hole course, tennis courts, and social events.
• Larchmont Village: A charming shopping district just outside Hancock Park, known for its boutique stores, cafes, and a popular farmers market.
• Los Angeles Tennis Club: A historic tennis club offering courts, swimming, and a range of social activities.

Home Styles: Hancock Park is renowned for its historic homes, with architectural styles including Spanish Colonial Revival, Tudor, and Mediterranean. Many homes have been carefully preserved or restored, maintaining the neighborhood’s distinctive character.

Community Vibe: Hancock Park offers a blend of historic elegance and modern convenience. The neighborhood is known for its tight-knit community, with active homeowner associations that work to preserve the area’s unique character and charm. Residents enjoy a peaceful, suburban-like atmosphere in close proximity to the city’s amenities.

Gated Communities: None. Hancock Park is characterized by its historic mansions and large lots, but it is not known for gated communities. The neighborhood is more open, with a focus on preserving the historic character of the area.

Neighborhood Overview: Larchmont, often associated with Larchmont Village, is a quaint and highly desirable residential area located within the broader Hancock Park and Windsor Square neighborhoods. Known for its charming, village-like atmosphere, Larchmont offers a blend of historic homes, tree-lined streets, and a close-knit community feel. The area around Larchmont Village is particularly popular for its walkability and easy access to boutique shopping, cafes, and local amenities.

Average Home Price: $2,700,000
Average Home Size: 3,000 sq. ft.
Average $/Square Foot: $900

School District: Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), with several nearby private schools such as Marlborough School and The Buckley School.

Walkability: High; Larchmont is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Los Angeles, particularly around Larchmont Village, where residents can enjoy a variety of shops, cafes, and a weekly farmers market.

Local Amenities:

• Larchmont Village: A popular shopping and dining district with a mix of boutique stores, cafes, and restaurants, contributing to the neighborhood’s village-like atmosphere.
• Los Angeles Tennis Club: A historic tennis club offering courts, swimming, and a range of social activities, located nearby in Hancock Park.
• Windsor Square-Hancock Park Historical Society: An organization that works to preserve the historic character of the area, offering tours and events.

Home Styles: The Larchmont area features a variety of historic homes, including Craftsman bungalows, Spanish Colonial Revival, and Tudor-style houses. Many of these homes have been carefully preserved or restored, maintaining the neighborhood’s historic charm.

Community Vibe: Larchmont is known for its warm, village-like atmosphere and strong sense of community. The neighborhood attracts a mix of families, professionals, and retirees who value the area’s historic character and walkability.

Gated Communities: Larchmont does not have traditional gated communities. However, the area’s historic charm, combined with its close-knit community and well-maintained environment, creates a private and exclusive feel, particularly in the adjacent Hancock Park and Windsor Square areas.

South Pasadena: Neighborhood Overview

Neighborhood Overview: South Pasadena is a charming and historic city located just northeast of Downtown Los Angeles. Known for its small-town feel, South Pasadena is a highly desirable area with a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and beautifully preserved historic homes. The city is often recognized for its tree-lined streets, vibrant arts scene, and an abundance of parks and green spaces.

Average Home Price: $1,500,000
Average Home Size: 2,000 sq. ft.
Average $/Square Foot: $750

School District: South Pasadena Unified School District, known for its top-rated schools, including South Pasadena High School, which is consistently ranked among the best in the state.

Walkability: High; South Pasadena is very walkable, with a charming downtown area that includes cafes, boutiques, and the historic Rialto Theatre. The city’s layout encourages walking and biking, with many amenities easily accessible.

Local Amenities:

• Garfield Park: A popular community park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and open green spaces.
• Rialto Theatre: A historic movie theater that is a beloved landmark in South Pasadena.
• South Pasadena Farmers Market: Held weekly, this market is a favorite among residents, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and live music.

Home Styles: South Pasadena is known for its well-preserved historic homes, including Craftsman bungalows, Spanish Revival, and Victorian styles. The architecture reflects the city’s rich history and commitment to preservation.

Community Vibe: South Pasadena exudes a small-town charm with a close-knit community feel. The city is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, strong civic engagement, and a focus on maintaining its historic character and natural beauty.

Gated Communities: None. South Pasadena is known for its small-town charm and historic homes, with a focus on community and preservation. The neighborhood does not have gated communities, and the streets are designed to be open and walkable.

Neighborhood Overview: Pasadena is a culturally rich and historic city located northeast of Downtown Los Angeles. Known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Rose Bowl and the Pasadena Playhouse, the city offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban sophistication. Pasadena is home to a diverse population, a thriving arts scene, and numerous educational institutions, making it one of the most desirable places to live in the greater Los Angeles area.

Average Home Price: $1,200,000
Average Home Size: 2,200 sq. ft.
Average $/Square Foot: $545

School District: Pasadena Unified School District, along with several prestigious private schools, including Westridge School and Polytechnic School.

Walkability: High; Pasadena is a highly walkable city, especially in areas like Old Pasadena and the Playhouse District, where residents can enjoy a wide range of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.

Local Amenities:

• The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens: A world-renowned cultural institution featuring extensive art collections, rare books, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Rose Bowl Stadium: A historic venue that hosts major sporting events, concerts, and the famous Rose Parade.
• Old Pasadena: A vibrant shopping and dining district with historic architecture and a lively atmosphere.

Home Styles: Pasadena is known for its eclectic mix of architectural styles, including Craftsman bungalows, Spanish Colonial Revival, and Mid-Century Modern homes. The city’s neighborhoods each have their own distinct character, reflecting its long history and commitment to preservation.

Community Vibe: Pasadena offers a sophisticated yet relaxed lifestyle, with a strong sense of community and pride in its cultural heritage. The city attracts a diverse population, from families to young professionals and retirees, all drawn to its unique blend of urban and suburban living.

Gated Communities: Limited. Pasadena, particularly in areas like San Rafael and Linda Vista, may have a few private streets or small gated enclaves, but traditional gated communities are rare. The city is known more for its historic homes and open neighborhoods.

Neighborhood Overview: West Adams is a historic neighborhood in South Los Angeles known for its rich architectural heritage and diverse community. The area has seen significant revitalization in recent years, with many of its historic homes being restored to their former glory. West Adams is celebrated for its beautiful Craftsman and Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and a vibrant arts and culture scene.

Average Home Price: $1,100,000
Average Home Size: 1,700 sq. ft.
Average $/Square Foot: $647

School District: Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), with several nearby schools and access to charter schools.

Walkability: Moderate; West Adams has a mix of residential and commercial areas, with local amenities, shops, and restaurants within walking distance in certain parts of the neighborhood.

Local Amenities:

• West Adams Heritage Association: An organization dedicated to preserving the historic character of the neighborhood, offering tours and events.
• Adams Coffee Shop: A popular local spot known for its community vibe and artisanal coffee.
• Expo Line: The Metro Expo Line runs through West Adams, providing convenient access to Downtown Los Angeles and Santa Monica.

Home Styles: West Adams is known for its historic Craftsman bungalows, Victorian homes, and Spanish Revival houses. Many of these homes have been meticulously restored, preserving the neighborhood’s historic charm while accommodating modern living.

Community Vibe: West Adams has a vibrant and diverse community, with a strong focus on preserving its historic character. The neighborhood is known for its active community organizations, cultural events, and a growing arts scene, making it an exciting place to live.

Gated Communities: None. West Adams is known for its historic architecture and diverse community, but it does not feature gated communities. The neighborhood has a mix of residential and commercial areas that are generally open and accessible.

Neighborhood Overview: Highland Park is a historic and eclectic neighborhood in Northeast Los Angeles known for its vibrant arts scene, historic homes, and diverse community. The neighborhood has become increasingly popular in recent years, attracting artists, young professionals, and families looking for a blend of urban living and historic charm. Highland Park is known for its lively atmosphere, with trendy cafes, boutiques, and galleries lining the streets.

Average Home Price: $1,000,000
Average Home Size: 1,500 sq. ft.
Average $/Square Foot: $667

School District: Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), with several public and charter schools serving the area.

Walkability: High; Highland Park is a walkable neighborhood, particularly along York Boulevard and Figueroa Street, where residents can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.

Local Amenities:

• Highland Park Bowl: A historic bowling alley that has been restored to its former glory, now a popular spot for food, drinks, and bowling.
• Occidental College (nearby in Eagle Rock): A prestigious liberal arts college that contributes to the cultural and intellectual atmosphere of the area.
• Hermon Park: A popular green space offering walking trails, playgrounds, and community events.

Home Styles: Highland Park features a mix of historic Craftsman bungalows, Victorian homes, and Mid-Century Modern houses. The neighborhood’s architecture reflects its long history and the ongoing revitalization efforts by residents.

Community Vibe: Highland Park has a lively and eclectic vibe, with a strong sense of community and cultural pride. The neighborhood is known for its artistic spirit, with frequent community events, art walks, and a thriving local business scene.

Gated Communities: None. Highland Park is known for its eclectic and artistic community, with a focus on historic homes and a vibrant street life. There are no gated communities in this area, as the neighborhood values openness and accessibility.