Pasadena

 

This community is an incredible combination of historical preservation and cutting-edge devotion to sustainability. The abundance of green space and friendly atmosphere gives Pasadena a hometown feel. It’s incredibly family-friendly, full of opportunity, and laden with charm.

Beginning in the late 1800s, Pasadena boomed as a resort town. Beautiful hotels were built, and wealthy Easterners treated Pasadena as their winter escape. Then, during World War II, the city was given another boost when high-tech and scientific companies moved to the area to support the Pacific War efforts. To this day, these companies continue to make Pasadena a hub of technology and business.

Pasadena is well-known for its architecture, primarily because it’s the home of architectural leader Greene & Greene. Thanks to the city’s preservation efforts, there are still a large number of California craftsman-style homes from the 19th and early-20th centuries. With smaller single-family homes, quaint condos, and grand estates on larger lots, there is something in Pasadena to fit most budgets and lifestyles.

 

 

 

 

Pasadena is celebrated for its rich cultural ancestry and iconic landmarks. The Rose Bowl Stadium, home to the annual Rose Bowl Game and the historic Tournament of Roses Parade, stands as a symbol of the city’s enduring community spirit. For art enthusiasts, the Norton Simon Museum houses one of the most impressive collections in Southern California, featuring works by Van Gogh, Degas, and Picasso.

 

Nature lovers can explore the Arlington Garden, a three-acre public garden known for its Mediterranean and native plant landscapes. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens are also local treasures, offering sprawling gardens, rare manuscripts, and European art.

 

In Old Pasadena, a historic district brimming with shops, cafes, and nightlife, visitors can experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Pasadena Playhouse, California’s official state theater, continues to host acclaimed productions, preserving its legacy as a cornerstone of the arts.

 

Dining & Entertainment

Pasadena’s dining scene seamlessly blends refined elegance with local charm. The Raymond 1886, located in a restored Victorian cottage, serves contemporary American fare paired with innovative cocktails. For upscale dining, Union Restaurant offers farm-to-table Italian dishes, while Maestro delights with modern Mexican cuisine.

 

Casual options include Lucky Baldwin’s Pub, known for its British-style ales, and Pie ‘n Burger, a local institution since 1963 serving classic burgers and handmade pies. Coffee enthusiasts flock to Intelligentsia Coffee in Old Pasadena for artisanal brews.

 

For entertainment, the Pasadena Civic Auditorium hosts concerts, ballets, and theater productions, while the Ice House Comedy Club is one of the nation’s oldest comedy venues, featuring both legendary and up-and-coming comedians.

 

Parks & Recreation

Pasadena is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide array of parks, gardens, and hiking trails. The Arroyo Seco area, encompassing the Rose Bowl Stadium, is a hub for recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and picnicking. The Arroyo Seco Trail itself offers scenic views along the seasonal stream and connects to several other trails for longer hikes.

 

For those seeking more challenging terrain, the Eaton Canyon Natural Area features a popular trail leading to a waterfall, while the Sam Merrill Trail rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas of the San Gabriel Valley. Families often frequent Brookside Park, which features playgrounds, picnic areas, and the Kidspace Children’s Museum.

 

Nature lovers will also appreciate the Descanso Gardens, located nearby in La Cañada Flintridge, featuring themed botanical gardens and seasonal events. Whether you’re looking to hike, enjoy family-friendly spaces, or simply soak in the natural beauty, Pasadena’s outdoor offerings cater to a variety of interests.

 

Schools & Education

Pasadena is known for its strong educational institutions, appealing to families seeking quality schooling. The city is served by the Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD), which includes highly regarded schools such as Pasadena High School, known for its Visual Arts and Design Academy, and Marshall Fundamental School, celebrated for its rigorous college-preparatory curriculum.

 

For higher education, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), a world-renowned research university, calls Pasadena home. Caltech’s influence contributes to the city’s intellectual vibrancy and attracts global talent. Another esteemed institution, Pasadena City College (PCC), offers robust academic programs and serves as a gateway to four-year universities.

 

Private schools such as Westridge School for Girls, Polytechnic School, and Mayfield Senior School offer elite educational experiences, often ranking among the best in the region. Pasadena’s commitment to education ensures a variety of options, from public to private, catering to diverse academic needs.

 

Local Culture

Pasadena’s culture is a vibrant blend of tradition, creativity, and community spirit. The city hosts the world-famous Tournament of Roses Parade, an annual event showcasing elaborate floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units. The Rose Bowl Game, held on the same day, is a college football classic drawing national attention.

 

Art and culture thrive at the Norton Simon Museum and Pasadena Museum of California Art, where rotating exhibits highlight both classical and contemporary works. The Playhouse District is another cultural hub, home to the Pasadena Playhouse, which hosts innovative theater productions.

 

The city’s creative spirit is also expressed through annual events like the Pasadena Chalk Festival, where local artists transform sidewalks into vibrant masterpieces. Community-driven initiatives, such as the Armory Center for the Arts, provide art education and outreach, fostering a supportive atmosphere for emerging talents.

 

Pasadena’s cultural landscape is diverse and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on arts, community engagement, and preserving its historic roots. This blend of tradition and modernity creates a unique, lively environment that attracts residents and visitors alike.

 

Real Estate and Housing

Pasadena offers a diverse range of housing options, including single-family homes, condos, and apartments. The median home size is approximately 1,500 square feet, with the average lot size around 7,500 square feet, providing ample space for families and individuals alike.

 

The city's architectural styles are varied and distinctive. Craftsman bungalows, characterized by their handcrafted woodwork and attention to detail, are prevalent. Spanish Colonial Revival homes, with their stucco walls and red-tiled roofs, add a touch of historic charm. Mid-century modern designs offer sleek, functional living spaces, while contemporary designs provide cutting-edge aesthetics and modern conveniences.

 

Notable neighborhoods in Pasadena each have their own unique appeal. Old Pasadena is a historic district featuring Victorian and art deco buildings, blending the old with the new. San Rafael is an affluent area known for its large estates and luxurious homes. Bungalow Heaven is celebrated for its Craftsman-style homes from the early 20th century, offering a glimpse into Pasadena's architectural past. Madison Heights combines historic and modern homes, providing a diverse living environment.

 

Housing costs in Pasadena reflect its desirability. The median home value is $1,178,497 as of May 2024, with average rents for a two-bedroom apartment ranging from $2,500 to $3,000 per month.