Welcome to Pasadena
A sun-soaked suburb with a traditional, East Coast feel
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.
What to Love
- The world-famous Rose Bowl
- Dozens of hiking trails for all levels
- Incredible shopping and dining in quaint Old Pasadena
People & Lifestyle
Quiet and friendly, Pasadena has a hometown, artistic feel despite the fact that it’s a metropolitan hub. The thriving job sector includes engineering, pharmaceutical, medical, and tech companies, and the area also has a pull for those with a creative bent. Residents here are highly educated, and Pasadena is a wonderful place to raise a family. There is no shortage of things to do, and the city prides itself on its walkability, incredible public transportation system, and a plethora of events.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
Bursting with local shops, historic businesses, and neighborhood favorites, Pasadena’s commercial scene is one of the best in Southern California. No matter what you’re looking for, it’s likely you’ll find it here.
Stroll through Old Pasadena on Colorado Boulevard for a myriad of brand-name stores and boutiques, but the real charm of Pasadena shopping comes in out-of-the-way places. The Huntington Collection is a resale shop for antiques, and its proceeds are donated to local programs. Find flowers to brighten your home at Jacob Maarse, a local shop that has led the industry for almost half a century.
Dine in the California sunshine and enjoy a delicious farm-to-table meal at The Arbour. Another local favorite, Mi Piace, serves up lite Italian cuisine with a New York accent. Alexander's Steakhouse serves premium steaks with a Japanese twist. On a hot summer day, cool down with a stop by family-owned 21 Choices Frozen Yogurt. Whether you’re an avid coffee drinker or a casual sipper, you’ll find what you’re looking for with coffee shops like Urth Cafe, Lavender & Honey, and Art + Science Cafe.
Things to Do
If you walk down any of Pasadena’s beautiful tree-lined streets, you’re likely to bump into a historical place or an incredible art and cultural experience.
Pasadena Playhouse hosts various community events and professional productions where patrons can enjoy a night on the town. The Pasadena Chalk Festival brings hundreds of talented artists together to create masterful street art. Every January, people crowd the streets of Pasadena to watch the Rose Parade, but imagine being able to walk to the end of your block to see it! If you’re more into football than floats, get a ticket to the Rose Bowl Game (but do it now because it’s sold out every year since 1947).
Adjacent to the Rose Bowl, avid golfers will find the Brookside Golf Club, an incredible 36-hole complex in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Whether you recognize it from watching Back to the Future or as a paragon of design, Gamble House is a great place to explore art as architecture. Or, for a possibly less dignified experience, they also host events such as goat yoga. For even more inspiration, Norton Simon Museum offers guests a rich journey of art and history.
Historical Background
Pasadena was founded in 1874 by the Indiana Colony and later incorporated as a city in 1886. The name "Pasadena" is derived from a Chippewa word meaning "valley" or "of the valley." Over the years, Pasadena has grown into a city rich in culture and history, playing a significant role in Southern California's development.
Key historical events have shaped Pasadena's unique character. The establishment of the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in 1891 marked the city as a center for scientific and technological advancement. The first Rose Bowl game was hosted in Pasadena in 1902, starting a tradition that continues to draw visitors from around the world. In 1927, the construction of the iconic Pasadena City Hall added to the city's architectural heritage, becoming a landmark and symbol of civic pride.
Pasadena's architectural heritage is deeply influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, with notable contributions from architects such as Greene and Greene and Frank Lloyd Wright. The preservation of historic districts like Bungalow Heaven showcases the city's commitment to maintaining its architectural legacy.
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.
Real Estate Market Trends and Predictions
The recent market performance in Pasadena has been robust, with a 9.1% increase in home values over the past year. Homes spend an average of 28 days on the market, and 70.7% of homes sold above asking price in May 2024, indicating a competitive market.
Currently, Pasadena is experiencing a seller's market with low inventory and high demand. Multiple offer situations are common, with a median sale price of $1,200,000 in May 2024 and a median price per square foot of $748.
Several factors influence Pasadena's real estate market. Its proximity to Los Angeles makes it an attractive location for commuters. The strong local economy and job market, along with desirable school districts, contribute to high demand. Additionally, the city's cultural amenities and quality of life enhance its appeal.
Looking ahead, home prices in Pasadena are expected to continue appreciating, though at a slower pace. A forecasted 2.8% increase in home values is projected for 2024, with an additional 1.5% increase by the end of 2025. As inventory increases, there is potential for a more balanced market.
Historical and Architectural Landmarks
Pasadena is rich in architectural heritage, with several neighborhoods boasting unique and historically significant structures. For instance, the Landmark District of Historic Highlands is renowned for its grand historic homes, showcasing a variety of architectural styles such as Spanish Revivals, Craftsman, and Tudors. Markham Place, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is another notable area with a collection of early Pasadena architecture, from Queen Annes to Swiss Craftsman homes.
Local Events and Community Engagement
Pasadena is a hub for community activities and local events that foster a sense of belonging. The Rose Bowl Flea Market, a massive monthly event featuring thousands of vendors, and local farmers' markets, such as the one in Victory Park, are central to community life. These events not only provide shopping opportunities but also serve as gathering places for residents.
Green Spaces and Environmental Initiatives
Pasadena's commitment to sustainability is evident in its numerous parks and green initiatives. The city manages over a thousand acres of parkland, including the expansive Arroyo Seco area, which offers a variety of outdoor activities. Environmental conservation efforts are integral to the city’s policies, emphasizing the community's dedication to maintaining and enhancing its natural spaces.
Schools
Pasadena is home to excellent schools for all levels. Top educational opportunities include:
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