Altadena, CA Condos for Sale

Altadena’s housing stock is dominated by single-family homes and historic estates, so condos make up a very small share of local listings — often less than 5% of all active properties. When condos do appear, they’re typically small clusters or converted mid-century buildings near the Pasadena border. Buyers seeking a foothill lifestyle with lower maintenance can find them, but inventory is limited and competition can be strong when a well-priced unit hits the market.

Most condos in Altadena are found along the southern edge near Pasadena, especially close to Lake Avenue, Lincoln Avenue, and Woodbury Road. These areas were historically zoned for higher density and are within easier reach of urban amenities. You might also find small, newer developments tucked near the foothill corridor, but those are rare because much of Altadena’s land is zoned for single-family use or sits within hillside overlay zones that restrict large multifamily projects.

Altadena’s condos generally cost less per square foot than Pasadena’s — but only slightly. Because supply is so tight, well-renovated units can still approach Pasadena pricing. Expect median condo prices to hover around the mid-$600Ks to low-$700Ks in 2025, depending on size and amenities. That’s often 10–15% below comparable Pasadena listings, yet higher than neighboring unincorporated areas like East Pasadena or Altadena Heights.

Yes, but with caveats. Condos here can provide a more affordable entry point into the foothill market without the upkeep of a detached house. However, limited inventory and competition mean buyers need to act quickly. HOA fees are typically modest (averaging $350–$600/month), and most complexes maintain strong reserves because they’re small, owner-run associations. Buyers should also verify insurance coverage, especially post-Eaton Fire, since proximity to the wildland-urban interface affects premiums and requirements.

Surprisingly, yes. Because Altadena rises into the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, even two-story condo complexes can enjoy dramatic views. Some developments integrate private balconies or small patios that frame Mount Lowe or Echo Canyon. While not every building has direct trail access, it’s often less than a five-minute drive to popular hiking spots — one of the biggest perks of condo living here compared with more urban L.A. neighborhoods.

Very few. Strict county zoning, hillside protection ordinances, and limited available parcels make new multifamily construction difficult. Most new listings you’ll see are renovated or repurposed units, not brand-new builds. That said, there’s growing interest in adaptive reuse projects, where small commercial structures or older duplexes are converted into modern condominiums. If future zoning adjustments occur — especially to boost post-fire housing supply — new condo projects could emerge, but for now, they’re the exception, not the rule.